IHG Expands Footprint in Kyoto with 14 New Hotels

IHG Hotels & Resorts has inked a landmark agreement to convert 14 properties in Kyoto over the next year, adding 1,063 rooms to its portfolio. The conversion includes 12 Garner hotels—a midscale brand launched three years ago—one Holiday Inn Express, and an unbranded hotel, all situated in key districts near major transport hubs and cultural attractions. GCP Hospitality, the hospitality arm of Gaw Capital Group, will head the management team for the new additions. The deal, one of Japan’s largest hotel conversions recently, will be rolled out in phases over the next 12 months, with the properties expected to join the IHG One Rewards program shortly after opening. IHG’s move positions it as a major international player in Kyoto’s historically domestic‑dominated hotel market.