IHG Hotels & Resorts Introduces voco Osaka Central: A Premium Hotel Experience in Japan

IHG Hotels & Resorts, a prominent global hotel company with over 6,000 hotels spanning 18 unique brands, has introduced its esteemed voco hotels brand to Japan with the unveiling of voco Osaka Central. In partnership with UD Hospitality Management, voco Osaka Central presents a distinctive and refreshing accommodation experience in Japan, embodying the brand’s delightful character, attentive service, vibrant yellow accents, and commitment to sustainability.

Launched in 2018, voco hotels is one of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ rapidly expanding brands, featuring 46 operational hotels and an additional 50 exciting destinations in the pipeline. The brand’s entry into Japan was commemorated with an inauguration ceremony at voco Osaka Central, attended by esteemed guests from NTT Urban Development Corporation, The Zenitaka Corporation, and the Osaka Convention and Tourism Bureau. As a symbol of the brand’s dedication to the local community, the traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony took a unique twist, as guests simultaneously untied knots in turmeric-dyed furoshiki cloth, symbolizing Voco’s commitment to responsible travel practices.

Introducing voco Osaka Central, situated in Kyomachibori, Osaka. This vibrant area has long been a hub for locals and tourists alike, known historically for its bustling markets that have thrived since ancient times. voco Osaka Central benefits from its convenient location, just 3-5 minutes away from Osaka Metro stations such as Higobashi, Honmachi, and Yodoyabashi, providing easy access to the town’s colorful and culturally rich offerings.

Built on the site of the renowned Kyomachi Building, which has been an emblematic structure in Kyomachi Bori since its completion in 1926, voco Osaka Central pays homage to its heritage through art pieces and decor that evoke the city’s history, allowing guests to connect with the stories and legacy of the past century. The interior design incorporates elements inspired by the ‘Storehouse,’ a prominent symbol of Kyomachibori, evident in the natural materials adorning the lobby and restaurant areas.

The hotel boasts 191 guestrooms and suites, each embodying the brand’s philosophy of providing a ‘me time’ experience with comfortable bedding and luxurious amenities that make guests feel right at home. The rooms blend Western and traditional influences, featuring traditional Japanese seating areas and the elegance of Japanese architecture.

Exquisite dining options offer guests a taste of the ‘voco life,’ including vibrant social spaces designed for relaxation and enjoyment by both guests and locals. The hotel’s signature restaurant, Lokal House, showcases an open kitchen where culinary performances unfold, drawing inspiration from Western grilling techniques. The restaurant embraces a philosophy of crafting creative dishes that incorporate local culinary traditions and seasonal ingredients. Highlights include the Bombette truffle risotto, a fusion of Osaka’s local shish-kebabs and pork delicacies from Puglia in southern Italy, the hometown of Voco’s head chef. Adjacent to Lokal House, the hotel’s bar & café provides a cozy setting for guests to unwind throughout the day, from morning coffees to pre-dinner beverages and nightcaps before a restful sleep.

Additional amenities for guests include a 24-hour gym and fitness room, as well as versatile meeting and event spaces for various occasions.