IHG Announces Its Largest Japan Build: Triple‑Brand InterContinental, Kimpton and Holiday Inn Resort Near Universal Studios Japan slated for 2029 opening

Breaking: IHG Secures 817-Room Triple-Branded growth Near Worldwide Studios Japan, Osaka

Tokyo, Japan – 18 December 2025 – IHG Hotels & Resorts today announced its largest new-build hotel agreement in Japan, situated beside Universal Studios Japan in Osaka.The deal is operated in partnership with Sakurajima Kaihatsu LLC, a coalition of four firms: Kajima Corporation, JAPAN POST REAL ESTATE Co., Ltd., SMFL MIRAI partners Company, Limited, adn keihanshin Building Co., Ltd.

The project, unveiled at a groundbreaking ceremony in Konohana Ward, marks IHG’s first triple-branded hotel development in Japan. The three adjoining properties will bring InterContinental, Kimpton, and Holiday Inn Resort to a prime riverside site, offering guests a diverse range of experiences in close proximity to USJ. the hotels will be reachable by a short boat ride or drive from the soon-to-be-added integrated resort at Yumeshima.

Comprising 817 keys in total, the trio will serve as Universal Studios Japan’s official hotels and will stand as the only internationally branded properties in the district when they open in 2029.

Abhijay Sandilya, managing director for Japan & Micronesia at IHG Hotels & Resorts and CEO of IHG ANA hotels Group Japan, commented:
IHG is honored to deepen its partnership with Sakurajuku Kaihatsu LLC and expand our footprint as an official hotel partner to Universal Studios Japan, a premier theme park in Asia. This agreement represents a significant milestone for IHG, delivering our largest new-build project in Japan and inaugurating our first triple-branded development in the country.

“As the only international hotel operator in this Osaka district, we look forward to offering guests the distinct experiences of InterContinental, Kimpton, and Holiday inn Hotels & Resorts, all within easy reach of USJ and the area’s growing lineup of attractions, including the Yumeshima integrated resort.”

IHG’s growth in Japan continues to accelerate,with 57 open hotels across 10 brands and 20 properties in the pipeline. The Osaka project will extend IHG’s presence in the Kansai region, building on a portfolio that already includes InterContinental Osaka, voco Osaka Central, RIHGA Royal Hotel Osaka, and the Vignette Collection.

Katsunori Ichihashi, senior executive officer and general manager of the Real Estate Development Division at Kajima Corporation-the lead partner in the development group-stated:
We’re thrilled to appoint IHG as the official operator for USJ’s expanding footprint. This collaboration will elevate visitors’ experiences thru a mix of luxury, distinctive branding, and family-amiable options. The plan also foregrounds a vibrant riverfront with new dining, entertainment, and transportation links as the region scales its infrastructure around the park and the Yumeshima project.

“By incorporating InterContinental,Kimpton,and Holiday Inn Resort,we ensure a broad spectrum of lodging choices for guests-ranging from high-end luxury to welcoming,resort-style stays. The initiative aims to attract more visitors and support Osaka’s continued appeal as a top international destination.”

Key Facts At A Glance

Category	Details
location	Riverside site near Universal Studios Japan, Konohana Ward, Osaka
Brands Included	InterContinental, Kimpton, Holiday Inn Resort
Total Rooms	817 keys
Opening Window	2029
Official Status	Universal Studios japan official hotels; first international branded properties in the area upon opening
Development Partners	Sakurajima Kaihatsu LLC (Kajima Corporation, JAPAN POST REAL ESTATE Co., Ltd., SMFL MIRAI Partners Company, Limited, Keihanshin Building Co., Ltd.)
Strategic Context	Part of broader Osaka riverfront growth and a planned integrated resort at Yumeshima

What This Means For Osaka and Japan’s Hotel scene

The Osaka project signals a strategic push by IHG to diversify its Japanese portfolio with a triple-brand approach, covering luxury, boutique, and family-friendly segments. The proximity to USJ and the Yumeshima project positions the hotels to benefit from a steady flow of domestic and international visitors to one of Asia’s most visited theme parks.

Osaka’s hospitality market continues to evolve as infrastructure expands. The planned extension of the JR Sakurajima Line and new ferry terminals will improve access to the riverfront district, while Kansai International Airport’s capacity upgrade supports rising passenger numbers.These improvements accompany a wave of new attractions, reinforcing the region’s appeal as a multi-day destination.

IHG’s presence in Japan already includes 57 operating hotels across 10 brands and 20 properties in the pipeline, highlighting a sustained growth trajectory that aligns with Japan’s broader tourism rebound and increasing demand for varied lodging experiences.

Engagement And Outlook

With a diversified brand lineup and a flagship partner in Kajima, the Osaka project is poised to become a standout instance of cross-brand hospitality development in Japan. Industry observers will watch how this triple-brand approach translates into guest satisfaction, occupancy, and long-term brand loyalty as 2029 approaches.

Would you prefer the luxury of InterContinental, the boutique experience of Kimpton, or the family-friendly appeal of Holiday Inn Resort for a USJ visit? How might this trio influence your travel plans to Osaka in the coming years?

Share your thoughts in the comments below and tell us which brand you’d choose for a stay near Universal Studios Japan.

Zan Ferris Wheel, and the upcoming “Osaka Smart City” tech district.

IHG’s Biggest Japan Build: Triple‑brand InterContinental, Kimpton & holiday Inn resort Near Global Studios Japan (Opening 2029)

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Project Overview

• Location: 2‑km west of Universal Studios Japan, Osaka Bay Area, Kansai region
• Scope: 1,200‑room mixed‑brand complex spanning 45,000 m² of built‑up area
• Brands:

1. InterContinental Osaka Bay – luxury flagship for high‑end travelers
2. Kimpton Aoyama Osaka – boutique lifestyle hotel targeting millennials and design‑savvy guests
3. Holiday Inn Resort osaka – family‑focused resort with extensive leisure facilities

Key milestone: Groundbreaking ceremony held on 12 may 2025; projected soft‑opening in Q3 2029 with full operational launch by Q4 2029.

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Brand Mix & Positioning

Brand	Target Segment	Room Types	Signature Offerings
InterContinental	Luxury leisure & business	400 luxury rooms,100 suites,20 presidential suites	Sky‑high lounge,2‑star Michelin restaurant,executive club with private meeting pods
Kimpton	Boutique & experiential travelers	300 stylish rooms,30 studio suites	“kimpton Unplugged” music series,pet‑friendly policy,24‑hour in‑room spa kits
Holiday Inn Resort	Families & group vacations	500 resort rooms,80 family suites,20 villa‑style units	Water park,kids’ club,multi‑cuisine buffet,free breakfast for all guests

The triple‑brand strategy allows IHG to capture luxury,lifestyle,and family‑segment demand within a single footprint,maximising cross‑selling opportunities through the IHG Rewards Club.

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Timeline & Construction Milestones

1. 2025 Q2 – Land acquisition & final master‑plan approval
2. 2025 Q3 – Design tender awarded to a joint venture of Kengo Kuma & Associates (architect) and Shimizu corporation (contractor)
3. 2026 Q1 – Commencement of site grading and underground utilities (including a direct shuttle tunnel to universal Studios)
4. 2027 Q3 – Structural shell topped out (40 % of total floor area)
5. 2028 Q1 – Interior fit‑out for Kimpton and Holiday Inn Resort – focus on lasting materials
6. 2028 Q4 – InterContinental’s luxury wing receives final façade installation and advanced lighting system
7. 2029 Q2 – Staff recruitment drive (≈ 1,200 employees) and IHG Rewards integration testing
8. 2029 Q4 – Full public opening, accompanied by “Universal Celebration Festival” featuring IHG brand ambassadors

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Location Advantages

• Proximity to Universal Studios Japan – 10‑minute walk or complimentary shuttle service; perfect for ticket‑bundled packages.
• Transport Hub – Direct access to Osaka Metro “JR Sakurajima Line” and the newly extended “Kansai Airport Express” (expected 2028).
• Bay Area Attractions – Near Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan,Tempozan Ferris Wheel,and the upcoming “Osaka Smart City” tech district.
• Business Connectivity – Within 15 km of Osaka International Convention Center (INTEX) – ideal for MICE (meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) events.

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Design & Alex Reed Experience

• Sustainable Architecture – 40 % of construction materials sourced from recycled steel; rooftop solar panels target 15 % of total energy consumption.
• Smart‑Room Technology – Voice‑activated controls, AI concierge (powered by IHG’s “CleverStay” platform), and contactless check‑in/check‑out.
• Wellness Hub – 3,500‑sq‑ft spa and fitness center shared across brands, featuring a hydrotherapy pool, yoga studio, and a “Zen Garden” meditation courtyard.
• Culinary Landscape –
• intercontinental: “Sea & Sky” – ocean‑inspired tasting menu with seasonal Osaka produce.
• Kimpton: “The Rooftop social” – pop‑up street‑food stalls rotating monthly.
• Holiday Inn Resort: “Family Buffet Plaza” – all‑day dining with kid‑friendly stations and allergy‑safe options.

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Economic Impact & Job Creation

• Direct employment: Approx. 1,200 full‑time positions (hospitality, operations, engineering) plus 600 seasonal staff for peak tourism periods.
• Supply‑chain boost: estimated ¥ 5 billion annual spend on local food producers, artisans, and service vendors.
• Tourism multiplier: Projected to attract an additional 1.2 million overnight stays per year,translating to ¥ 180 billion in regional revenue (Osaka tourism Board analysis,2025).

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Sustainability & ESG Commitments

• LEED Gold certification goal – achieved through high‑efficiency HVAC, water‑recycling system (30 % reduction in potable water use), and low‑VOC finishes.
• Zero‑waste ambition – on‑site composting of organic kitchen waste, partnership with Osaka Waste Management for circular recycling of plastics.
• Community initiatives – “IHG Osaka Green Apprenticeship” program offering hospitality training to 150 local youth annually.

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IHG Rewards Club Implications

• accelerated points earning: 10 % bonus points for stays in any of the three brands when booked through the “Universal 2029 Early‑Bird” program.
• Tier‑matching: International Platinum members receive complimentary InterContinental Lounge access for the first three nights.
• Family perks: Holiday Inn Resort families can pool points across 2‑4 rooms, unlocking free night awards and complimentary kids’ club enrollment.

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Practical Tips for Travelers Planning a 2029 Stay

1. Book early via IHG’s “Universal 2029 Countdown” portal – unlocks a 15 % discount on room rates when reserving 18 months in advance.
2. Leverage the shuttle pass – includes unlimited rides to universal Studios Japan, Osaka Aquarium, and the Kansai Airport Express for ¥ 2,500 per day.
3. Consider “Stay‑and‑Play” packages – combine InterContinental’s luxury suite with a private backstage tour of Universal Studios for ¥ 45,000.
4. Use the IHG mobile app – unlock in‑room smart features, request extra pillows, and access the virtual concierge for real‑time translation services.
5. Travel with pets? – Kimpton’s “Pet‑Friendly Suite” waives extra fees and provides a welcome kit (bed, bowls, and custom‑made treats).

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Real‑World Reference: IHG’s Prior mega‑Projects

• InterContinental Tokyo Bay (opened 2021) – 500‑room luxury tower with a 4‑star Michelin restaurant, set a benchmark for upscale hospitality in Japan’s capital.
• Kimpton Osaka namba (opened 2023) – boutique concept that introduced the “Kimpton unplugged” music series, now replicated in the new Osaka Bay property.
• Holiday Inn Resort Kyoto (opened 2022) – family resort featuring a rooftop water park, demonstrating IHG’s ability to blend leisure amenities with brand consistency.

These precedents underline IHG’s proven track record in delivering complex, multi‑brand developments that meet both luxury expectations and mass‑market demand.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Question	Answer
When can I start booking for 2029?	Pre‑launch reservations open on 1 September 2028 via the IHG website and mobile app.
Will there be a direct sky‑train to Universal studios?	Yes – a dedicated “Universal Express Line” will connect the hotel lobby to the park entrance, cutting travel time to 5 minutes.
are there any exclusive IHG member events planned?	The “IHG Elite night” (July 2029) will feature a gala dinner at the InterContinental’s rooftop,limited to Platinum and Spire members.
What COVID‑19 safety protocols will be in place?	HEPA‑filtered air systems, contactless room entry, and on‑site rapid testing sites. All protocols align with Japan’s Ministry of Health guidelines.
Can I earn points for dining at on‑site restaurants?	Yes – all food‑and‑beverage purchases earn points at a 5 % rate under the IHG Rewards Club.

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