Triple branded hotel project breaks ground near Universal Studios Japan – IHG’s biggest new build in country

IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) proudly announces its biggest new-build hotel agreement in Japan near Universal Studios Japan (USJ), in partnership with Sakurajima Kaihatsu LLC, a consortium of four companies: Kajima Corporation, JAPAN POST REAL ESTATE Co., Ltd., SMFL MIRAI Partners Company, Limited, and Keihanshin Building Co., Ltd.

The Project
- IHG Hotels & Resorts has broken ground on its largest new-build hotel development in Japan, near Universal Studios Japan (USJ) in Osaka.
- It’s a triple-branded project, bringing together:
- InterContinental – luxury brand
- Kimpton – lifestyle brand
- Holiday Inn Resort – family-friendly brand

Location & Access
- Situated in Konohana-ku, Osaka, right by Asia’s most visited theme park.
- Guests will be just a 10-minute boat ride or drive from the new Yumeshima Integrated Resort.
- The hotels will be official USJ properties and the only internationally branded hotels in the area.

Scale & Features
- 817 rooms (keys) across three adjoining hotels.
- Each property will have restaurants, bars, pools, gyms, and event spaces tailored to its brand identity.
- Opening scheduled for 2029.

Strategic Importance
- Marks IHG’s first triple-branded project in Japan.
- Expands IHG’s footprint in Osaka (currently 10 properties) and the wider Kansai region (12 properties).
- Strengthens IHG’s role as an official hotel partner to Universal Studios Japan.

Broader Context
- Part of Osaka’s Sakurajima Resort Project, which includes new infrastructure like JR line extensions and ferry terminals.
- Enhances Osaka’s appeal as a global tourism hub, combining theme parks, integrated resorts, and international hospitality.