Far East Hospitality, a leading hotel operator in Asia and a subsidiary of Singapore’s Far East Orchard Limited, has reinforced its presence in Japan with the launch of two new properties in Osaka. The expansion aligns with the group’s strategic five-year roadmap to double its room inventory across key Japanese cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Fukuoka to over 2,000 rooms by 2028.
This bold move comes amid a robust rebound in Japan’s international tourism. In 2024, the country welcomed 36.9 million inbound travelers, a staggering 47.1% increase from 2023, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO). Osaka, a gateway to the culturally rich Kansai region, has become one of the most visited urban destinations, further boosting demand for quality accommodations.
Two Distinct Urban Offerings in Osaka
The new properties—Far East Village Hotel Osaka, Namba South and Far East Village Hotel Osaka, Honmachi—are purposefully positioned to cater to both leisure and business travelers seeking authentic local experiences.
Far East Village Hotel Osaka, Namba South, a 77-key hotel, is nestled in the Oku-Namba district, just steps away from iconic attractions like the Namba Yasaka Shrine, Dotonbori’s neon-lit canal, and bustling Kuromon Ichiba Market. With nearby access to Daikokucho and Namba stations, the hotel offers seamless connectivity to major landmarks across the city.
In contrast, Far East Village Hotel Osaka, Honmachi is situated in the heart of Osaka’s central business district, Chuo-ku. This 165-room property is ideal for corporate guests and urban explorers, with Osaka Castle, Osaka-jo Park, and the vibrant Minami district within close proximity. The hotel also features the brand’s signature Village Passport—a curated neighborhood guide designed to help guests “live like a local” through editorially selected food, art, and culture recommendations.
Strategic Growth in Post-Pandemic Japan
Far East Hospitality’s entry into Osaka marks its fifth property in Japan within five years—an impressive trajectory that underscores its adaptability and long-term vision. The company first entered the Japanese market with Far East Village Hotel Tokyo Ariake in July 2020, at the height of global pandemic uncertainty. Since then, the brand expanded to Yokohama in 2021 and to Asakusa, Tokyo, in 2023.
According to Mark Rohner, Chief Operating Officer of Far East Hospitality, the Osaka expansion reflects the group’s deep-rooted belief in culturally immersive tourism. “We’re committed to helping travelers experience the soul of Japan by bringing our ‘Live Like a Local’ philosophy into every hotel,” Rohner said. “Osaka offers the perfect setting for this vision—with its blend of modern vibrancy and deep historical roots.”
This philosophy is increasingly resonating with global travelers, especially millennials and Gen Z, who are prioritizing experiential travel. According to JNTO, international visitor arrivals to Japan between January and October 2023 exceeded pre-pandemic levels by over 34%, indicating a strong and sustained appetite for immersive tourism.
A Partnership for Growth
The Osaka expansion was made possible through a partnership with Anglo Fortune Capital Group, which acquired the two hotel properties in prime central locations. Benjamin Cho, Principal of Anglo Fortune, emphasized the strategic value of the collaboration: “This partnership with Far East Hospitality strengthens our Japanese hospitality portfolio and supports our goal of delivering quality guest experiences in key urban centers.”
The collaboration signals further commitment to expanding in Japan’s high-growth hospitality markets, with future developments likely in Kyoto and Fukuoka—two destinations also experiencing post-pandemic visitor surges.
Enhancing Japan’s Tourism Infrastructure
Far East Hospitality’s continued growth in Japan contributes to the country’s broader tourism and economic objectives. The Japanese government’s Tourism Vision to Support the Future of Japan, introduced in 2016 and updated in recent years, aims to make Japan a “world-leading tourism nation” by improving infrastructure and diversifying regional experiences.
By increasing mid-range urban hotel offerings with localized touches, Far East Hospitality fills a critical demand gap in Japan’s accommodation market—especially as the country prepares for large-scale events such as Osaka Expo 2025.
Looking Ahead: Doubling Down on Japan
With the two Osaka properties now operational, Far East Hospitality is poised to accelerate its goal of doubling its Japan portfolio within five years. The brand is targeting high-traffic urban hubs while maintaining its commitment to localized guest experiences and cultural connection.
As Japan continues to climb global tourism rankings, Far East Hospitality’s agile, experience-focused growth strategy stands out. The group is well-positioned to tap into Japan’s surging international visitor market, offering modern comfort with local character—an increasingly valuable combination in a competitive hospitality landscape.
Conclusion
Far East Hospitality’s strategic expansion into Osaka is a testament to its resilience and forward-looking vision in the face of global uncertainty. With Japan’s tourism on a historic rise, the launch of two thoughtfully located hotels in Osaka not only enhances the city’s hospitality offerings but also strengthens the group’s growing global footprint. As travel continues to evolve, Far East Hospitality is leading the way in delivering culturally rich, immersive stays that connect guests with the soul of the destinations they visit.
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