From October 11, Japan will be reopening to Australians without border restrictions for the first time in more than two years. This opening will provide Australians and New Zealanders with the ability to return to a much loved destination that attracted 520,000 Australians in 2019 alone.

Travellers will once again be able to experience the eclectic culture, endless natural beauty and first-class hospitality that Japan is renowned for. 

Since the beginning of 2022, IHG Hotels & Resorts has expanded its portfolio in Japan and opened three remarkable new properties to stand amongst its league of world-class hotels.

Hotel Indigo Inuyama Urakuen Garden

Inspired by Inuyama's many treasures, Hotel Indigo Inuyama Urakuen Garden which opened its doors in March, is a beautifully designed boutique hotel rich in the city's culture. The hotel is located in the Urakuen Garden together with the Jo-An Teahouse and next to the tranquil Kiso River and Inuyama Castle. Offering spectacular views and world-class hospitality the hotel's signature restaurant 'Indigo Home Kitchen Yamateras' focuses on creating traditional food using seasonal produce. The resort is a 40-minute drive from capital Nagoya. 

• The rate: Guests can stay from $274 per night
• Inclusions: Furnished balcony, spa-like curated bathrooms, coffee machine, valet service, use of the hotel's onsite fitness centre featuring renewable wood machines to minimise environmental impact

Hotel Indigo Karuizawa

Hotel Indigo Karuizawa, an oasis away from the main city, is set upon the historical and mountainous neighbourhood of Karuizawa and offers an incredible experience of the mountain. This fashionable retreat, which opened in February, serves neighbourhood charm and features an onsite communal bath, award-winning Thai spa and onsite restaurant KAGARIBI. Bathrooms feature luxury fixtures such as rainfall showerheads and bidets. Located in the Nagano Prefecture and one hour from Tokyo on the bullet train, Karuizawa is a resort town full of history and stories to discover.

• The rate: Guests can stay from $280 per night
• Inclusions: Furnished balcony, spa-like curated bathrooms, valet service

ANA InterContinental Appi Kogen Resort

Opened in February and set upon stunning ski slopes, the ANA InterContinental Appi Kogen Resort is alpine luxury and an embodiment of the best of Japan's seasons. The resort is accessible by bullet train with JR Appi Kogen Station a five minute drive away. Overlooking ski slopes in winter and lush greenery in the warmer months of the year, this destination offers rejuvenation, authenticity and a memorable stay. The hotel features 34 guestrooms, hot springs located at the top of the hotel and an onsite restaurant. The resort is home to 38 all-Club InterContinental rooms and suites, two traditional onsen Japanese baths, the IWA and HINOKI, a luxury spa, signature bar and restaurant and a spectacular third-floor viewing terrace.

• The rate: Guests can stay from $383 per night
• Inclusions: Spacious rooms, complimentary breakfast, fitness centre, free WI-FI

More recent openings from IHG Hotels & Resorts

Holiday Inn Express Osaka City Centre - Midosuji

The recently opened Holiday Inn Express Osaka City Centre offers one of the most coveted locations in the heart of Osaka city. This convenient property delivers where travellers need it most and provides guests with the space to work and relax, high-speed WI-FI, design-led rooms with power showers, and the brand's much-loved complimentary hot breakfast daily. The hotel embodies a “simple, smart travel” approach ensuring guests are well taken care of and fully equipped for their days. The property is located near a wealth of must-see attractions and minutes from the retail haven that is Shinsaibashi district.

• The rate: Guests can stay from $139 per night
• Inclusions: Complimentary Express Start breakfast — made with locally sourced ingredients, power showers in all bathrooms, choice of pillow, free WI-FI, faster check-in at the hotel's 24-hour service desk, kids eat free.

Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo

Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo is where creativity comes to life. As Japan's first Kimpton opened in late 2020, the hotel is located in the bustling Shinjuku district and offers a serene oasis in one of the most iconic areas in the world. There's always something new to see and do in Shinjuku, from the best galleries to retail pop-ups and an endless selection of locally loved restaurants. The hotel is a convenient 10-minute drive from the famous Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. The hotel's “Forgot It? We Got It!” policy ensures you have everything you need for your stay.

• The rate: Guests can stay from $504 per night
• Inclusions: Complimentary morning coffee and tea service to go, free WI-FI, nightly hosted evening social hour, yoga mats, signature Japanese artist print robes, Atelier Bloem hair, body, and skincare amenities, “Forgot It? We Got It!” policy for forgotten essential travel items.

ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort & Spa

A luxurious escape from everyday life, ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort & Spa invites you to explore the best of Japanese wellness. The resort introduces a rare combination of Japan's hot spring heritage and world-class experience as well as seasonal dining options and breathtaking views.

• The rate: Guests can stay from $865 per night
• Inclusions:  Myoban Mountains View Balcony, espresso machine, free WI-FI, use of the hotel's outdoor pool, use of the hotel's onsite fitness centre.

ENDS