Japan News
Centara’s second hotel in Japan invites members to experience the best of Osaka
Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, is set to expand its presence in Japan with the upcoming opening of Centara Life Namba Hotel Osaka in Q2 2026, marking the group’s second hotel in Japan following the successful debut of Centara Grand Hotel Osaka in 2023. To celebrate the launch, Centara is introducing a limited-time, members-only opening offer designed for modern travellers who want to experience the city from its most vibrant neighbourhood.
Sapporo’s Newest Luxury Address: Where Nature Meets Urban Elegance
This October, the city of Sapporo will welcome a striking new addition to its skyline — the InterContinental Sapporo, the first hotel from the prestigious brand to open in the city. Tucked into the lush setting of Nakajima Park, the hotel promises to deliver a refined luxury experience where Hokkaido’s wild natural beauty and Sapporo’s urban sophistication seamlessly intertwine.
SHIGUCHI: A New Sanctuary of Art, Nature, and Architecture in Hokkaido
In the heart of Hokkaido’s serene landscape, a new private retreat is redefining the way travelers connect with Japan’s rich cultural and natural heritage. SHIGUCHI, which opened quietly in May 2022 in Hanazono, Kutchan, is a sanctuary of art, architecture, and nature designed for those seeking a deeply immersive and restorative experience.
Palace Hotel Tokyo Garners Coveted Three Keys in MICHELIN Guide
Palace Hotel Tokyo, the luxury property that’s become one of Japan’s most loved hotels since its unveiling in 2012, has been awarded Three Keys by MICHELIN Guide in recognition of its achievements in meeting and exceeding, the guide’s benchmarks for delivering the world’s most ‘extraordinary stay’ experiences.
Hyatt Introduces Caption by Hyatt Concept to Japan with New Osaka Property
Hyatt Hotels Corporation has launched Caption by Hyatt Namba Osaka, a lively lifestyle hotel situated in Osaka, Japan. Boasting 167 rooms, the hotel offers a unique guest experience with self-service options, vibrant social spaces, and a modern design reflecting the local neighborhood. With a focus on sustainability and community engagement, the hotel aims to be a good neighbor while providing guests with memorable experiences.
Finnair blossoms with return to Nagoya
Finnair’s first flight to Nagoya since pre-pandemic, officially took to the skies yesterday morning, as the airline continues to extend its route network. Flight AY79 departed Helsinki at 12:15am , before touching down in the Japanese city at 6:29pm local time.
Plans for New Luxury Hot Spring Ryokan Brand ATONA in Locations Across Japan in 2026
Hyatt Hotels Corporation and Kiraku, Inc. have announced that ATONA, the modern hot spring ryokan (Japanese-style inn) brand, will open properties in Yufu, Yakushima, and Hakone. The ATONA brand was announced in 2022 under a joint venture between a Hyatt affiliate and Kiraku, a Japanese company dedicated to preserving valuable assets for future generations. The first ATONA ryokans are slated to open in 2026 across some of Japan’s top hot spring destinations and areas of natural beauty.
IHG Partners with Kajima Corporation to Open ANA Holiday Inn Resort Karuizawa
IHG Hotels & Resorts has inked its inaugural management contract in Japan with Kajima Corporation, marking a significant stride in their mutual development partnership. Set to debut in 2025, ANA Holiday Inn Resort Karuizawa will offer 100 guest rooms, 2 pet-friendly villas, and an array of facilities, including a restaurant, natural hot spring, gym, and indoor swimming pool, amidst the picturesque Asama wilderness.
Luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Osaka Opens Reservations Ahead of Grand Debut
The highly anticipated Four Seasons Hotel Osaka is now accepting reservations for its grand opening scheduled for this summer. Situated in the vibrant Dojima district, the hotel promises a blend of luxury and Japanese culture, featuring six dining options, a wellness floor with a spa and fitness center, and contemporary accommodations.
Japan’s First Helicopter Hiking Tour of Its Southern Alps Launches in Shizuoka
A brand new helicopter and hiking tour has launched in Shizuoka, exploring Japan’s captivating Southern Alps. Offering exhilarating views of majestic Mt. Fuji and its surrounding peaks, the tour includes stops at a rejuvenating mountain onsen, a traditional ryokan and Japan’s most remote whisky distillery.
Six Senses Kyoto: A Fusion of Tradition, Luxury, and Sustainability
Six Senses Kyoto unveils its doors, marking the brand’s debut in Japan and a significant addition to its expanding urban collection. Positioned amidst Kyoto’s iconic heritage sites, the hotel blends modern luxury with traditional Japanese aesthetics, offering guests an immersive experience in the heart of the ancient capital. Drawing inspiration from Kyoto’s golden age, the hotel’s design pays homage to the Heian period, incorporating elements of “Miyabi” (courtly elegance) and traditional arts throughout its interiors.
Lufthansa Group celebrates 55 years connecting Osaka with Germany
With a tradition that extends more than five decades, Lufthansa Group celebrates 55 years connecting Japan’s Kansai region with Germany. Described by many as the cultural center and the historical heart of Japan, the Kansai region - including Kyoto, Osaka, Nara and Kobe - has had a direct connection to the European nation of Germany since 1969 thanks to Lufthansa German Airlines.