by Kathakali Nandi January 21, 2025 - Categories: Hospitality News, Hotels: News, IHG Hotels & Resorts has introduced its midscale conversion brand to the Asia Pacific region with the opening of its first three hotels in Japan This milestone reflects the rapid international growth of the brand relaxed stays with a focus on guest convenience The newly opened hotels — Garner Hotel Osaka Honmachi Station Garner Hotel Osaka Honmachi Midosuji and Garner Hotel Osaka Honmachi Kita Semba — welcome guests in Osaka Each property blends local culture and modern amenities catering to travelers seeking comfortable stays at competitive prices The three properties each bring their own character celebrating different facets of the city’s rich history: Each hotel also includes Osaka-themed illustrations in guest rooms along with Garner-branded sleepwear to enhance comfort As Garner continues its expansion in Japan it aims to provide “easy-going stays that get you on your way.” “We’re thrilled to bring another new brand to Japan with the opening of our first Garner hotels in Osaka,” said Abhijay Sandilya managing director for Japan & Micronesia at IHG Hotels & Resorts and CEO of IHG ANA Hotels Group Japan easy-going hotels are an increasingly popular choice for travelers in and outside of Japan and our Garner brand is perfect for those looking for a relaxed stay that’s full of character.” Garner hotels prioritize simplicity and guest-centric features A signature Garner feature wall at each hotel called ‘Sketches of Humanity,’ reflects the diversity of the brand’s guests and its mission to bring people together which will help the brand add locations in Germany You must be logged in to post a comment Get the scoop on the latest news in the hospitality industry Username can contain any letters or numbers Tokyo, Japan - IHG Hotels & Resorts continues the rapid international growth of its newest midscale conversion brand, Garner hotels, with the opening of its first three hotels in Japan marking a significant milestone as Garner expands into the Asia Pacific region are now open to guests in Japan’s second largest metropolitan city Guests can immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of the city all while experiencing the brand’s ethos of ‘easy going stays that get you on your way’ Garner hotels are designed to offer quality The brand offers the all-important things that guests value most - a central location and other items to ensure guests have everything they need during their stay At the newly opened Garner hotels in Japan self-check-in stations offer an easy arrival experience alongside local refreshments to welcome guests a signature Garner feature wall showcases ‘Sketches of Humanity’ creating a distinctive welcome moment that reflects the diversity of the brand’s guests and how Garner hotels brings people together The brand hallmark ‘Made with Character’ underpins the design of Garner hotels celebrating the diversity of the brand’s guests and properties This approach is evident at the new Garner hotels in Japan and celebrating a different era of Osaka’s history – past Osaka-themed illustrations feature on the walls and guests can get comfortable in Garner-branded sleepwear during their stay Garner Hotel Osaka Honmachi Station sees contemporary style meets the energy of Osaka This modern hotel captures the lively spirit of Osaka blending a fun atmosphere with cozy spaces that celebrate “the present” through a modern Garner Hotel Osaka Honmachi Midosuji is a fusion of tradition and modernity incorporating natural materials and a soothing colour palette based on Zen philosophy Guests will be able to take advantage of the self-check in Garner Hotel Osaka Honmachi Kita Semba is an urban tribute to the vibrant spirit of Osaka as a historic merchant town and the connections that bind its people The green-toned design embodies harmony with nature and a commitment to sustainability As part of IHG Hotels & Resorts, guests of Garner hotels can enjoy the perks of the industry-leading IHG One Rewards loyalty programme including the ability to earn and use points toward Rewards Nights and Milestone Rewards such as late check out and food and drink For more information about Garner hotels, or to book a stay, visit www.garnerhotels.com or use the IHG One Rewards mobile app IHG Hotels & Resorts [LON:IHG, NYSE:IHG (ADRs)] is a global hospitality company with a purpose to provide True Hospitality for Good With a family of 17 hotel brands and IHG Rewards one of the world's largest hotel loyalty programmes IHG has over 6,000 open hotels in more than 100 countries and a further 1,800 in the development pipeline InterContinental Hotels Group PLC is the Group's holding company and is incorporated and registered in England and Wales Approximately 350,000 people work across IHG's hotels and corporate offices globally IHG Hotels & Resorts is expanding its Garner hotel brand to Japan and Osaka Honmachi Kita Semba hotels mark the brand's first venture into the Asia Pacific region Garner hotels are designed to provide comfortable stays at affordable prices The hotels also feature a 24/7 shop offering snacks Guests checking into the new Garner hotels in Osaka are greeted with self-check-in stations and local refreshments Each hotel lobby showcases a 'Sketches of Humanity' feature wall that reflects the diversity of the hotel's guests Managing Director – Japan & Micronesia for IHG Hotels & Resorts easy-going hotels are an increasingly popular choice for travelers in and outside of Japan Our Garner brand is perfect for those looking for a relaxed stay full of character." Each Garner hotel celebrates the diversity of its guests and properties The new Japanese locations retain unique identities while paying tribute to different eras of Osaka's history guests can find Osaka-themed illustrations and Garner-branded sleepwear on the walls As part of the IHG Hotels & Resorts family guests at Garner Hotels can enjoy benefits from the IHG One Rewards loyalty program including earning points towards reward nights and other perks such as late check-out and food and drink Click here to join your colleagues and stay up to date on the latest hotel news and trends Copyright © Hotel News Resource & Nevistas | All rights reserved a conversion brand under IHG Hotels & Resorts is marking its first anniversary with a continued expansion strategy The brand launched as IHG's 19th global brand in August 2023 and it stands out for its owner-friendly model and focus on core traveler needs at an affordable price Garner Hotels expects to have over 90 hotels either open or under development worldwide opened seven weeks after its conversion in December 2023 The brand has since opened properties in Oklahoma City with upcoming openings planned in additional U.S Garner Hotels has also attracted interest from global property owners and developers resulting in 58 of the 76 properties signed in the first half of 2024 originating from European markets it will debut in Japan with the upcoming openings of Garner Hotel Osaka Honmachi Station and Garner Hotel Osaka Honmachi Kita Semba This expansion contributes to Garner Hotels' goal of having 500 hotels open worldwide in the next 10 years and 1,000 hotels in the next 20 years highlighting its appeal to owners seeking a high-quality conversion brand and travelers seeking quality The brand aims to provide a distinctive experience with amenities like a hot breakfast station Guests can also take advantage of the IHG One Rewards loyalty program Company Information TOP The Daiwa House Group’s Business Philosophy Companies and Services of Our Housing Support Companies and Services of Our Business Solution Companies and Services of Our Life Creation Investor Relations TOP For a Sustainable Future TOP Our Way to Sustainability Environmental Efforts Commitment to Society Governance SECUREA Toyota Honmachi is a multi-use development being undertaken on the site of a former elementary school in the city of Toyama The project goes under the name of a safe & Eco-smart Model City Block Development Project in Toyama City and when completed will consist of housing plus a multipurpose public facility including a community center The housing development will be the first net zero energy community* in any of the three prefectures (Toyama is the first construction in the D's SMART OFFICE brand constructed by the Group as a public-private partnership (PPP) Under the "Future City" concept being promoted by the Japanese government the "Toyama Eco-Friendly Future City Plan" proposed by the Toyama municipal government has been selected as one of these "future cities." The core policy under this plan is to link the Toyama city center area with other regional business/shopping hubs via public transportation convenient network in which all the necessary urban daily-life features are available within walking distance of everyone's home The provision of " a safe & Eco-smart Model City Block Development Project" forms one element in realizing this concept To facilitate the construction of high-quality housing that offers residents the convenience of living close to public transportation (railway or subway) lines and that is also designed to be eco-friendly the plan seeks to develop residential communities in underutilized areas served by public transportation arteries These housing developments will be safe and pleasant places to live that are also environmentally sound The Daiwa House Group was selected by an open-bidding process to undertake the first safe & Eco-smart Model City Block Development Project The housing area equipped three batteries and the development as a whole constitutes a net zero energy community The park located in the center of the community includes a number of disaster-countermeasure features The multipurpose public facility (community center and branch library) will be constructed under the build-transfer method as a public-private partnership (PPP) in which Daiwa House is responsible for planning and sells the completed project to Toyama City The city has approved the use of our "D's SMART OFFICE" brand model incorporating the use of high-performance insulation and renewable energy sources as well as equipment enabling the full range of energy generation The Daiwa House Group promotes its D's SMART Series as a construction business and its SMA×ECO PROJECT (which allows us to make proposals for low environmental impact sustainable residences and lifestyles) as a housing business we leverage the technologies we have created and the know-how we have accumulated in the fields of construction and urban development and we believe that it is an ideal opportunity to demonstrate the advantages of the public-private partnership method in the field of community development The park includes pergolas that can be converted into first-aid stations and benches that also function as toilets for use in emergencies There is also a storeroom that houses equipment for use by the residents in the event of a natural disaster and photovoltaic power generation equipment and lithium-ion batteries The park can serve as a refuge and rallying-point for the residents in the event of a major disaster All electrical cables are laid underground which may be toppled by a strong earthquake and thus obstruct traffic This reduces the likelihood of secondary damage from fires Daiwa House has signed an agreement on disaster prevention with Toyama City as part of which the facilities within the park will be used in the event of a disaster as well as the equipment kept in the storeroom As the public facility buildings will be used as a local administrative center in the event of a major disaster they are fitted not only with photovoltaic power generation systems (including lithium ion batteries) but also with a micro-cogeneration system* thereby diversifying the district's energy supply and ensuring maintenance of power Micro-cogeneration systems have the advantage of enabling faster-than-normal post-disaster recovery of gas supply because gas pressure governors are installed in the development site * The cogeneration system uses clean natural gas to drive an electric power generator Heat produced during power generation is employed in heating water and powering room-heating/cooling equipment In order to create an attractive landscape that harmonizes well with the interior design of the homes while protecting the real estate value of this development the Group has reached an agreement with the residents and laid down a set of guidelines By laying electric power distribution lines and telephone lines we have avoided the usual ugly clutter seen in Japan's residential areas caused by utility poles and the lines strung between them This gives the residents a clear and attractive view in all directions and lithium-ion batteries are owned and managed by the residents a community’s management association has been formed To ensure the maintenance of the external appearance of each house and other buildings as well as the upkeep of each home's garden and other surrounding greenery we have reached an agreement with the residents and this agreement has received the approval of the Toyama municipal government we have set up a Home Owners Committee to serve as the organizing body whereby residents can continuously maintain the terms of the agreement we have designated the details of the services entrusted to the management company as well as the contractual term of service This is to enable the community’s management association to engage in the necessary autonomous activities (holding general meetings and governing board meetings) as well as various events such as replanting by the residents themselves in the common-use greenery areas Each home is fitted with three batteries (a photovoltaic power generation system and a fuel-cell battery) and its specifications conform to those of a net zero energy house (ZEH*) a commonly-owned photovoltaic power generation system and lithium-ion batteries are also installed to supply power to the common-use spaces in the housing development the development as a whole (the residential portion only) is realized as a "net zero-energy community." The public facility is fitted with a photovoltaic power generation system The gas cogeneration system will operate during the cold months (November-April) with the waste heat from the system being used to warm the facility's main hall and corridors Taking into account the probable usage pattern and usage frequency for the individual rooms a combination of heat-pump air-conditioning units employing electric motor heat pumps and units employing gas heat pumps has been selected The SMA×ECO Cloud system is used to facilitate easy visualization of energy usage at the whole-community level * ZEH = A house whose net annual consumption of primary energy is approximately zero Environmental Policy Department Environmental Division Toyama City Regional cities in Japan are currently seeking a variety of collaborative relationships to help solve problems such as population aging—which has reached unprecedented levels—as well as labor shortages and a lack of technological skills I believe it will be important for us to form cooperative ventures with private corporations to simultaneously meet the needs of government and the private sector both private businesses and government offices must stop thinking that social issues are somebody else's problem I hope that by linking arms to realize sustainable development goals (SDGs) the government and the private sector will be able to generate new added value for everyone The project we have discussed here is a model of how we can leverage the strengths of Daiwa House Industry in the fields of new community development and multipurpose development through collaboration among many different divisions of the Company as well as with a local government authority I hope that we will be able to work with the residents as well as the staff of Toyama City Office to make this new community even better and that we will apply the know-how gained in the process to further projects in the future Developing new communities Daiwa House Industry TOP Mitsubishi's The ParkOne brand is satisfying the high demand for luxury residential property in Tokyo's trendiest areas. Why you can trust SCMP{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"ImageObject","url":"https://cdn.i-scmp.com/sites/default/files/styles/1020x680/public/2018/06/19/picture4.png?itok=oQSOvKnZ"}Advertising partnerPublished: 10:21am Tokyo's population is continuing to grow every year especially in its central business districts The Tokyo 2020 Olympics are just one factor driving the 'once-in-a-century' redevelopment of CBDs like Shinjuku and Shibuya enhancing their already considerable assets to attract more global investment With the bulk of public and private investment being dedicated to commercial and retail facilities public amenities and transport infrastructure the already high demand for housing in Tokyo's central wards has become even steeper The city's population growth has traditionally been dominated by young working singles who only require spartan accommodation but government incentives such as special economic zones are increasingly attracting foreign businesses and professionals with more selective demands One local developer working to meet this demand is Mitsubishi Jisho Residence With the resources of the multinational Mitsubishi Group behind it the developer has recruited some of Japan's foremost designers to create luxury residences fit for professionals couples and families in Tokyo's most desirable locations under its 'The ParkOne' brand The first two properties fully sold out before completion with two more currently under construction The latest is The ParkOne's Shibuya Honmachi a 14-story tower located ideally between Shinjuku and Shibuya commanding stunning views over the sparkling metropolis This marks a significant milestone in Garner Hotels' expansion into the Asia Pacific region Garner Hotels, a midscale conversion brand under IHG Hotels & Resorts, has announced the opening of its first three properties in Osaka This marks a significant milestone in the brand’s expansion into the Asia Pacific region The three new hotels comprise Garner Hotel Osaka Honmachi Station IHG Hotels & Resorts Japan and Micronesia managing director Abhijay Sandilya said: “We’re thrilled to bring another new brand to Japan with the opening of our first Garner hotels in Osaka easy-going hotels are an increasingly popular choice for travellers in and outside of Japan and our Garner brand is perfect for those looking for a relaxed stay that’s full of character We look forward to continuing the growth of this exciting new brand in Japan.” Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis The new Garner hotels in Japan feature self-check-in stations to streamline the arrival experience complemented by local refreshments as a welcome gesture is reflected in the unique design of each hotel which maintains its original identity while celebrating different aspects of Osaka’s history Each of the Garner hotels in Japan has its distinct personality with guest rooms adorned with Osaka-themed illustrations and the provision of Garner-branded sleepwear for guests The 24/7 Garner Shop at each hotel provides access to snacks Give your business an edge with our leading industry insights View all newsletters from across the GlobalData Media network Travelodge Honmachi Osaka (Location: Chuo-ku Making its debut in the lively neighborhood the hotel offers all the essentials you need for a comfortable Osaka's busiest shopping street and within walking distance to Shinsaibashi retail district the hotel boasts charm for guests travelling for business and leisure purposes The hotel is also accessible to two subway stations and four lines allowing efficient travel throughout the Kansai area and beyond it is ideal for guests travelling from all over Japan and overseas The 138 guest rooms embrace a minimalist contemporary design with creative black and white wall murals inspired by Osaka's famous landmarks giving guests a peaceful retreat from the contrast of Osaka's busy sights all rooms are equipped with en-suite bathrooms featuring bathtubs to recharge after a long day and offer convenience for guests with small children All the beds use mattresses from the brand France Bed promising a comfortable night's sleep Each room features a 40-inch TV with built-in screen mirroring to stream your favourite show and is equipped with complimentary high-speed Internet access to keep guests connected with the city's best travel destinations and your friends and family back home our Friends & Family room caters to the needs of a group of friends travelling together or extended family with children or elderly who prefer to share a room with more space the space next to the reception on the second floor is a socializing area ideal for long-stay guests and business travellers looking to work and relax beyond the guest room Breakfast features a variety of Japanese and Western dishes prepared with fresh The menu includes takoyaki and okonomiyaki and bite-sized desserts that children and elderly guests can enjoy The Social ambience inspires the space with better facilities to accommodate need such as bench desks with many power outlets the space can be used as a coworking space which also opens to walk-in guests from the local community The fee is 600 yen per hour and 2,000 yen per day The hotel has a self-service laundromat to cater to guests with children and long- stay guests and an indoor parking lot which can accommodate up to 9 vehicles The facility allows local guests travelling by car to park their vehicles while international guests on private tours can also enjoy the facility Travelodge Honmachi Osaka aims to be the first choice for the increasing number of travellers who need a fuss-free relaxing place to conveniently explore the city and conduct business activities allows guests to earn up to 5% instant cashback easily redeemable as a credit value for their next stay guests can enjoy more perks and experiences such as early check-in or late check-out at Travelodge Honmachi Osaka or any other Travelodge hotels in Asia We are now accepting reservations on the official website The special opening rate is available from 5,200 yen per room per night (plus tax) a special promotion will be held where guests can win prizes such as room vouchers and the hotel's original goods Hotel website Brand OwnerTFE Hotels Marriott has signed a deal to open a second Courtyard hotel in Osaka Owned by Sumitomo Mitsui Finance and Leasing but rented and operated by Sun Frontier Fudousan the new-build Courtyard by Marriott Osaka Honmachi hotel is expected to open in late 2019 The hotel will be the second Courtyard by Marriott in Osaka following Courtyard by Marriott Shin Osaka Station which opened in 2015 Courtyard by Marriott Osaka Honmachi will offer 193 guestrooms and suites The hotel will feature an all-day dining venue that features an open kitchen concept and serves buffet and à-la-carte options The venue is also accessible from the street attracting a mix of guests and Osaka locals The hotel's other features will include a meeting room Located in the Honmachi area facing the main street Courtyard by Marriott Osaka Honmachi is situated within an one-minute walk from Sakaisuji Honmachi Station The 17-storey hotel also offers convenient access to various tourist attractions in Osaka including Semba Center Building containing more than 1,000 wholesalers retail and dining facilities located in and around Shinsaibashi and Nagahoribashi areas Other attractions including the historic Osaka Castle and Universal Studios Japan is all within easy access from the hotel Hotel website Brand OwnerMarriott International, Inc. Japanese real-estate developer Global Agents has just announced the second edition of its new lifestyle hotel brand "THE LIVELY" with a grand opening set for mid-August 2019 The first location in the series will open in Hakata Fukuoka in July 2019 and has already begun to attract curious travelers eager to experience cutting edge accommodations in an increasingly competitive market. The next edition in the series will be located in Japan's second largest metropolitan area Osaka in the so-called "heart of the city," the Honmachi District A third location is already scheduled to open later this year in Tokyo but details are yet to be released. The Lively Osaka Honmachi will offer guests a cutting edge mix of urban street-art aesthetics and a high-tech smart-hotel experience Music is also an integral part of The Lively brand and guests will be able to enjoy unique beats from professional DJs who will curate special playlists to enhance their stay Guests will be offered a hotel experience that is tailored to their lifestyle through the implementation of unique common areas The lobby of The Lively Honmachi Osaka will double as a stylish lounge with luxurious sofas and a projector area for watching films to encourage interaction Guests will also be able to take their conversation outside and enjoy a fire pit on the outdoor terrace. "THE LIVERALLY" will offer digital nomads a large and colorful co-working space that can also be used for banquets and events The open space is designed to encourage communication between travelers and local entrepreneurs Guests can also spoil themselves with an incredible meal at the in-house restaurant "THE LIVELY KITCHEN," an urban trattoria with a modern twist The Lively Kitchen will deliver an original menu of Italian & Japanese fusion providing guests with a variety of incredible culinary experiences guests can move to the top floor of the hotel and enjoy a brew or original cocktail at "THE LIVELY BAR." The bar will offer an unlimited free beer happy hour every day in addition to an original cocktail menu that will deliver on intense yet clean flavors "THE ROOF," is also open any time of the day for guests to enjoy a stunning view of Osaka to compliment their craft cocktail With 174 rooms and five different room types The Lively Hotel Osaka Hommachi will offer suitable options for both leisure and business travelers. Each room will be equipped with a premium mattress from American manufacturer SERTA These mattresses are on average 1.5 times thicker than a typical hotel mattress and utilize gel foam on top which gently wraps around the body to provide customers with the ultimate relaxing experience Honmachi is conveniently located in the heart of Osaka within walking distance of both Kita (to the north) and Minami (to the south) Osaka The area is well known for high-quality restaurants and bars The world famous Osaka-Jo Castle is also within walking distance. The hotel is located a mere 1-minute walk from Sakaisuji Honmachi Station on the Subway Chuo Line and Sakaisuji line allowing easy access to all majors sightseeing spots Global Agents is a rising name among Japanese property developers with a portfolio specializing in community living and common spaces The young company of just fourteen years has quickly expanded its portfolio of residential properties and hotel operations and plans to continue expanding further into each market in years to come The bedrock of Globals Agents' portfolio is Social Apartment a brand of co-living spaces that have gained cult popularity with its focus on clean and stylish common areas that encourage resident interaction Social Apartment's core design philosophy is deeply rooted in "Gathering places" and the company continues to expand its popularity by creating innovative new spaces that facilitate dialogue and nurture unique micro-communities within bustling metropolitan areas. Global Agents has made great strides in the hotel industry in recent years and continues to expand its hotel operations at a rapid rate The company currently owns and manages 8 lifestyle hotels with plans to open five new hotels throughout Japan in the coming year as well as their first international hotel in Taipei (Taiwan) After becoming IHG’s 19th global brand in August 2023 Garner hotels continues to build momentum through an owner-friendly conversion model commitment to excellent service and prioritization of core traveler needs at an affordable price point By the close of 2024, Garner hotels anticipates having more than 90* open or in pipeline hotels around the world. The first Garner hotel, Garner Auburn – Seattle opened in December 2023 within seven weeks of the start of its conversion precede recent and planned upcoming openings in additional U.S This strong start furthers the brand’s progress towards a goal of having 500 hotels open worldwide during the next 10 years and 1,000 hotels during the next 20 The latest openings for Garner hotels in the Americas and beyond illustrate the growth and momentum we are building and the brand’s potential to redefine the midscale space Garner hotels already is resonating with owners seeking a high-quality conversion brand backed by a simple operating model that inspires confidence in strong returns as well as value driven travelers seeking quality price-friendly stays that provide what’s most important to them including the ability to earn and use points toward Rewards Nights and Milestone Rewards such as late check out and food and beverage incentives For more information about Garner hotels, or to book a stay, visit www.garnerhotels.com or use the IHG One Rewards mobile app *All numbers as of Q3 2024 unless noted otherwise Marriott International today announced the openings of two fresh new additions to its Moxy Hotels brand: Moxy Tokyo Kinshicho and Moxy Osaka Honmachi.  Owned by Tokyo-based Pacifica Capital K.K. the 205-room Moxy Tokyo Kinshicho features the brand's industrial-chic DNA with stylish exposed brick walls polished concrete floors and fun collaborative spaces The hotel is located in the urban Kinshicho district close to some of the city's coolest tourist attractions such as the Tokyo Skytree Tokyo Dome and the historic Asakusa Sensoji Temple Kinshicho station is only a five-minute walk away making access a breeze from Narita and Haneda international airports "Today's consumer is less desirous of a cookie cutter experience and in fact wants to discover something new whether he/she is there for a day or a week," says Hisashi Oinuma Moxy Osaka Honmachi is owned by EGW Asset Management Inc. and is located just steps away from Honmachi Station This 155-room Moxy is the perfect playground for modern urban explorers in Osaka The hotel is located within easy distance of Osaka Castle the food and nightlife of the Shinsaibashi quarter and the amazing shopping of Namba district "Moxy is specifically designed for this new generation of travelers – we call them Fun Hunters – who are looking for a hotel environment that allows them to have an experience on their terms," says Shigeki Nakagawa "They want a hotel that is wired to their specific needs Say hello to fellow travellers in Moxy's living rooms designed as highly-social communal areas complete with foosball tables and board games The Moxy Digital Guestbook is the source for everything that's going on as well as a social media wall for guests to post their own #AttheMoxy Instas lifts double as selfie-friendly photo booths with locally inspired props for inspiration Moxy's NOW + WOW communal spaces will come alive with thoughtfully crafted happenings designed by the hotels' crew to cater to travelers and locals who like to hang-out with their friends and meet new ones At Moxy Osaka Honmachi and Moxy Tokyo Kinshicho these events will take the form of jam sessions Bedrooms are minimalist yet multifunctional walk-in rain showers and furiously fast and free WiFi The hotels' 24/7 self-service grab-and-go concept The bar serves up Moxy's signature cocktails and naans with savoury or sweet fillings: bacon guests can 'pimp their noodles' with a selection of instant noodles and condiment stations to customise their own flavours "We threw out the rule book for conventional hotel models to create Moxy's Moxy Tokyo Kinshicho and Moxy Osaka Honmachi," says Mike Fulkerson "These two new brand additions will continue to show the world what "moxie" really means and encourage our guests to play on."  modern travelers looking for a place to stay that echoes their ethos for travel now have a place to (temporarily) call home as they set out to explore the prefectures There are some things you won’t find in these two hotels You won’t find boring interiors or over-the-top amenities but you also won’t find a traditional closet that takes up too much space or a mini fridge stocked with foods and drinks that have been untouched for months (because no one wants to buy a $12 mini bag of nuts) What you will find is a peg wall that holds all the furniture so you can configure your own space regular and USB outlets in near reach instead of the dusty corner and a waterfall shower that rejuvenates you with the energy of a rising sun after a long day of walking (see what I did there?) You’ll also find an affordable price tag saving you money on things you didn’t really want in the first place These are the design decisions that separate the Moxy Hotels from other hotels The brand caters to a special group of globe-trotters with a specific mindset adventurous travelers who aren’t looking to stay in the hotel rooms when they’re traveling who want to mingle and talk with fellow travelers in the communal spaces during event nights and who would rather collect experiences over miniature toiletries from the bathroom Some traditional amenities were still kept It’s just that the Moxy Hotels have created these spaces in their own playful way The Moxy Hotels are throwing the traditional hotel handbook out the window and rewriting it so that it’s relevant for today’s lifestyles With 20 hotels already opened and 86 hotels in the works it’s a relief to know that anyone who wants to travel on a budget without sacrificing design and experience really can have it all at the Moxy As the Senior Contributing Editor, Vy Yang is obsessed with discovering ways to live well + with intention through design. She's probably sharing what she finds over on Instagram stories. You can also find her at vytranyang.com FiiO'S sub-brand Snowsky has launched the Retro Nano user-friendly vinyl flattening machine that restores warped records to their original shape using precision heat technology Zaha Hadid Architects transforms public transit at the KAFD Metro Station in Riyadh with futuristic architecture Full of natural materials and respect for modern Swedish design the STOCKHOLM 2025 collection from IKEA debuts 96 new pieces You’ll always hear it from Design Milk first Our passion is discovering and highlighting emerging talent and we’re energized by and for our community of like-minded design lovers — like you A woman ritually comes to the small coastal town of Honmachi every couple of weeks she seeks comfort and reassurance not from praying at the town’s Gokogu Shrine but from one of its residents But she’s devastated to find that he’s not at his usual spot This is clearly an important ritual to her Cats are to Honmachi what pigeons are to most cities Every shot of the temple or quiet city streets is littered with cats sleeping begging for food (cat owners will know that these are the only three things that cats do) The whole film you’re playing spot the cat Affection for these cats is everywhere too from the schoolchildren who play and tease them to the volunteers who feed and care for them it seems that the cat population is the only notable thing about an otherwise sleepy little town But through watching and chatting to the residents we realise that Honmachi is a rapidly aging community An air of nostalgia hangs over the town like a thick fog Many residents have lived in the town their whole lives and reminisce about playing on the temple’s stone steps that they now hobble up An 88-year-old man tends to the plants around the temple He remembers being in middle school during World War 2 when children were forced into manual labour He is passionate about caring for the local plants but he’s less keen on the cats there being those who adore them and those who choose their words carefully It speaks to the low stakes of the film that the most dramatic point of contention revolves around cat poop the stuff is everywhere and some residents bemoan how eager people are to fawn over cats but shirk the responsibility of cleaning up after them It’s hard not to see parallels between the cats and the growing elderly population of Honmachi There’s a common fear among older people in Japan about becoming a burden and a nuisance on the younger generations That may be one reason why so many interviewed are still working well past 70 efforts to shrink the cat population through neutering and spaying are met positively with an encouraging remark that they’re getting closer to “exterminating” the problem But what of the greying people of Honmachi of the care and attention they provide to the temple along with the ancient rituals and practices that have endured in both the town and Japan for millennia The Cats of Gokogu Shrine calls itself an observational film though that implies a level of objectivity that is just not possible in film subjectivity seeps through every aspect of the filmmaking process from picking the right lens to nailing down the final cut Probably a better way to interpret its definition of “observational” is through its treatment of its subjects no digging around for dirt or past scandals the small tasks carried out by passionate volunteers become magnified Before The Cats of Gokogu Shrine‘s end credits an in-memoriam section shows not just the people but also the cats who have passed away since filming All are treated with the same level of dignity and respect Featured Image Credit Will is a freelance writer from the flat boglands of Westmeath He doesn't put any jokes in his profile blurb document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute("id","a5f258f0dedbf79782f50e077f048e3d");document.getElementById("fc3eab9813").setAttribute("id","comment"); and website in this browser for the next time I comment DMCA Request HeadStuff.org is a collaborative hub for the creative and the curious We all spend so much of our time clicking through reams of content and sometimes not reading anything of interest at all HeadStuff is all about putting buckets of interesting stuff in one place So it's easy for you to find and enjoy high quality content from our wonderful contributors We get up every morning to make your daily journey through the internet more interesting and productive Today's print edition Home Delivery “We wanted to escape,” he recalls.googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1499653692894-0'); }); They headed to Ushimado, a small coastal town in Okayama Prefecture, western Japan, where Kashiwagi has family roots. The couple had frequently vacationed there in the past, and had also shot a pair of films, “Oyster Factory” (2015) and “Inland Sea” (2018) they relocated permanently after 27 years in New York — and not too long afterward In a time of both misinformation and too much information quality journalism is more crucial than ever.By subscribing Your subscription plan doesn't allow commenting. To learn more see our FAQ Sponsored contents planned and edited by JT Media Enterprise Division Share your travel photos with us by hashtagging your images with #visitjapanjp *This article is based on the information as of November 2022 and the latest status may have changed The main street of the castle town is called Honmachi-dori a 600m long street lined with old style buildings and houses reminiscent of the Edo period cafés and souvenir shops lining both sides of the street at least don’t miss your chance to take as many photos as possible here I walked around 7 minutes to Inuyama Castle Inuyama Castle is located just at the end of Honmachi-dori and is a fine example of a samurai castle still in its original structure Browse the JNTO site in one of multiple languages Please upgrade to a more modern version to fully experience JapanToday site and for security reasons “We are very excited to continue growing our reach in Japan with the Courtyard by Marriott brand,” said Paul Foskey “The expansion of our hotels reflects a solid increase in the demand of both business and leisure travelers in the cosmopolitan Japanese city and we are here to deliver our international standards of hospitality through our exciting collaboration with Sun Frontier Fudosan and its subsidiary Courtyard by Marriott Osaka Honmachi will offer 193 guest rooms and suites The hotel’s other features will include a meeting room The 17-story hotel also offers convenient access to various tourist attractions in Osaka including Semba Center Building containing more than 1,000 wholesalers Use your Facebook account to login or register with JapanToday you will also receive an email inviting you to receive our news alerts A mix of what's trending on our other sites Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon The best of Singapore straight to your inbox We help you navigate a myriad of possibilities Sign up for our newsletter for the best of the city By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news Sign up for our email to enjoy Singapore without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush) Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions. Singapore Moxy Osaka Honmachi is the destination for music-savvy travellers in search of fun throughout their travel journey The hotel is located within easy reach of Osaka Castle the dynamic food and nightlife scene of the Shinsaibashi quarter where you’ll receive a complimentary welcome “Get Moxy” cocktail before settling into your room with each room featuring a modular design where furniture is hung up on the walls to encourage maximisation of space.  Moxy Osaka Honmachi offers expansive communal spaces equipped with an array of board games providing travellers with opportunities to have a blast and socialise with both old and new friends Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon! tiktokfacebooktwitteryoutubeAbout us Contact us FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2023 PlayLoading... Offering a lifestyle experience with stylish designs and prime locationsAs it continues expanding in Asia, Lub d has announced plans to launch new hotels in three key destinations – Osaka, Japan, Koh Tao, and Bangkok's Chinatown Samyot, Thailand.  “The plans to launch the three new Lub d properties are part of Narai Hospitality Group’s strategic business expansion plan. The new properties will reinforce the strength of the group’s effort to expand its presence in Asia’s hospitality industry, building on our experience of running the hotel and service business in Thailand for over half a century,” says Nathee Nithivasin, CEO of Narai Hospitality Group. "We currently manage five properties under the Lub d brand, situated both domestically and overseas. Three are in Thailand, one in Siem Reap, Cambodia, and another in Makati, Manila, the Philippines. Looking ahead, Lub d Osaka Honmachi is scheduled to launch in September 2023. Additionally, Lub d Koh Tao is set to open in the first quarter of the upcoming year, followed by Lub d Chinatown Samyot in the third quarter." Lub d Koh Tao, located on Tanote Bay, a world top 20 snorkeling destination, is a property ideally situated in front of a quiet beach that boasts pristine white sand and clear water. As Koh Tao has long been a popular destination for scuba divers, Lub d Koh Tao will have a diving school offering lessons just steps from your room. The Koh Tao property is perfect for those who love adventure as the thrill of scuba diving. Lub d Koh Tao will open in the first quarter of 2024. Scheduled to open in the third quarter of 2024, Lub d Chinatown Samyot will boast a strategic location near the MRT Sam Yot , in close proximity to various temples in the area as well as Ong Ang Walking Street. The hotel will be perfect for those who enjoy the vintage atmosphere of the Chinese community that is full of charm and well-known for delicious street food. The lively vibes of Yaowarat will never fail to offer unforgettable experiences for visitors. "As Lub d continues to grow across Asia, we transform to meet the changing needs of modern travelers, seeking accommodations that provide more than just a place to sleep," says Nithida Nithivasin, CEO of Lub d. "Our properties provide social spaces and engaging activities that facilitate meaningful connections and experiences for young travelers. We aim to be an energizing home-base for exploring new destinations." "By focusing on building community, Lub d delivers the ideal balance of comfort, convenience and style that modern explorers are looking for in a lifestyle accommodation brand." Thai Schools Gear Up for Term Start with Safety Checks and Tablet Rollout Tawee visits Narathiwat, pledges to tighten security for Buddhist communities Trump orders 100% tariff on foreign-made movies to save 'dying' Hollywood Ratchada Night Market Shuts Doors Suddenly, Leaving Businesses in the Lurch Chadchart confident search for 14 missing workers will be completed in four days 　滋賀県の三日月大造知事が広島県庁を訪れ、山根健嗣副知事と平和施策を巡って意見交換した。三日月知事は次世代に戦争や被爆の悲惨さを伝えるため被爆地との連携を強める.. 　今回の調査では、壁画制作が実現しなかった主な理由として、広島訪問から２年と経（た）たない間にヘリングが他界したことが挙げられるという結論に至った。５月１８日ま.. 　「核廃絶は使命。このままでは死ねない」。その決意を胸に、広島で被爆した金本弘さん（８０）＝名古屋市＝が４月３０日、米ニューヨークの国連本部に集った各国の外交官.. 　１９４６年５月１日。中国新聞社が雑誌「月刊中国」を創刊した。広島市上流川町（現中区）の本社で印刷。「雑誌と言へば中央と考へられてゐた旧観念を脱し、地方文化の昂.. 　いつからだろうか。喜びあふれる光景が大通りになじんできたのは。広島市中心部を東西に貫く平和大通りは今月、鶴見橋から新己斐橋までの約４キロが全通して６０年を迎え.. 　私は長崎で生まれ育ったが、反戦・反核に対する思いが絶えず心の中で燃えていたかといえばそうではない。平穏に、平凡に暮らしてきた。それでも、先人たちの話を聞きなが.. 　中村キース・ヘリング美術館で５月１８日まで開催中の「Ｋｅｉｔｈ　Ｈａｒｉｎｇ：　Ｉｎｔｏ　２０２５　誰がそれをのぞむのか」展は、ヘリングの幼少期を振り返ること.. 　１９６６年、１９歳で中学を卒業した川下ヒロエさん（７９）＝広島市東区＝はこの年、被爆者健康手帳を取得した。当時住んでいたのは北九州市。母兼子さん（２０１４年に.. 　国際社会は危機感を持ち、歯止めの議論に入るべきだ。スウェーデンのストックホルム国際平和研究所（ＳＩＰＲＩ）が、２０２４年の世界の軍事費支出を発表した。２兆７１.. 　動物文学で知られる椋鳩十（むくはとじゅう）に、おどろおどろしい題名の異色作がある。「地獄島とロシア水兵」だ。舞台は萩の沖合４５キロに浮かぶ見島。１２０年前の５.. 　全ての命を守るため―をテーマに掲げていた。ローマ教皇フランシスコによる６年前の来日である。被爆地広島、長崎のほか、地震・津波・原発事故という三重の災害に見舞わ.. 俳優の吉永小百合さんは、これまで胎内被爆者の芸者を演じた「夢千代日記」などに出演してきたほか、原爆詩朗読CD「第二楽章」を制作しています。中国新聞創刊１３０周年記念として、３編の朗読映像を公開します。(写真は三浦憲治氏撮影) 中国軍管区司令部で被爆した八木さんの革脚絆＝１９７３年、八木実さん寄贈（撮影・山田尚弘） Although born into a family of merchants in southwestern Japan Edo-Period illustrator Kinzo (1812-76) was endowed with such outstanding skills that as an adolescent he moved to Tokyo to study at the prestigious Kano painting school he continued his career by serving a local patriarch as his personal illustrator a scandal that eventually cost him his job He later pioneered a genre called shibai-ebyobu in which he visually summarized storylines of kabuki plays or joruri narrative music in giant folding screens On show are a total of 200 paintings by Kinzo and his apprentices; till Dec The Museum of Art, Kochi; (088) 866-8000; 353-2 Takasu, Kochi-shi, Kochi; Kochi Station, JR Line. 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (Nov. 3 till 8 p.m.); ¥850 (Free admission on Nov. 3). www.kochi-bunkazaidan.or.jp/~museum/index.html.googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1499653692894-0'); }); A moderate magnitude 4.3 earthquake occurred in the East China Sea near Goshonoura-jima island The depth of the quake could not be determined but is assumed to be shallow.The quake was not felt (or at least not reported so) Seki City is a world-class hub of traditional and modern Japanese swords and cutlery Neighboring Mino City and Gujo City to its north It is a destination for knife and blade enthusiasts and those who want to meet modern-day samurai Seki cradled a sword-making tradition that thrived for a couple of hundred years since the 14th century The city owes the bloom of this industry to the abundance of natural resources needed for sword and blade-making As Japan took on the road to modernization the industry eventually evolved into cutlery production and remains as one of the top producers of blade products in the world Celebrating tradition: Seki Cutlery Festival The city celebrates the sword and cutlery tradition through the Seki Cutlery Festival The festival especially honors master swordsmith Motoshige who is said to be the father of sword-making in Seki many stalls showcasing and selling cutlery line up along Honmachi-dori There are traditional performances and demonstrations of forging swords the local community will not miss out on showcasing their local delicacy as well; Seki Cutlery Festival also features shops that offer specialties such as Seki milk You can watch an iai performance for free at Hamonoya Sanshu in Seki City if you want to learn more about bladesmithing Cutler Sanshu (also Hamonoya Sanshu) acquaints Seki’s visitors with the city’s leading industry It contains a gallery displaying various cutlery and swords as well as an introduction to the cutlery manufacturing process There are free fun experiences such as watching an iaido performance Other activities include mini-scissors production experience They have a shop visited by people from around the country to get exceptionally sharp blade products like household knives Also read: Cutler Sanshu in Gifu, Japan: A Trip to the World of Samurai Swords you can take the JR train to Mino-Ota Station and then transfer to the Nagaragawa Railway going to Seki Station The trip takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes if from Nagoya and 1 hour if coming from Gifu.