Tourexpi
IHG Hotels & Resorts has begun construction on its
biggest new-build hotel project in Japan, located near Universal Studios Japan
in Osaka. Developed in partnership with Sakurajima Kaihatsu LLC, a consortium
led by Kajima Corporation, the waterfront project will bring together
InterContinental, Kimpton and Holiday Inn Resort in a single, adjoining
development.
Major milestone for IHG in Japan
The groundbreaking in Konohana-ku marks IHG’s first
triple-branded hotel project in Japan and a significant expansion of its
presence in the country. Scheduled to open in 2029, the development will
comprise 817 rooms and become an official hotel complex for Universal Studios
Japan. It will also be the only internationally branded hotel offering in the
immediate area, just 10 minutes by boat or road from the new integrated resort
on Yumeshima.
Three brands, one destination
The project combines three distinct hospitality
concepts. InterContinental will deliver a luxury experience, Kimpton will
introduce its lifestyle-driven design and dining ethos, while Holiday Inn
Resort will cater to families and leisure travellers. Together, the hotels are
designed to offer direct access to Asia’s most visited theme park and a wide
range of dining, leisure and event facilities.
Abhijay Sandilya, Managing Director, Japan &
Micronesia, IHG Hotels & Resorts, described the agreement as a double
milestone: IHG’s largest new-build deal in Japan and its first triple-branded
development in the market. He highlighted Osaka’s strategic importance, noting
that the project will complement IHG’s existing portfolio in the city and the
wider Kansai region.
Strengthening Osaka’s tourism infrastructure
Kajima Corporation, representing the development
partners, said the collaboration with IHG would significantly enhance the
visitor experience in the Sakurajima area. The project forms part of a broader
transformation of the district, supported by new transport links, riverfront
development and proximity to Universal Studios Japan.
Part of a wider growth strategy
IHG currently operates 57 hotels across 10 brands in
Japan, with a further 20 properties in the pipeline. The Osaka triple-brand
project will expand IHG’s footprint in one of Japan’s most dynamic tourism
markets, reinforcing the city’s role as a gateway for domestic and
international travellers alike.
Image
Credit: © Courtesy of
Sakurajima Kaihatsu LLC
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