IHG Hotels & Resorts secured a portfolio of 14 hotels totaling 1,063 rooms in Kyoto, Japan, on August 26, 2026. The collection includes 12 Garner-branded hotels, one Holiday Inn Express, and one unbranded property, all situated in vital city districts close to major transport hubs and top cultural attractions.
IHG’s Landmark Expansion in Kyoto
This agreement significantly expands IHG’s footprint in Kyoto’s hospitality sector, complementing its existing mix of properties such as Holiday Inn Kyoto Gojo, Garner Hotel Kyoto Shijo Karasuma, ANA Crowne Plaza Kyoto, and Six Senses Kyoto. Historically dominated by domestic operators, Kyoto’s market will now feature IHG as a major international player.
Management and Brand Details
GCP Hospitality, the hospitality branch of Gaw Capital Group, will oversee the management of the 14 acquired hotels. Garner, IHG’s midscale conversion brand launched three years ago, has experienced fast growth, recently marking the opening of its 100th global hotel. This portfolio aligns with Garner’s expansion strategy in Japan.
Timeline and Official Remarks
The 14 properties will undergo renovations and rebranding processes, with phased openings scheduled over the next 12 months. Abhijay Sandilya, Managing Director for Japan & Micronesia at IHG Hotels & Resorts, and CEO of IHG ANA Hotels Group Japan, said this deal “demonstrates the growing interest from owners to rebrand hotels
and benefit from quick access to IHG’s leading enterprise, including our marketing, technology and distribution platforms, and the scale of IHG One Rewards globally.”
Benefits for Guests and Loyalty Members
IHG One Rewards members will gain additional accommodation options in Kyoto following the rebranding and renovations. The new hotels’ locations ensure convenient access to the city’s main transport links and key cultural and tourism sites, enhancing visitor experience.
