Tourexpi
IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) has announced the
expansion of its Regent brand in Japan with its first resort property, Regent
Karuizawa, set to open in 2028. The 58-key new-build onsen retreat will combine
contemporary luxury with the natural beauty of one of Japan’s most celebrated
mountain destinations.
A landmark project for Regent in Japan
Situated in the historic town of Karuizawa, just one
hour from Tokyo by Shinkansen, the resort will offer rooms and private villas
surrounded by forest, natural hot springs, and views of Mount Asama. The
design, led by acclaimed Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, is conceived as a
sanctuary of tranquillity, blending immersive nature with refined modern
aesthetics.
Guests will have access to a specialty restaurant with
valley views, curated bar and dining options, meeting spaces, and a wellness
centre that includes a signature spa, onsen facilities, and a gym.
Setting new standards in luxury hospitality
Abhijay Sandilya, Managing Director, Japan &
Micronesia, IHG Hotels & Resorts and CEO of IHG ANA Hotels Group Japan,
said:
“We are delighted to announce the addition of Regent
Karuizawa, our first Regent resort destination in Japan. Karuizawa is a special
location within easy reach of Tokyo, renowned for its natural beauty and
rejuvenating environment. Regent is the perfect brand for this site, enabling
us to create an immersive destination that harmonises tranquillity, exploration
and luxury.”
He added: “Inbound travel into Karuizawa has grown 30%
since 2019, underlining the town’s rising international appeal. Regent
Karuizawa will meet this demand by offering authentic cultural experiences
within the luxury space. Together with the under-construction Regent Kyoto, it
demonstrates the growing strength of our luxury and upper luxury portfolio in
Japan.”
Karuizawa: a year-round retreat
As one of Japan’s oldest and most famous mountain
resort towns, Karuizawa offers seasonal attractions from waterfalls and hiking
trails to ski resorts, golf courses, shopping and fine dining. The area has
long been favoured by the Japanese Imperial Family and is a popular destination
for holiday homes.
Growing the Regent brand in Japan
Regent Karuizawa will be the brand’s second opening in
Japan, following the upcoming Regent Kyoto, and joins IHG’s 55 open hotels and
17 pipeline properties across the country. It will sit alongside Hotel Indigo
Karuizawa, offering visitors a wide range of experiences in Nagano Prefecture.
Image
Credit: © IHG Hotels & Resorts
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