Travel + Leisure Co. (NYSE: TNL), the world’s leading membership and leisure travel company, has acquired the Yushi Chikumakan resort in Chikuma City, in the Nagano prefecture of Japan, and has rebranded the property to Club Wyndham Chikumakan Nagano.
The 36-room Ryokan resort features a mix of Western and traditional Japanese styles and offers a spacious contemporary dining room with multiple private dining areas, featuring Shinshu specialities and seasonal ingredients, a snack bar, indoor and outdoor onsen with natural hot spring mineral water, several open plan resting spaces, and three banqueting halls that can cater for groups up to 130.
“With more than 25 million inbound tourists who spent a record US$35.7 billion (5.29 trillion yen) in 2023, Japan is one of the biggest tourist economies in the world, and its popularity is expected to increase. This acquisition expands our presence in Japan and prepares us for future demand,” said Barry Robinson, President and Managing Director, International Operations, at Travel + Leisure Co.
“Club Wyndham Chikumakan Nagano is our first Club Wyndham branded property in Japan and our 19th property across the country. The acquisition is a sign of our intention to grow our portfolio of managed properties across the Asia Pacific region and beyond,” he added.
Nestled in a picturesque valley between Mt. Kosakayama and Mt. Ariakeyama, the region around Chikuma boasts some of Nagano’s famed snow fields and three renowned onsen areas.
The destination is one for all seasons. Hikes and cycling tours are available in the warmer seasons, while in winter, guests can try snowboarding or skiing at the nearby Hijiri Kogen ski slopes, or further afield at close to 100 ski fields, including at Mt Azumaya and the Hakuba region. Travellers can explore cultural landmarks like Zenkoji Temple in Nagano City, step back in time in the fascinating samurai-era town of Narai-juku, or marvel at the historic Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s twelve remaining original castles. The region also offers the Jigokudani Monkey Park and its famous snow monkeys and a breathtaking cherry blossom season during spring.
The railway station is a short walk from the resort, ensuring guests are well-connected to all the region has to offer.
Club Wyndham Chikumakan Nagano has joined the impressive portfolio of Club Wyndham South Pacific, one of the largest vacation clubs in the region. This renowned club boasts 54 resorts across Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, Hawaii (US), and Europe. Travel + Leisure Co., manages a diverse portfolio of nearly 20 resort, travel club, and lifestyle travel brands, including Club Wyndham, Accor Vacation Club, Margaritaville vacation Club, and Sports Illustrated Resorts.