Shrine to convert akiya into tourist lodgings
Hikosan Jingu Shrine in Fukuoka Prefecture is embarking on a plan to convert 10 vacant ‘akiya’ homes into lodgings for tourists. It is hoped this will revitalize the historic streets and help out local souvenir shops and businesses.
Akasaka Excel Hotel Tokyu to close
Akasaka Excel Hotel Tokyu will close its doors permanently in late August 2023 as its lease comes to an end.
Togo Murano-designed hotel in Kyoto to close its doors
Hotel Rubino Kyoto Horikawa will permanently close next March as the prolonged pandemic takes its toll. The hotel was designed by iconic modernist architect Togo Murano and opened in 1972.
Revisiting small hotel listings now that borders are about to reopen
Starting October 11, Japan’s inbound tourism restrictions introduced during the pandemic will be fully lifted with entry procedures returning to pre-pandemic norms. With inbound tourism about to kick into high gear, let’s take an updated look at the smaller hotels that have been listed for sale recently. A note to readers: you won’t find information published online about larger or higher quality assets available for purchase as information on those listings cannot be shared publicly.
Details released for new high-rise in Miyamasuzaka
Details of a 180-meter high-rise for the eastern side of Shibuya Station have been published by the Cabinet Office. The Miyamasuzaka District Redevelopment will see a 33-story office and hotel tower built on the northern side of Miyamasuzaka Street.
Resort that sold for 11,000 Yen to be transformed into luxury hotel
An onsen resort that cost 4.17 billion Yen to develop during Japan’s bubble years sold last year for just 11,000 Yen (approx. US$100 at the time).
Why did it sell for such a low price?
Mampei Hotel to undergo 18-month refurbishment
The historic Mampei Hotel in Karuizawa will temporarily close from January 2023 to undergo an 18-month restoration and refurbishment. It is scheduled to re-open in 2024 to mark its 130-year anniversary.