IHG Hotels & Resorts brings the majestic Regent brand to Kyoto, Japan

Regent Hotels & Resorts has set new standards in luxury since it was founded in 1970, pioneering hotel design with bold firsts that captured imaginations and blending Eastern simplicity with Western elegance to deliver legendary hospitality. The collection of modern hotels and resorts is rooted in the beauty of contrast and the promise of extraordinary experiences.

Regent Kyoto will continue this rich tradition, offering travellers to Japan’s cultural city an unparalleled level of luxury and sophistication, with stunning design, world-class facilities and 86 elegant rooms that blend imagination, extravagance, and calm.

Set within a garden that was originally landscaped 100 years ago by renowned gardener, Kumakichi Kato, Regent Kyoto’s idyllic location is currently home to the famous restaurant, Tsuruya, which is recognised among Kyoto’s top dining destinations, having held a number of Michelin Stars over the years.

With more than 100 years’ history, Tsuruya is housed in sukiya-style wooden buildings, some of which were designed by celebrated architect Isoya Yoshida. It was originally developed as accommodation for the Japanese imperial family and honourable guests for their visits to Kyoto, and has welcomed some of the most important cultural and political figures in the world, including members of the Japanese Imperial family, Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Diana, George H.W. Bush and François Mitterrand, among other heads of state and dignitaries.

Regent Kyoto will be thoughtfully designed to incorporate Tsuruya and the gardens, and will offer everything guests would expect from an upper-luxury hotel, including a lobby lounge, fitness centre and spa, along with several restaurants in addition to Tsuruya.

Abhijay Sandilya, IHG Hotels & Resorts VP Development – Australasia, Japan & Pacific said: “With today’s signing of Regent Kyoto, I can confidently say that a legend will be born in Japan. We are so honoured that GI Capital Management has placed their trust in IHG to open Japan’s first Regent Hotel under IHG management in one of Kyoto’s most affluent areas, with the added privilege of sharing our address with Tsuruya, one of Kyoto’s most celebrated restaurants.

“Regent blends Eastern and Western nuances so naturally, and we know that it will resonate with travellers from Japan and around the world who are looking for extraordinary experiences, discreet luxury and exceptional service.”

Sakae Sugahara, Director & Partner, Chief Investment Officer, GI Capital Management Ltd. commented: “When we made the decision to develop a luxury hotel at one of Kyoto’s most prestigious addresses, which is home to the famous Tsuruya restaurant and gardens, we knew that that the hotel would need to be highly respectful and complementary to Kyoto’s heritage and sit a level above other luxury properties in the market. Following a long selection process, it became clear that Regent was the perfect fit: with its deep heritage and serene and imaginative design, it will bring a modern era of upper-luxury to Kyoto. We are proud to partner with IHG Hotels & Resorts to open Japan’s first Regent Hotel under IHG management, and look forward to a successful future together.”

Kyoto is the cultural capital of Japan and is a major tourist destination, home to several historic monuments which are listed and recognised by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. The government of Japan plans to relocate the Agency for Cultural Affairs to Kyoto in 2021 in honour of its status as Japan’s cultural centre.

Regent Kyoto will be in the perfect location for travellers wishing to explore everything the historic city of Kyoto has to offer, and is just a short walk from the world-famous Heian Shrine and Zenrin-Ji Temple, and Kyoto Imperial Palace.