IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) has announced its biggest new-build hotel agreement in Japan, marking its first triple-branded hotel development there.
The partnership with Sakurajima Kaihatsu LLC, a consortium of four companies, will bring InterContinental, Kimpton and Holiday Inn Resort to the prime riverside location near Universal Studios Japan (USJ).
Once open in 2029, the trio of hotels will be USJ’s official Japan hotels, offering a total of 817 keys.
InterContinental Hotel will offer 244 keys, an all-day dining restaurant, lobby bar and lounge; Japanese-inspired thermal bathing experience, rooftop pool, gym and events space.
The 246-room Kimpton Hotel has a rooftop specialty restaurant, all-day dining restaurant, deli, gym, pool and event space as well.
Rounding up the trio is the family-friendly Holiday Inn Resort, with 327 rooms, deli, all-day dining restaurant, kids club, games room, indoor pool and kids’ pool.
The hotels’ location is also a 10-minute boat ride or drive from the new Integrated Resort in Yumeshima.
Turning Osaka into a ‘must-visit’
Surrounding infrastructure developments include the extension of JR Sakurajima Line and the opening of new ferry terminals, while Kansai International Airport recently increased its passenger capacity to 40 million annually following a major renovation of Terminal 1.
“We chose IHG and three of its differentiated brands to ensure we provide a wide selection of choices for visitors – from the world-famous luxury of InterContinental to the awe-inspiring experiences of Kimpton, through to the family friendly resort experience of Holiday Inn,” said Katsunori Ichihashi, senior executive officer, general manager, real estate development division, Kajima Corporation.
“The area, which is already very popular, has the potential to attract even more visitors. By building new infrastructure, adding attractions, introducing an integrated resort, and opening international branded hotels, we’re creating a must-visit destination for visitors, and a fresh experience for Japan.”