Royal Minor & List Development to Launch First Anantara Retreat in Japan by 2030
Royal Minor Hotels Co., Ltd. (Royal Minor), a joint venture between Royal Holdings Co., Ltd. and Minor Hotels, has signed its first management contract for an Anantara property in Japan. In partnership with List Development Co., Ltd. (LD), the Anantara Karuizawa Retreat is scheduled to open in 2030 in Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture.
The new-build retreat will include 51 keys across suites and branded residences on a 10-acre forested site with views of Mount Asama. Located near the Karuizawa Shinkansen Station, the property offers convenient access from Tokyo and other cities like Nagano and Kanazawa.
The resort will feature 23 suites (60–120 sqm) and 18 two- and three-bedroom villas (70–270 sqm), with future plans for branded residences. Facilities will include three dining venues, an Anantara Spa with an onsen, wellness programming, a swimming pool, a fitness centre, a library, and meeting spaces.
The design aims to integrate natural materials such as timber and glass to blend with the environment while maximising views of Mount Asama.
Kohei Motoyama, President of Royal Minor Hotels, highlighted the partnership with LD as aligned with Anantara’s focus on distinctive stays and design. Hiroyuki Kiuchi, President and COO of List Development, noted the alignment of vision in bringing Anantara to a location recognised for its natural beauty and accessibility.
A signing ceremony was held at the Tokyo American Club on 10 July 2025. This agreement marks Royal Minor’s first signing since its establishment in March 2025. The joint venture aims to open 21 hotels in Japan under the Anantara, Tivoli, and Avani brands by 2035.
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