IHG Hotels & Resorts has broken ground on its largest new-build project in Japan, an 817-key triple-branded development near Universal Studios Japan, scheduled to open in 2029.
IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced the groundbreaking of its largest new-build hotel project in Japan, a triple-branded development located near Universal Studios Japan in Osaka. The project is being delivered in partnership with Sakurajima Kaihatsu LLC, a consortium led by Kajima Corporation together with JAPAN POST REAL ESTATE Co., Ltd., SMFL MIRAI Partners Company, Limited, and Keihanshin Building Co., Ltd.
The development, which will open in 2029, represents IHG’s first triple-branded hotel project in Japan and a significant growth milestone for the group. The riverside complex in Konohana-ku, Osaka, will comprise three adjoining hotels operating under the InterContinental, Kimpton and Holiday Inn Resort brands.
With a total of 817 keys, the hotels will be designated as official Universal Studios Japan partner hotels and are expected to be the only internationally branded properties in the immediate area. The site offers convenient access to Universal Studios Japan, Asia’s most-visited theme park. It is approximately 10 minutes by boat or road from the new integrated resort under development at Yumeshima.
Speaking at the groundbreaking, Abhijay Sandilya, Managing Director, Japan & Micronesia, IHG Hotels & Resorts and Chief Executive Officer of IHG ANA Hotels Group Japan, said, “IHG is honoured to extend our relationship with our valued partners – a consortium of four companies behind Sakurajima Kaihatsu LLC – and expand IHG’s footprint as an official hotel partner to Universal Studios Japan, Asia’s leading theme park. This agreement marks a significant milestone for IHG: our largest new-build hotel deal in Japan and our first triple-branded project in the country.
“As the only international hotel company operating in this area of Osaka, we can’t wait to introduce our InterContinental, Kimpton and Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts brands to guests, who will enjoy easy access to Universal Studios Japan while being within easy reach of its many neighbouring attractions, including the new integrated resort at Yumeshima.
“IHG’s growth continues apace in Japan, where we have 57 open hotels across 10 brands and 20 pipeline properties. This trio of exceptional new-build hotels will expand our current portfolio of 10 properties in Osaka and 12 in the wider Kansai region.”
Katsunori Ichihashi, Senior Executive Officer, General Manager, Real Estate Development Division, Kajima Corporation – the representative company among the four development partners said: “We’re delighted to announce IHG as an official hotel operator for USJ – the latest milestone in our major expansion of this area. Partnering with an international hotel group of the stature and reputation of IHG will significantly enhance our visitors’ experiences, as they savour everything our collaboration offers, including iconic hotels and the vibrant restaurant and bar scene we’re developing on the Osaka riverfront.
“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. 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.”