IHG Hotels & Resorts introduces its collection brand to Japan for the first time.
IHG Hotels & Resorts has officially launched its Vignette Collection in Japan with the rebranding of RIHGA Royal Hotel Osaka. As the first hotel in Japan to be part of the collection, RIHGA Royal Hotel Osaka, Vignette Collection combines its rich heritage with a refreshed experience for modern travellers to enjoy a unique stay in memorable destinations.
Located in Nakanoshima, known as the “City of Water,” the hotel has been a key site for international and cultural exchange since its opening in 1935. Over the decades, it has welcomed foreign dignitaries, imperial families, and VIPs.
Following an extensive renovation, the hotel now offers over 1,000 updated rooms, including a remarkable 700-square-metre suite. Guests can enjoy 18 distinctive restaurants and bars, a fitness centre, and event facilities featuring 56 banquet rooms. In addition, globally renowned Japanese fashion designer Junko Koshino has designed new uniforms for the hotel staff, further elevating its refined presentation.
A Unique Grand Opening
To celebrate its launch under the Vignette Collection, the hotel hosted a distinctive ribbon-cutting ceremony. Rather than the traditional ribbon, the opening featured a Japanese tenugui hand towel, dyed using Osaka’s “Chusen” technique. Inspired by the surrounding rivers, the tenugui symbolises the lasting partnership between RIHGA Royal Hotel Osaka and IHG Hotels & Resorts.
Expanding the Vignette Collection in Japan
Abhijay Sandilya, Managing Director – Japan & Micronesia for IHG Hotels & Resorts and CEO of IHG ANA Hotels Group Japan, expressed excitement about the milestone, calling it a significant step in IHG’s rapidly growing portfolio.
“RIHGA Royal Hotel Osaka perfectly embodies the Vignette Collection, a brand that is set to reach 100 hotels worldwide within its first decade. This hotel retains its unique character while delivering the exceptional experience that guests expect from IHG,” Sandilya said.
Three years after launching the collection, IHG is already more than halfway towards its goal of reaching 100 open and pipeline hotels in 10 years. The Vignette Collection brings together hotels with unique identities while uniting them under a shared commitment to authentic travel experiences.
A Balance of Tradition and Responsibility
Each Vignette Collection hotel is distinguished by its Memorable Rituals and A Means For Good initiatives:
- Memorable Rituals – Each hotel embraces local culture through unique traditions. At RIHGA Royal Hotel Osaka, guests can experience Furumai-cha, a traditional tea ceremony accompanied by classical Japanese music, played on a Steinway & Sons SPIRIO piano in the Main Lounge daily from 3-5pm.
- A Means For Good – Vignette Collection hotels partner with charitable organisations to support positive change in their communities. RIHGA Royal Hotel Osaka will assist secondary and high school students in need with educational programmes to aid their self-development.
Earlier this year, Vignette Collection also partnered with the World Literacy Foundation, supporting its mission to eliminate illiteracy by 2040.
IHG’s Growing Luxury & Lifestyle Portfolio
Over the past five years, IHG has significantly expanded its presence in the luxury and lifestyle segment. The portfolio has grown from one to six brands, with more than 500 properties in over 70 countries, making it one of the largest luxury hotel collections worldwide.
Vignette Collection is IHG’s first collection brand, offering distinct hotels that offer individuality with IHG’s global strength. For hotel owners, it provides access to IHG’s enterprise benefits while maintaining each property’s character. For guests, it delivers an engaging experience, complemented by the advantages of IHG One Rewards.
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