The deal to develop DoubleTree by Hilton Kyoto Higashiyama is in partnership with The Sankei Building Co Ltd, Kokyo Asset Management Co Ltd and Granvista Hotels & Resorts Co Ltd.
Rebrand plan
An existing hotel will be rebranded to form the 158-room Hilton group site and is scheduled to open in the summer of 2023.
DoubleTree by Hilton Kyoto Higashiyama will be suited for business and leisure travellers, located in a historic district of Kyoto. The property will be infused with a modern Japanese style of design, while a mini-Japanese garden will be situated on the lobby floor. The hotel will feature an all-day restaurant, a lounge and bar, as well as a fitness centre and a public bath.
Rapid expansion
Guy Phillips, senior vice president, development, Asia and Australasia at Hilton, said: “Kyoto is a sought-after cultural capital with tremendous opportunity, and we are excited to partner with The Sankei Building Co Ltd, Kokyo Asset Management Co Ltd and Granvista Hotels & Resorts Co, Ltd. to introduce DoubleTree by Hilton to the city.
“When it opens in the coming months, DoubleTree by Hilton Kyoto Higashiyama will mark Hilton’s third brand to enter Kyoto in two years, after Roku Kyoto, LXR Hotels & Resorts in late 2021 and the recently opened Hilton Garden Inn Kyoto Shijo Karasuma. With Hilton Kyoto also set to open in 2024, Hilton is deeply committed to meeting the diverse guest needs in this key market, while driving best-in-class performance and owner returns.”
Integral Japan
Vincent Ong, vice president, head of full services brands, Asia Pacific, Hilton, added: “With the opening of DoubleTree by Hilton Toyama this month, DoubleTree by Hilton Kyoto Higashiyama next summer and DoubleTree by Hilton Osaka Castle in 2024, Japan continues to be an integral part of the brand’s growth story.
“DoubleTree by Hilton has been renowned for delivering a warm welcome to guests in Japan and around the world. The signature, warm DoubleTree chocolate chip cookie has become synonymous with the brand’s hospitality and delivery of feel-good moments from arrival throughout a guest’s stay, and we look forward to extending that welcome to even more business travellers and leisure seekers in Japan.”