IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) will expand its Regent brand in Japan with the opening of its first resort location. The 58-key Regent Karuizawa, a new-build onsen retreat in the historic town of Karuizawa, will feature rooms and villas and is expected to set a new benchmark in upper luxury mountain destinations when it opens in 2028.
Set amid lush forest, hot springs and views of Mount Asama, the resort will offer an exclusive sanctuary for guests seeking tranquillity and modern luxury, reflecting the hallmarks of the Regent brand.
The property will provide dining and bar options, including a specialty restaurant with valley views. Additional facilities will include meeting spaces, a wellness centre with the resort’s signature spa and onsen, and a gym.
Karuizawa is one of Japan’s oldest and most renowned mountain resort towns, offering year-round activities including scenic waterfalls, nature walks, ski resorts, golf courses, upscale shopping and dining. Popular with the Japanese Imperial Family and owners of holiday homes, it is approximately one hour from Tokyo by Shinkansen. Regent Karuizawa will join another IHG property, Hotel Indigo Karuizawa, offering a range of experiences for visitors.
IHG has 55 open hotels across 10 brands and 17 pipeline properties in Japan. Regent Karuizawa will be the brand’s second entry into the market, following Regent Kyoto, which is also scheduled to open in 2028.
Abhijay Sandilya, managing director, Japan & Micronesia, IHG Hotels & Resorts and CEO of IHG ANA Hotels Group Japan, said: “We are delighted to announce the addition of Regent Karuizawa, our first Regent resort destination in Japan. Karuizawa is a special location within easy reach of Tokyo, renowned for its outstanding natural habitat.”
He added that Regent Karuizawa will help meet rising demand from international travellers and establish a new standard for luxury hospitality in the area, while complementing the under-construction Regent Kyoto and highlighting the attractiveness of the Regent brand to owners “looking to open properties in city and resort locations across Japan”.
