Kyoto to Welcome New Midscale Hotel Near Key Transit and Attractions
IHG Hotels & Resorts is preparing to open a 103-room Garner hotel in the central Shijo Karasuma district of Kyoto, with a scheduled launch in November 2025. Working together with Taisei Yuraku Real Estate and Pacifica Hotels, the property will undergo major renovations to fit Garner’s brand guidelines. This will be the first Garner hotel in Kyoto and the fourth in Japan, reflecting IHG’s ongoing growth in important urban markets.
The hotel’s prime location offers guests several practical benefits:
- Easy access to Shijo and Gojo subway stations
- A short taxi ride from Kyoto Station
- Seamless connections throughout Kyoto and beyond
Renovation work on the property is scheduled ahead of the launch, aligning with IHG’s plans to expand the Garner brand in Japan. The opening aims to address growing demand for midscale hotels in Kyoto, especially during busy tourist seasons.
Offering guests an international brand that’s designed to offer quality, relaxed stays at an affordable price, as well as easy ways to book through IHG’s global systems will enhance the overall guest experience and give travellers confidence they have made the right decision.
Visitors staying at the hotel will have easy access to several local attractions within walking distance. Nishiki Market is a lively covered shopping street famous for its traditional foods, fresh produce, and distinctive local crafts. Teramachi Shopping Arcade offers an array of shops including trendy clothing stores and specialty boutiques sheltered from the weather. Housed in a historic structure, the Kyoto Art Center serves as a venue for cultural activities and performances rather than functioning as a traditional museum.
For those wishing to experience Kyoto’s distinctive atmosphere, Pontocho Alley is a narrow historic lane along the Kamo River, famous for its traditional wooden architecture and a variety of dining options. One of Kyoto’s key commercial avenues, Shijo Dori includes well-known department stores such as Takashimaya along with numerous smaller retailers. Nearby, Shosei-en Garden offers a peaceful setting with walking paths, seasonal flowers, and classic Japanese landscaping that gives visitors a quiet escape from the city bustle.
The new hotel is set to increase lodging options in central Kyoto, helping to accommodate visitors during busy times such as cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. Its location will enable guests to reduce travel time within the city, allowing for more efficient sightseeing and a more relaxed stay. As more people visit Kyoto, this new hotel provides an additional midscale option for both domestic and international travelers.
