Pacifica Hotels to Launch Japan’s First IHG Garner Hotel in Kyoto
Pacifica Hotels G.K., a prominent player in Japan’s hospitality industry, has announced a major step forward in its strategic expansion. Its subsidiary, Karasuma Hospitality G.K., has entered into a franchise agreement with IHG Hotels & Resorts to rebrand a centrally located hotel in Kyoto under IHG’s newest midscale brand, Garner. This marks the brand’s debut in Kyoto and will be the first Garner hotel in the city and the fourth in Japan. The newly rebranded hotel—Garner Hotel Kyoto Shijo Karasuma—is scheduled to open its doors in November 2025, following an extensive renovation.
This strategic rebranding aligns with Pacifica Hotels’ vision of catering to a growing market segment—value-driven travelers seeking reliable and comfortable accommodations in central urban areas. The renovation will focus on infusing Kyoto’s rich cultural and design heritage into the hotel’s interiors, blending tradition with modern comfort to create a memorable guest experience.
Introducing Garner to Kyoto: A New Era of Midscale Hospitality
Garner is IHG Hotels & Resorts’ newest entrant into the midscale hotel category. Designed to appeal to both domestic and international travelers seeking high-quality accommodations at reasonable prices, Garner offers a fresh and comfortable stay experience with the perks of being part of a globally recognized brand.
The Garner Hotel Kyoto Shijo Karasuma will feature 103 guest rooms, all of which will undergo a full renovation. These renovations are not simply cosmetic but deeply inspired by Kyoto’s cultural and architectural identity, allowing guests to immerse themselves in a sense of place while enjoying the consistency and benefits of an international hospitality chain.
In addition to the guest rooms, the hotel will feature a redesigned lobby lounge, which will serve as a social and relaxation hub. Guests will have access to complimentary coffee and tea throughout the day, reinforcing Garner’s brand promise of warmth and welcome. A café located on the ground floor and operated by a third-party tenant will offer breakfast, beverages, and light meals throughout the day, catering to both guests and walk-in visitors.
A Prime Location: At the Crossroads of Tradition and Modernity
Location is a critical success factor in the hospitality sector, and Garner Hotel Kyoto Shijo Karasuma is positioned to capitalize on this advantage. The property sits in Shijo Karasuma, one of Kyoto’s most vibrant districts, known for its blend of historical charm and contemporary convenience. The area is home to department stores, shopping arcades, traditional restaurants, and a wide range of cultural attractions.
Access to transportation is another key highlight. The hotel is within walking distance of both Shijo and Gojo subway stations, making it easy for guests to explore different parts of Kyoto. For travelers arriving by high-speed train, Kyoto Station is just a short taxi ride away, providing seamless connectivity to other parts of Japan via the Shinkansen network.
Guests will find themselves close to several of Kyoto’s most cherished attractions:
- Nishiki Market – known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” it offers a delightful variety of local foods and traditional snacks.
- Kyoto Imperial Palace – a historic residence of Japan’s imperial family, surrounded by a tranquil park.
- Kyoto International Manga Museum – a must-visit for fans of Japanese pop culture and art.
- Gion District and Yasaka Shrine – reachable with a short bus or subway ride, offering an authentic glimpse into Kyoto’s traditional geisha culture and historic temples.
A Midscale Market with Rising Demand
Seth Sulkin, CEO of Pacifica Hotels G.K., emphasized that the Garner brand presents a unique opportunity to tap into an underserved segment in the Japanese hotel market.
“This will be our first property in the midscale space, where we see strong demand from both international and Japanese travelers seeking quality accommodation at a reasonable price with the comfort of an international brand and the loyalty benefits it brings,” said Sulkin. “Guests at the hotel can enjoy the best daytime and nighttime attractions of Kyoto within walking distance, and the property is extremely convenient for the subway and city buses.”
Sulkin also noted that Pacifica Capital K.K., a group company, will oversee the project management of the renovation, ensuring that the design and execution meet international standards while integrating local aesthetics.
The launch of a Garner hotel in Kyoto demonstrates both IHG’s continued investment in Japan and Pacifica Hotels’ confidence in Kyoto’s tourism growth trajectory. Post-pandemic travel patterns have shown a robust recovery in Kyoto, with both domestic tourists and inbound visitors returning in strong numbers. This growing market makes the city ripe for innovative hotel brands that combine global hospitality standards with local cultural authenticity.
The Broader Vision: IHG’s Expansion and Garner’s Role
The addition of the Kyoto hotel to IHG’s Garner portfolio marks a milestone in the company’s broader strategy to grow its presence in Japan’s key leisure and business destinations. Garner hotels are positioned to deliver a dependable and comfortable guest experience, with a focus on service, location, and practical amenities that appeal to today’s discerning, budget-conscious travelers.
IHG Hotels & Resorts currently operates multiple brands in Japan, including InterContinental, Holiday Inn, Crowne Plaza, and Hotel Indigo, with Garner poised to become a key part of the company’s midscale offering.
The Garner brand was first introduced globally in 2023 as a flexible conversion-friendly brand aimed at owners looking to reflag existing hotels under a trusted banner with strong central support. This adaptability makes it especially attractive in Japan, where independent hotels and underperforming assets are prime candidates for repositioning.
November 2025 and Beyond
With a scheduled opening date in November 2025, Garner Hotel Kyoto Shijo Karasuma is expected to make a significant impact on the city’s midscale hospitality market. Renovation work is expected to begin soon, with a focus on sustainable design, efficient space planning, and seamless guest experience integration. Pacifica Hotels and IHG have signaled their commitment to creating a standout property that will appeal to travelers of all kinds—from solo explorers and business professionals to families and international tourists.
As Kyoto continues to solidify its place as one of the top travel destinations in Asia, Garner’s arrival comes at an opportune time. With its fusion of Kyoto-inspired design, international brand comfort, and midscale value, this hotel is set to redefine how guests experience the city.
In summary, the Garner Hotel Kyoto Shijo Karasuma represents a compelling new option for travelers and a powerful partnership between Pacifica Hotels and IHG—blending local charm with global hospitality in the heart of Japan’s cultural capital.
