EASTERN PROMISE

A glance at some of Japan’s recent hotel openings

- SEHER ASAF

Astring of new hotels have either opened or are preparing to debut in Japan this year, making their mark in cities including Tokyo, Kyoto, Nikko and Yokohama.

While the country is currently closed to most foreign visitors, here are some of the new hotels to check out during your next trip when international travel resumes.

Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto

Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto is Marriott’s new Luxury Collection property in Kyoto and is set to open on November 3. Designed under the brand concept “embracing Japan’s beauty”, the hotel has 161 guest rooms, including Onsen Suites with outdoor natural hot spring baths in private gardens with trees, lanterns and stonework. There are two dining outlets – Toki, which combines the traditions and techniques of French and Japanese cuisine to create a new teppan experience and Forni, an allday dining Italian restaurant. There’s a Garden Bar too, set in the beautifully landscaped grounds. Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto is the only luxury hotel in Kyoto city centre. the-luxury-collection.marriott.com

Zentis Osaka

Zentis Osaka, the first property under the new Zentis brand, opened in May in the bustling port city. The five-star hotel, which occupies a 16-storey building, features 212 rooms and suites, with the layout of each drawing inspiration from the modular design of Japanese bento boxes. F&B options include all-day dining venue Upstairz, a lounge with snacks and afternoon tea, as well as a bar serving seasonal cocktails and Japanese whiskies. Zentis says two major airports that serve Osaka – Kansai International Airport and Itami Airport (Osaka International Airport) – are located less than an hour’s drive away. zentishotels.com

The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko