In his pursuit of a deeper understanding of urban design principles, Belfiore embarked on a journey to Japan in 2010, assuming the role of a researcher at the Kengo Kuma Lab within the University of Tokyo.

This experience proved profoundly enriching, under the tutelage of Kengo Kuma, a great master of contemporary architecture renowned for blending traditional Japanese spaces and aesthetics with the rigor of modernist approaches.

Opting to establish himself in Japan, Belfiore secured design positions at renowned Japanese international studios, including Nikken Sekkei (2013–2014) and Richard Bliah Associates (2014–2017).

[13] His background, combining extensive professional experience with a robust academic scholarship, has led to the development of an inventive design methodology.

[18][22][23] Other significant projects are Shinkin Central Bank Innovation Hub,[16] emphasizing modularity and flexibility in its design philosophy; the renovation and re-functionalization of the Italian Cultural Institute Tokyo Library by Gae Aulenti, where the fusion between Italian and Japanese cultures generates several functional zones tailored for diverse needs and harmonized through color symbolism;[24] and Cybernet Japan Headquarters, featuring a minimalist design inspired by Japanese dry gardens that integrates flexible and sustainable spaces.

[30][31] As a result of his work on behalf of Italian institutions and his design accomplishments, Belfiore was lastly honored in 2022 with the Order of the Star of Italy.