IHG Hotels & Resorts and GI Capital Management have commenced construction of the upcoming Regent Kyoto, marked by a ground-breaking ceremony held on 27 May 2025. The hotel is scheduled to open in 2028.
Located in Kyoto’s Okazaki area, known for its historic villas, the property will offer 83 rooms and is set around a central garden originally landscaped over a century ago by Kumakichi Kato. The site currently houses Tsuruya, a long-established ‘ryotei’ restaurant that has served Japanese nobility, the imperial family, and visiting dignitaries.
C. James Lee, Managing Partner / CEO, GI Capital Management Ltd., said: “The groundbreaking ceremony is a special day for the team and a wonderful milestone for Kyoto. We are proud to bring the Regent brand to life, reflecting the timeless beauty of Kyoto, in this serene, beautiful and historic location in partnership with IHG.
“Complementing Kyoto’s cultural and historical legacy, we are creating a truly special experience that redefines the meaning of luxury in this remarkable city.”
Abhijay Sandilya, CEO of IHG ANA Hotels Group Japan and Managing Director of IHG Hotels & Resorts Japan & Micronesia, said: “It’s wonderful to see the momentum behind upper luxury brand Regent globally, and today we celebrate another exciting chapter for Regent following the groundbreaking in Kyoto, the cultural capital of Japan.”
Regent Kyoto will feature guest rooms with a contemporary interpretation of the traditional Japanese ‘engawa’ – a space by the window that connects guests with the surrounding gardens. The hotel’s design is said to integrate modern architecture with historical elements.
Regent Hotels & Resorts joined IHG in 2018. Regent Kyoto will join a global portfolio that includes Regent Hong Kong, Regent Phu Quoc, and the recently announced Regent Bali Canggu.