IHG Adds 14 Properties and Over 1,000 Rooms to Kyoto Portfolio

In one of Japan’s largest hospitality conversion agreements in recent years, IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced a landmark portfolio deal with GCP Hospitality, the operational arm of Gaw Capital Group. The deal adds 14 hotels totaling 1,063 rooms to IHG’s development pipeline across key travel hubs in Kyoto, including Kyoto Station, Shijo, and Gojo.

The expanded portfolio includes 12 properties slated for IHG’s midscale conversion brand, Garner, alongside one Holiday Inn Express and one unbranded asset. All properties will undergo extensive renovations and phased openings over the next 12 months.

Capturing Japan’s High-Demand Midscale Segment

The expansion targets Japan's business and budget travel sector—a market traditionally dominated by domestic operators. By introducing branded midscale alternatives, IHG aims to capture rising international demand while optimizing local property performance.

• Rapid Brand Scaling: The deal significantly accelerates the expansion of Garner, which launched globally in August 2023 and recently surpassed 100 open properties worldwide.
• Market Position: Data from the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) indicates record inbound tourist arrivals, driving demand beyond luxury developments toward accessible midscale accommodations in high-density cultural hubs.
• Complementary Footprint: The new openings join existing landmark properties in the historic city, including Six Senses Kyoto, ANA Crowne Plaza Kyoto, and Holiday Inn Kyoto Gojo.