Hyatt and Kiraku Launch New Ryokan Brand in Japan

We all love a good Hyatt, don’t we? With 26 brands under its belt, the hotel chain has been on a tear these last few years with expansion. It’s no surprise, then, that Hyatt and Japanese company Kirkau have announced a new Hyatt brand, titled: Atona.

Let’s take a look at the details.

Brand Details

Ever stayed at a ryokan? These classic Japanese dwellings feature unique characteristics, including traditional sleeping arrangements and Japanese baths. Hyatt’s new Atona brand promises a modern-style ryokan with hot springs for the ultimate in relaxation. As you’d expect, these properties will be located exclusively in Japan, though this should be less of an issue since Japan has announced it’s dropping entry restrictions starting in October.

Even more exciting, this is the first major U.S. hotel chain that’ll be featuring ryokan-style hotels, which means you’ll no longer have to miss out on those coveted elite night credits (and benefits) when searching for a traditional Japanese experience.

Hyatt’s Brands

As we mentioned above, Hyatt has a total of 26 brands within its portfolio, including a host of newly-acquired all-inclusive resorts scattered around the world. In addition, Hyatt’s partnership with Small Luxury Hotels and Resorts adds an extra 500 or so properties from which to book and earn Hyatt points.

All this is to say that there are plenty of ways to stay at a Hyatt property, and the new Atona brand is excellent news for Hyatt loyalists. Why? Well, aside from the excellent treatment World of Hyatt elite members receive (including suite upgrades, complimentary breakfast, and late check-out), Hyatt also gives members the opportunity to earn a free night award for every 5 hotel brands that they try. Adding Atona to the list makes it just a little bit simpler to earn your next reward.

Hot Tip: Wondering about all the benefits of World of Hyatt elite status? Check out our guide: The Valuable Benefits of Hyatt Elite Status [Discoverist, Explorist, Globalist]!

Final Thoughts

It’s always good news when a hotel brand announces it’s expanding. Hyatt has been sprinting to catch up with competitors Hilton, IHG, and Marriott in terms of geographic footprint, and Atona is the latest in its efforts. World of Hyatt members will be glad to snag elite night credits for a traditional Japanese hotel while still enjoying the benefits of status. Even better, this newest brand makes earning a Hyatt Brand Explorer award a little easier.