OSAKA will become the first city in Western Japan to play host to an InterContinental hotel when the InterContinental Osaka opens its doors in mid-2013.

The InterContinental Osaka will form part of one of Japan's most ambitious mixed-use developments – the 24-hectare Grand Front Osaka in Umekita – that will see office buildings standing alongside commercial, residential and recreational spaces. The development is slated to open by 2Q2013.

“Osaka is developing rapidly—there is now better connectivity between East and West Japan, and with the strengthening of Kansai International Airport as an aviation hub, the InterContinental Osaka will stand out in what is one of InterContinental Hotels Group’s (IHG) most important markets globally,” said Clarence Tan, CEO, IHG ANA Hotels Group Japan.

Comprising 17 levels, the InterContinental Osaka will offer 215 guestrooms, 57 serviced residences and four F&B outlets. Facilities will include four banquet and meeting rooms, a wedding chapel, a spa, and a fitness centre with an indoor pool. Expect the decor to suggest contemporary luxury, matching modern interior design sensibilities with natural materials hinting at Japanese influences. Works by young stars in the Japanese art scene will also be on display.

A stone's throw from major transport stations, the InterContinental Osaka aims to carve a space for itself in the luxury business and leisure travel markets, led by general manager, Hafidh Al Busaidy, who has 20 years of experience in the InterContinental brand.

Said Al Busaidy: “The InterContinental Osaka is strategically placed to deliver unique and authentic experiences to guests, rich in both contemporary and traditional Japanese culture and heritage.”