Historic Tokyo Landmark Hotel Gajoen to Reopen as LXR Hotels and Resorts Property with Full Relaunch Planned for 2027

(NEWS) TOKYO, Japan, 2026-Apr-30 — /Travel PR News/ — Tokyo’s luxury hotel landscape is set for a notable addition, as one of the city’s most historically significant properties prepares to reintroduce itself under a new brand. The iconic Hotel Gajoen in Meguro will be rebranded as Gajoen Tokyo, joining the LXR Hotels & Resorts portfolio, with an official debut scheduled for 2027.

The project marks the Tokyo debut of the brand and reflects a broader expansion of Hilton’s luxury footprint in Japan. According to a press release published by Hilton, the property — owned by Brookfield and managed by Hilton — will undergo a phased enhancement program, with hotel rooms and restaurants expected to reopen in mid-2026 ahead of its full relaunch.

Located in Meguro, the hotel has long held a distinctive position in Tokyo’s hospitality scene, known for its integration of traditional Japanese artistry and architecture. With nearly a century of history, the property is widely recognized for its interiors, which incorporate intricate craftsmanship and cultural design elements. Among its most notable features is Hyakudan Kaidan, or the “Hundred-Step Staircase,” a preserved wooden structure designated as a Tangible Cultural Property by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.

The repositioning under LXR Hotels & Resorts is intended to align the property with a collection known for emphasizing individuality and a strong connection to local culture. Each hotel within the brand operates with a focus on destination-specific identity, combining design, heritage, and personalized guest experiences.

Once fully relaunched, Gajoen Tokyo will offer 60 guest rooms, including suites exceeding 100 square meters, positioning it within the upper tier of Tokyo’s luxury accommodation segment. The property will also include five dining venues, a spa, fitness facilities, and approximately 5,700 square meters of meeting and event space, making it suitable for both leisure and large-scale functions.

Its location in Meguro places it within easy reach of central Tokyo’s commercial and cultural districts, while also offering proximity to one of the city’s most recognized seasonal attractions. The Meguro River, lined with around 800 cherry trees, draws significant attention during spring, reinforcing the area’s appeal to both domestic and international visitors.

The rebranding represents a continuation of Hilton’s broader strategy to expand its luxury presence across Japan. In addition to Gajoen Tokyo, the company has outlined plans for further developments in Hiroshima and Hakone by 2028, along with a project in Niseko, Hokkaido. Gajoen Tokyo will become the second LXR property in the country, following ROKU KYOTO, LXR Hotels & Resorts.

The investment by Brookfield reflects ongoing confidence in Japan’s hospitality sector, which has seen sustained demand growth in recent years, supported by increasing international arrivals and limited new supply in the high-end segment. The redevelopment is positioned to appeal to both local clientele and international travelers seeking culturally grounded luxury experiences.

At the same time, the project underscores a balancing act common in heritage hospitality: preserving historical identity while adapting to contemporary expectations. In this case, the approach centers on maintaining the property’s artistic and cultural significance while introducing upgraded facilities and services aligned with current luxury standards.

When it reopens in stages from 2026 and transitions fully in 2027, Gajoen Tokyo is expected to re-enter the market not as a new development, but as an updated version of an established landmark — one that continues to reflect Tokyo’s evolving hospitality landscape.