IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has announced the opening of two new ANA Holiday Inn properties in western Japan. The move marks a significant milestone for Sanda City in Hyogo Prefecture and Tosu City in Saga Prefecture, as they welcome their first-ever internationally branded full-service hotels. This strategic expansion signals a growing trend among global hospitality giants to look beyond Japan’s “Golden Route” and tap into the burgeoning potential of regional destinations.
Background: A Shift in Japan’s Tourism Landscape
The decision to open hotels in these regional cities is not a random one. It is a calculated move that reflects broader shifts in Japan’s tourism industry and evolving traveler preferences.
The Post-Pandemic Travel Boom and Diversification
Japan has experienced a remarkable recovery in inbound tourism since reopening its borders. According to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), the number of international visitors has consistently surpassed pre-pandemic levels in 2024. However, the nature of this travel is changing.
Increasingly, savvy international travelers and repeat visitors are seeking more authentic and less crowded experiences beyond the well-trodden paths of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. This has created a surge in demand for quality accommodation in regional areas known for their unique culture, nature, and local cuisine. The Japanese government is also actively promoting this dispersal of tourism through its “地方創生” (regional revitalization) initiatives to combat overtourism in major cities and stimulate local economies.
The Power of a Long-Standing Partnership
This expansion is facilitated by the robust partnership between IHG and ANA (All Nippon Airways) through their joint venture, IHG ANA Hotels Group Japan, established in 2006. This collaboration has been instrumental in growing IHG’s brands, including InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, and Holiday Inn, across the country. By leveraging ANA’s strong domestic brand recognition and network, IHG can effectively penetrate local markets and attract both domestic and international guests.
A Closer Look at the New Hotels
The two new properties are strategically located to capture a mix of leisure and business travelers, serving as convenient bases for exploring their respective regions.
ANA Holiday Inn Resort Sanda, Hyogo
Located in Sanda City, just a short journey from the major metropolitan areas of Osaka and Kobe, this hotel is positioned as a resort destination. It aims to attract families and leisure travelers with its extensive facilities, which may include golf courses, tennis courts, and swimming pools. Its proximity to attractions like the Kobe-Sanda Premium Outlets and the famed Arima Onsen hot spring resort makes it an appealing choice for those looking to combine relaxation, shopping, and urban exploration.
ANA Holiday Inn Tosu, Saga
Situated in Tosu City, a key transportation hub in the Kyushu region, this hotel offers excellent access to major cities like Fukuoka, Nagasaki, and Kumamoto. Tosu is famous for the Tosu Premium Outlets, one of the largest outlet malls in western Japan, making the hotel a prime spot for shopping-focused tourists. For business travelers, its location at the crossroads of major expressways and railways in Kyushu is a significant advantage.
Future Outlook: A Catalyst for Regional Growth
The arrival of a global brand like Holiday Inn is expected to have a profound impact on these regional cities and the wider travel industry.
Economic Ripple Effects
The most immediate effect will be on the local economies. The hotels will create new jobs and stimulate demand for local goods and services. Furthermore, the presence of an international hotel brand raises the profile of Sanda and Tosu on the global stage, potentially attracting new investment and a greater number of international visitors who might have otherwise overlooked these destinations. This could lead to a virtuous cycle of growth for the local tourism sector.
A New Era for Travelers
For travelers, this expansion means more choice and greater comfort. The reliability and consistent standards of an international brand like Holiday Inn can provide peace of mind, especially for international tourists unfamiliar with local hotel chains. It opens up new possibilities for itineraries, allowing visitors to comfortably base themselves in these cities while exploring the hidden gems of the Hyogo and Saga countrysides.
Conclusion: More Than Just New Hotels
IHG’s dual openings in Sanda and Tosu are more than just an addition of hotel rooms; they are a clear indicator of the future of tourism in Japan. As travelers continue to seek diverse and authentic experiences, the focus will increasingly shift to regional destinations. This strategic move by IHG not only meets this growing demand but also acts as a powerful catalyst, paving the way for a more geographically balanced and sustainable tourism industry in Japan. For travelers, it’s an invitation to look beyond the guidebooks and discover the rich tapestry of experiences that Japan’s regional cities have to offer.
