Hyatt and Kiraku have announced plans for ATONA, a new brand of hot spring ryokan (Japanese-style inn) that will be rolled out to several locations in Japan, including Yufu, Yakushima and Hakone.
The ATONA brand was announced in 2022 under a joint venture between a subsidiary of Hyatt and Kiraku, a Japanese company dedicated to preserving valuable assets for future generations.
The first ATONA ryokan are scheduled to open in 2026 in some of Japan's top hot spring destinations and areas of natural beauty.
Hyatt and Kiraku have also announced the closing of Atona Impact Fund, a real estate fund that will actively invest in ATONA ryokan development projects, securing initial financing of 10 billion yen (approximately US$64 million).
“Through the ATONA brand, we hope to introduce Japan's hot springs and new destinations to our World of Hyatt members and domestic and international travelers alike.
With Kiraku’s expertise in deal sourcing, asset management and business development, the ATONA brand is poised to meet the growing demand for high-end ryokans,” said Sam Sakamura, Hyatt vice president of Japan and Micronesia.
“We are delighted to have identified prime locations for the first ATONA ryokans and to have secured funding for the Atona Impact Fund. Having partnered with Takenaka Corporation to restore a traditional sake brewery in Nagano, we are excited to expand our collaboration with more regional revitalization projects,” said Kou Sundberg, Founder and CEO of Kiraku.
“ATONA” is an expression of deep connection, a combination of two ancient Japanese words (吾汝) that mean “you and me.”
Each ATONA ryokan will be designed to embrace a “small luxury” concept focused on hot springs and unique destinations, with wellness and culinary experiences exclusive to their locations.
ATONA properties will typically have 30 to 50 rooms and feature restaurants with open kitchens and bars showcasing seasonal ingredients.
Kenya Hara, a renowned Japanese designer, serves as brand director for ATONA and brings extensive knowledge of local traditions and aesthetics. Joining him are architects Shinya Kojima and Ayaka Kojima of kooo architects, a studio based in Tokyo and Shanghai dedicated to preserving local craftsmanship.
hyatt.com
