Far East Hospitality Expands in Japan with Two New Hotels in Osaka

Far East Hospitality Expands in Japan with Two New Hotels in Osaka

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 16, 2025

Far East Hospitality is strengthening its foothold in Japan with the launch of two new properties in Osaka under its Far East Village brand. The newly opened Far East Village Hotel Osaka, Namba South and Far East Village Hotel Osaka, Honmachi mark the group’s strategic move to deepen its presence in Japan’s key cities, aiming to operate 2,000 rooms across Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Fukuoka in the next five years.

These launches reflect Far East Hospitality’s ongoing growth momentum since its Japan debut in 2020, even during global travel challenges. The group already operates hotels in Tokyo Ariake, Yokohama, and Tokyo Asakusa  and now, with these Osaka additions, celebrates five openings in five years.

Located in the heart of Oku-Namba, the 77-room Far East Village Hotel Osaka, Namba South caters to both leisure and business travellers. It’s a stone’s throw from hotspots like Dotonbori and Namba Yasaka Shrine, with excellent connectivity via Daikokucho and Namba Stations—ideal for exploring the Kansai region.

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In contrast, Far East Village Hotel Osaka, Honmachi, with 165 rooms, is tucked inside Chuo-ku, Osaka’s central business district. Just steps away from the iconic Osaka Castle and Minami district, it offers a perfect blend of city convenience and cultural richness.

Speaking about the group’s strategy, Mark Rohner, Chief Operating Officer of Far East Hospitality, said, “Far East Hospitality's expansion into Osaka is a pivotal step towards our five-year goal of expanding to 2,000 rooms in Japan. We are focused on strengthening the Far East Village brand in the country's key cities, particularly those with vibrant business and leisure appeal.”

Far East Hospitality’s expansion is supported by a partnership with Anglo Fortune Capital Group, the company behind the acquisition of these hotels. Benjamin Cho, Principal of the group, added, “Our entry into the Osaka market through the acquisition of two centrally located hotels and our partnership with Far East Hospitality for their management marks an exciting milestone in the continued growth of our hotel portfolio.”

Japan’s tourism industry has seen a strong rebound, with international arrivals surging past pre-pandemic levels. In 2024, the country welcomed a record 36.9 million visitors, reflecting growing interest in culturally rich, immersive travel experiences — something Far East Hospitality aims to offer through its ‘Live Like a Local’ approach.

This signature philosophy encourages travellers to explore the city beyond the usual sights. Guests receive a Village Passport, a locally curated guidebook filled with recommendations on attractions, eateries, and hidden gems—allowing them to experience Osaka as a local would.

With a sharp focus on authentic, purpose-driven hospitality, the group’s approach is not just about stays but about creating a sense of connection with the destination. Personalized service, attention to detail, and warm interactions define the guest experience at Village Hotels.

As Far East Hospitality continues to grow across Japan’s tourism hotspots, its commitment to delivering meaningful and memorable travel experiences remains front and centre and Osaka is just the beginning of this exciting chapter.


Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor Hosts New Exhibition Featuring Leading Khmer Artists

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor Hosts New Exhibition Featuring Leading Khmer Artists

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 5, 2025

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, the iconic 93-year-old luxury retreat near Cambodia’s ancient Angkor sites, has launched a new art exhibition titled “Harmony.” The show highlights the works of two of Cambodia’s most prominent contemporary artists, Morn Chear and Nak Noy, both natives of Siem Reap.

Curated by Nat Di Maggio from Tribe Art Gallery, the exhibition captures the intricate beauty of Cambodia’s natural environment through vivid depictions of birds, elephants, fish, and other wildlife. Beyond artistic expression, these creatures serve as symbols of Khmer heritage, folklore, and everyday life. At a time when environmental concerns are more pressing than ever, “Harmony” invites viewers to reflect on the importance of preserving nature for future generations.

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The exhibition is on display in the hotel’s elegant public spaces, and guests can also enjoy private guided tours led by the resident artists. Running through September, this initiative is part of the hotel’s ongoing cultural series, which began earlier this year with a showcase by renowned Khmer painter Channy Chhoeun.

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Opened in 1932 as a haven for explorers and archeologists visiting Angkor Wat, Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor continues to celebrate Cambodia’s rich heritage. Its ‘Curated Journeys’ and in-house ‘Resort Programme’ offer immersive experiences that connect guests with local culture and traditions.

Adding to its legacy, the hotel was recently named one of the world’s ‘500 Best Hotels’ by Travel + Leisure for the fourth year in a row.


Sarovar Hotels Debuts in Nepal with Royal Tulip Chitwan

Sarovar Hotels Debuts in Nepal with Royal Tulip Chitwan

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 4, 2025

Sarovar Hotels, the Indian arm of Louvre Hotels Group, has launched its premium Royal Tulip brand in Nepal with the grand opening of Royal Tulip Chitwan. Developed by KTM Hospitality, a subsidiary of KTM Group Holdings, the resort is located near the renowned Chitwan National Park and spans 4 acres of lush landscape.

Royal Tulip Chitwan features 65 well-designed rooms and villas, including Pool Villas, Water Villas, and unique Machan accommodations. Each space is crafted to offer guests a luxurious and immersive experience with sweeping views of nature. The resort also includes a spa, fitness center, swimming pool, and an array of dining options, such as Majhighar, Forest Flame, the revolving deck Machan, and the lively Tanavi Sports Bar.

Ajay K. Bakaya, chairman of Sarovar Hotels and director of Louvre Hotels India, said, “Nepal is fast emerging as a preferred destination for both Indian and international travelers. We are thrilled to introduce the Royal Tulip brand in this beautiful country with a resort that offers a seamless blend of luxury, adventure, and local culture.”

Rameshwar Shah, chairman of KTM Hospitality, added, “Royal Tulip Chitwan, a place covered by nature where the wild watches over you, is our tribute to the natural beauty and cultural richness of Nepal. This resort is more than just a hospitality project, it is our commitment to enhancing the region’s tourism appeal, creating local employment opportunities, and setting a new benchmark for luxury in Chitwan.”

With this strategic launch, Louvre Hotels Group continues to grow its footprint in South Asia, reaffirming its focus on expanding into high-potential tourism destinations. Royal Tulip Chitwan is expected to become a preferred retreat for travelers seeking serenity, wildlife, and refined hospitality in the heart of Nepal.


Taiwan Sees Over 30% Growth in Indian Tourists from January to May 2025

Taiwan Sees Over 30% Growth in Indian Tourists from January to May 2025

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 3, 2025

Taiwan has recorded a 30.73% rise in Indian tourist arrivals during the January to May 2025 period, with a total of 19,202 visitors. This growth reflects a significant recovery and rising interest among Indian travellers following the country’s renewed focus on India as a key tourism source market.

The momentum comes on the heels of Taiwan Tourism Administration’s (TTA) post-pandemic re-entry into the Indian market in early 2024. With a 360-degree promotional strategy in place, TTA has been rolling out campaigns targeting niche segments such as golf tourism and wellness travel, along with outreach programs in East India.

In 2024, Taiwan welcomed 38,158 Indian tourists, showing a 20.81% increase over 2023 figures. This growth rate significantly outpaced the overall Indian outbound travel growth of 8.44%, placing Taiwan’s numbers at nearly 2.5 times the average.

Paul Shih, Director of the TTA Singapore Office, said, “We are very bullish about India’s outbound tourism potential for us. Over the last one and a half years, we have worked extensively and hard to build strong tourism ties with India’s ever-growing outbound tourism market, particularly focusing on strengthening partnerships with the Indian trade.”

As part of the global "Taiwan – Waves of Wonder" campaign, TTA has been promoting luxury and golf experiences tailored to Indian high-net-worth travellers. Recent efforts have included roadshows in cities like Kolkata, aimed at East India’s growing travel market.

By partnering with golf tour operators, OTAs, and luxury travel providers, TTA is offering curated experiences that combine golf, spa, culinary, and wellness offerings to attract Indian travellers. India has now emerged as Taiwan’s top South Asian source market both in terms of visitor numbers and travel spending.

TTA plans to continue its investments in both trade partnerships and consumer campaigns to strengthen Taiwan’s presence as a premium and accessible destination for Indian tourists.

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