IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced a significant expansion of its Japanese portfolio with the signing of the Holiday Inn Express Sapporo Susukino. Slated to open its doors in July 2026, this new addition marks the second Holiday Inn Express in Japan, signaling strong confidence in the country’s booming tourism market.
A Strategic Move in Japan’s Northern Hub
The upcoming 223-room hotel will be strategically located in Susukino, Sapporo’s renowned entertainment and nightlife district. This prime location places guests at the heart of the action, with easy access to countless restaurants, bars, and shopping venues, as well as major transport links. The project is a partnership with a consortium of leading Japanese developers: Mitsubishi Corporation Urban Development, Tokyo Tatemono, and The Sankei Building.
The hotel will be a conversion project, rebranding an existing property to meet the global standards of the Holiday Inn Express brand, which is known for providing smart, simple, and engaging stays for travelers on the go.
Why Japan, Why Sapporo?
This announcement comes as Japan’s tourism industry experiences a phenomenal resurgence. In 2023, the country welcomed over 25 million international visitors, a robust recovery reaching approximately 80% of pre-pandemic levels. This surge is fueled by a weak Japanese yen, making Japan an incredibly attractive and affordable destination for international travelers.
Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is a key beneficiary of this trend. It serves as a gateway to the island’s natural wonders, world-class ski resorts like Niseko, and its own famous attractions, including the annual Sapporo Snow Festival. The city is a year-round destination, drawing both leisure and business travelers, making it a perfect fit for a globally recognized mid-scale hotel brand.
Abhijay Sandilya, Managing Director for Japan & Micronesia at IHG, highlighted the growing trend of hotel owners in Japan seeking partnerships with global brands. He noted that access to IHG’s extensive global systems, distribution channels, and the popular IHG One Rewards loyalty program is a major draw, reinforcing the strong investment appeal of Japan’s hotel sector.
Future Impact on Sapporo’s Travel Landscape
Increased Competition and Choice for Travelers
The arrival of a new Holiday Inn Express will intensify competition in Sapporo’s mid-scale hotel market. For travelers, this is welcome news, as it will increase the variety of high-quality, internationally branded accommodation options. It provides a reliable choice for the millions of IHG One Rewards members visiting Japan, who can now earn and redeem points in one of the country’s most popular northern cities.
A Bellwether for Regional Investment
IHG’s move is likely to be seen as a bellwether for the industry. It underscores a broader trend of international hotel chains expanding beyond the traditional “golden route” of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. We can anticipate other global hotel giants to accelerate their own expansion plans into Japan’s regional cities, which are rich in culture and tourism potential.
This development in Sapporo is more than just a new hotel opening; it’s a powerful vote of confidence in the future of Japanese tourism. As Japan continues to attract record numbers of visitors, the Holiday Inn Express Sapporo Susukino is poised to become a key player in accommodating the next wave of global explorers.
