HGV to open first timeshare resort in Japan

Hilton Grand Vacations (HGV) is to open the first timeshare resort in Japan after purchasing real estate from former parent company Hilton.

The deal includes existing buildings and land for development within Hilton Odawara Resort & Spa, in the Kanagawa Prefecture, and marks the second project in Japan for HGV, a leading RCI affiliate.

The company plans to add to the existing properties at the resort, creating timeshare units with ocean views, according to president and CEO, Mark Wang.

“We are pleased to announce our first resort to open in Japan, in collaboration with our esteemed partner Hilton, in this scenic location close to Tokyo, which has consistently been a top choice for vacations by our owners and guests,” he said.

“We look forward to working with the city of Odawara to promote tourism and contribute to the vibrant local economy.”

Hilton Odawara Resort & Spa is located 30 minutes by bullet train from Tokyo. The hotel was the recipient of the ‘Japan’s Leading Resort’ award from World Travel Awards in 2017.

Hilton will continue to own the hotel and resort amenities as well as manage the property, which is close to attractions such as the Fuji Hakone Izu National Park and Odawara Castle. Guests will have access to the many recreational facilities and resort amenities of Hilton Odawara Resort & Spa.

Tim Soper, Hilton’s vice president of operations for Japan, Korea and Micronesia, said: “With the Japanese government’s aim to welcome 40 million tourists by 2020, we see great continuing potential in providing more offerings to an ever-expanding and diverse group of travellers.”

“Part of how we will do so is to offer our guests the best of both worlds by working with key tourism players, including Hilton Grand Vacations.”

Renowned Japanese design firm Hashimoto Yukio Design Studio has been appointed as designer for the project.