HGV to open its first timeshare resort in Japan
Hilton Grand Vacations (HGV) is to open its first dedicated timeshare resort in the Japanese market in 2021.
HGV and Hilton have teamed up with Mori Trust for the project, which will involve the construction of a new mixed-use development on Sesokojima Island, Okinawa.
The new-build development, to be constructed by Mori Trust, will comprise a 132-unit timeshare resort that will be owned and managed by Hilton Grand Vacations, as well as a Hilton-managed hotel with approximately 300 rooms.
Hilton Okinawa Sesoko Resort is set to open in 2020, while the HGV timeshare resort is expected to commence operations in 2021.
Under HGV’s timeshare system, ownership of the resort will be sold on a weekly basis, with owners able to build a stay schedule based on their needs. Ownership styles range from “fixed week” and “flex week,” and on-season and off-season, and can be changed according to preference. Options of a spacious home-like accommodation with full kitchens, extra bedrooms and plenty of living space are available for purchase.
The Hilton Grand Vacations Club on Sesokojima Island will offer ocean and sunset views for each of its luxury one-, two- and three-bedroom units, along with private balconies and full kitchens. Hilton Grand Vacation Club owners and guests will have full use of the facilities at the rest of the development, as well as the use of a private pool within the building.
The development is close to a number of attractions and the untouched nature and beautiful beaches of northern Okinawa are also within easy reach. The development will also offer stunning views of Iejima Island, which lies directly across the ocean.
Hilton Okinawa Sesoko Resort is set to open in 2020
Mark Wang, HGV’s president and CEO, said: “The Hilton Grand Vacations Club on Sesokojima Island will be HGV’s first announced project in Japan, as well as in Asia, and forms part of the company’s strategy to develop properties where HGV’s owners and guests want to travel.
“Hilton Grand Vacations is very pleased to work with such esteemed partners as Mori Trust and Hilton to deliver an exceptional resort experience in this very scenic Okinawa location.
“We have more than 56,000 Club Member families in Japan, with Okinawa being a top requested domestic destination, and we believe there will be strong demand for this resort from both existing and prospective owners. Additionally, this project marks an important step in our long-term approach to development in Asia.”
Okinawa is a popular domestic and international tourist destination, and has enjoyed record visitor growth for the past four years, with inbound and domestic traveller numbers increasing by 11 per cent to reach 8.6 million in 2016 compared with the previous year.
Miwako Date, president of Mori Trust, said: “In addition to announcing our partnership with Hilton Grand Vacations and Hilton, Mori Trust is delighted to introduce the attractions of Japan to international travellers through Sesokojima Island, a place surrounded by beautiful beaches and the ocean.
“Located near to Okinawa Chura-umi Aquarium, world heritage site Nakijin Castle, and Motobu Port, which is expected to support the arrival and docking of large cruise ships, Sesokojima Island is an excellent choice for extended-stay guests. Our cooperation with Hilton Grand Vacations and Hilton, which have a strong legacy in hospitality, ensures that both domestic and international travellers, including those planning mid- to long-term stays, will enjoy their experience.”
