The launch of Garner Hotel Kyoto Shijo Karasuma will strengthen IHG’s presence in Kyoto
IHG Hotels and Resorts, a leading British hospitality firm, has announced a significant expansion of its Garner brand with the upcoming opening of Garner Hotel Kyoto Shijo Karasuma, set to debut in November.
In a press statement, IHG says that this new 103-room hotel, developed in partnership with Taisei Yuraku Real Estate and Pacifica Hotels GK, marks the first Garner property in Kyoto and the fourth in Japan.
The statement adds that the hotel will undergo a comprehensive renovation to incorporate design elements that reflect Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage alongside the signature hallmarks of the Garner brand, which is known for offering quality accommodations at an affordable price point.
IHG says that strategically located in the upscale Shijo Karasuma area, the hotel offers guests convenient access to major transportation hubs including the nearby Gojo and Shijo subway stations and a short taxi ride to Kyoto Station, connecting travellers to the Shinkansen bullet train.
Abhijay Sandilya
“Expanding the Garner brand into Kyoto in partnership with Taisei Yuraku Real Estate Co Ltd and Pacifica Hotels GK is another milestone, for our fast-growing mainstream conversion brand, since welcoming the brand to Japan six months ago. As we continue IHG’s growth journey, we see opportunities for expansion across our brand portfolio and our estate in Kyoto is a great example of that. With the addition of the Garner brand, we will be offering more stay options for travellers from Garner and Holiday Inn in the mainstream segment, Crowne Plaza in the Premium space, to Six Senses and the upcoming Regent hotel in the upper luxury space,” says Abhijay Sandilya, Managing Director, Japan and Micronesia, IHG Hotels and Resorts and CEO, IHG ANA Hotels Group Japan.
According to the statement the location places guests within walking distance of iconic attractions such as Nishiki Market, Kyoto Imperial Palace and the Kyoto International Manga Museum, as well as popular shopping districts and department stores, blending historic charm with modern urban convenience.
Additionally, the launch of Garner Hotel Kyoto Shijo Karasuma will strengthen IHG’s presence in Kyoto, complementing its existing portfolio that includes Six Senses Kyoto, ANA Crowne Plaza Kyoto and Holiday Inn Kyoto Gojo.
“We are excited to partner with IHG to bring the first Garner hotel to Kyoto. With the growing interest to this historic city globally, it’s timely to be adding greater choice for both domestic and international travellers. Offering guests an international brand that is designed to offer quality, relaxed stays at an affordable price, as well as easy ways to book through IHG’s global systems will enhance the overall guest experience and give travellers confidence they have made the right decision,” says Takeshi Uekusa, Representative Director and President, Taisei Yuraku Real Estate.
It adds that IHG has plans for Regent Kyoto, scheduled to open in 2028, further solidifying its footprint in this culturally significant city.
Seth Sulkin
“This agreement builds on an existing relationship with IHG and we look forward to being part of the expansion of the Garner brand in Japan as we grow our portfolio of hotels in the midscale category where we see there’s strong headroom for growth,” says Seth Sulkin, Representative Director and President, Pacifica Hotels GK.
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