Travel News Global
Hotel

Holiday Inn Takes Root in Japan: A New Era of Resort & City Stays

September 22, 2025

Summary

Holiday Inn, a globally recognized hotel brand under the IHG Hotels & Resorts umbrella, is making a significant push to solidify its presence in the Japanese market. This expansion involves the opening of a new Holiday Inn Resort in the popular coastal city of Shirahama and the launch of a new "urban stay experience" concept targeting both domestic and international travelers. This strategic move reflects the growing demand for diverse accommodation options in Japan, driven by increasing tourism and a desire for authentic, comfortable stays. The new resort in Shirahama caters to leisure travelers seeking beachside relaxation and scenic beauty, while the urban stay concept aims to provide a blend of comfort, convenience, and local experiences for business and leisure travelers alike. This expansion signifies Holiday Inn's confidence in the Japanese market's potential and its commitment to providing high-quality hospitality services tailored to the unique needs of Japanese travelers. The brand is focusing on blending its established global standards with local cultural nuances to create a welcoming and memorable experience. This move isn't just about adding hotels; it’s about strategically positioning the brand to capture a wider segment of the Japanese travel market, from families and couples to business travelers, by offering diverse experiences.

Key Details

  • New Resort: Holiday Inn Resort Shirahama will open in 2026.
  • Urban Stay Concept: Launched in Japan, aiming to be rolled out to other markets.
  • Target Audience: Domestic and international travelers, including families, couples, and business travelers.
  • IHG Hotels & Resorts: Holiday Inn is a brand within this larger hotel group.
  • Shirahama Location: A popular coastal resort town known for its beaches and natural beauty.
  • Focus: Providing a blend of comfort, convenience, and local experiences.
  • Strategic Importance: Solidifying Holiday Inn's presence in the growing Japanese hospitality market.
  • Investment: While the exact investment amount wasn’t specified, the article implies a significant investment in the brand’s Japanese expansion.

Geographical Information

Location Name Country/Region Key Details
Shirahama Japan Popular coastal resort town known for its beaches, hot springs, and scenic beauty. A major tourist destination, especially during the summer months.

Impact & Implications

  • Travelers: Increased choice of accommodation options in Japan, particularly in popular destinations like Shirahama. The "urban stay" concept offers a more curated, local-focused experience.
  • Travel Restrictions/Requirements: No specific changes mentioned in the article regarding travel restrictions or requirements. Travelers should always check the latest Japanese government guidelines before traveling.
  • Safety Considerations: No specific safety concerns mentioned in the article. Travelers should be aware of general safety precautions and follow local guidelines.

Additional Context

Japan's tourism industry has been steadily recovering after the pandemic. The country is actively working to attract more international visitors, and the expansion of hotel brands like Holiday Inn plays a crucial role in meeting the growing demand. There's a rising trend towards experiential travel in Japan, with travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences and unique accommodations. The Japanese hospitality industry is known for its high standards of service and attention to detail.

Original Source

Frequently Asked Questions

Where will the new Holiday Inn Resort be located, and when will it open?

The new Holiday Inn Resort will be located in Shirahama and is scheduled to open in 2026.

What is the 'urban stay experience' concept?

The 'urban stay experience' is a new concept offering a blend of comfort, convenience, and local experiences for both business and leisure travelers. It's initially launching in Japan and may be rolled out to other markets.

What other Holiday Inn properties are opening in Japan?

Holiday Inn & Suites Sapporo Odori Park is opening on October 1, 2025, and ANA Holiday Inn Tokyo Bay opened in April 2025.

Is there anything new regarding travel restrictions or safety in Japan?

The article does not mention any new travel restrictions or safety concerns. Travelers should check the latest Japanese government guidelines before traveling.

Who is IHG Hotels & Resorts?

IHG Hotels & Resorts is a leading global hotel company, and Holiday Inn is one of its brands.

About the Author
Author avatar
Michael Grant
Senior Travel Analyst & Industry Expert
Hotel reviewer and hospitality consultant.
Experience: 8+ years in travel journalism
Expertise: Global travel trends & industry analysis
Authority: Certified travel industry analyst
Trust: Verified travel news source
Specializations:
Airline Industry Hotel & Hospitality Cruise Lines Tourism Trends Travel Technology Destination Analysis
Key Achievements:
  • Published 500+ travel industry articles
  • Featured in major travel publications
  • Industry conference speaker
  • Travel industry certification holder
Community Discussion
Share Your Thoughts
We value your insights and experiences!
0/1000 characters
Stay Updated

Get the latest travel news delivered to your inbox

We respect your privacy
Book Flights - Fayyaz Travels Visa Services - Fayyaz Travels Mobe Advertisement