Minor Hotels expands into Japan to capitalize on growing tourism

JAPAN – Minor Hotels has announced its entry into Japan, leveraging the country’s surging inbound tourism as global travel rebounds, presenting a prime opportunity for the hospitality group to expand its presence in the region.

Minor Hotels is set to expand into Japan through a strategic partnership with Royal Holdings, a Tokyo Stock Exchange-listed company with a diverse portfolio spanning hotels, catering services, and popular restaurant chains, including Royal Host.

This collaboration marks a significant step in Minor Hotels’ global growth strategy and its entry into Japan’s competitive hospitality market, which continues to attract international investment.

As part of the agreement, Minor Hotels and Royal Holdings will establish a joint venture, Royal Minor Hotels, set to launch next month.

Both companies will hold an equal stake in the venture, which is committed to developing 21 hotels across Japan by 2035.

Industry experts suggest that this initiative will strengthen Minor Hotels’ presence in the region while leveraging Royal Holdings’ local market expertise.

Royal Holdings already operates 47 Richmond Hotels across Japan and has extensive experience in the hotel and hospitality sectors.

The partnership is expected to capitalize on both companies’ strengths, offering travelers a diverse range of experiences through three distinct hotel brands: Anantara, Tivoli, and Avani.

Each brand is tailored to different segments of the market

Anantara will cater to the luxury segment with high-end services and lavish amenities, Tivoli will provide an upscale yet more accessible option, and Avani will focus on modern urban accommodations designed for younger, budget-conscious travelers prioritizing comfort and convenience.

A representative from Minor Hotels indicated that the company sees a growing need for luxury hotels in Japan’s major cities and tourist hubs, driven by increasing inbound tourism.

By introducing multiple brands, the joint venture aims to attract a diverse mix of domestic and international travelers, positioning itself as a key player in Japan’s evolving hospitality landscape.

Japan’s hotel sector has become an attractive destination for global hospitality groups, with competitors also scaling their presence.

Accor, the French hotel giant, recently expanded with 22 new hotels in Japan as part of an ambitious growth strategy, while IHG Hotels & Resorts has outlined plans to double its footprint in the country.

This heightened competition underscores the growing demand for high-quality accommodation, particularly in urban centers and major tourism hotspots.

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