Osaka, Japan – AB Capital Investment Limited (“AB Capital”) today announced the strategic acquisition of two hotels in Osaka, Japan, completed on August 1, 2025. These acquisitions mark AB Capital’s 10th and 11th hotel in Japan and following renovation, these two properties will mark the debut of City Express by Marriott hotels in Asia – part of Marriott International’s collection of affordable midscale brands.

 

The two properties, located in Osaka’s vibrant Nishinari Ward, will undergo extensive renovation, and are scheduled to re-open in spring 2026 as City Express by Marriott Osaka Namba South and City Express by Marriott Osaka Shin-Imamiya. AB Capital has appointed Pacifica Hotels G.K. as the franchise operator. This initiative capitalizes on Osaka’s thriving tourism trajectory, highlighted by record international visitation of 36.9 million to Japan in 2024 and major global events.

 

A New Era of Urban Hospitality: Stylish, Spacious, and Seamlessly Connected

 

Drawing inspiration from the local North Hanazono area of Osaka, the hotels are designed around the theme “City Rhythm in Fragments”. The fusion of North Hanazono’s raw urban energy with City Express’ streamlined functionality creates a hospitality experience that feels both grounded and elevated, a perfect balance between rhythm and order. The rebranding transforms the properties into welcoming, thoughtfully designed spaces that serve both business and leisure travelers.

 

Capitalizing on the generous floorplate of both hotels, the guest rooms and public areas will undergo a full redesign to reflect a minimalist yet stylish aesthetic. Rooms will feature intuitive layouts and art inspired by Osaka’s iconic Tsutenkaku Tower and the surrounding city grid, anchoring the experience in local context. The result is a fresh hospitality concept, where international standards meet local character, powered by design and connectivity.

 

City Express by Marriott Osaka Namba South - Concept Design

 

Lobby & Common Area

 

Renovated Hallways

 

Guestrooms

Note: Design concept. Final details subject to change.

 

Introducing City Express by Marriott to Asia

 

City Express by Marriott offers travelers a space where convenience meets comfort. The dynamic brand is renowned for delivering efficient service, quality amenities, and exceptional value. It caters to the needs of both business and leisure travelers seeking a seamless and reliable experience, backed by the power of Marriott Bonvoy®, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program with over 248 million global members. This launch marks the brand’s debut in the Asia market. With more than 150 hotels across Latin America and the U.S., City Express by Marriott continues to expand its footprint globally, bringing its trusted and accessible hospitality experience to new destinations.

 

Alan Kam, Founder and CEO of AB Capital, emphasized the vision behind the acquisitions: “This strategic partnership with Marriott transcends a traditional real estate acquisition. By redeveloping these assets into the internationally recognized City Express by Marriott, we are addressing a critical gap in Osaka’s mid-scale accommodation market while delivering exceptional value to our investors. With Osaka’s tourism trajectory reaching unprecedented heights, Marriott’s powerful distribution and loyalty platform position us perfectly to capture this demand and redefine accessible comfort in Japan’s urban cultural heartland.”

 

Shawn Hill, Chief Development Officer, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International, said: “We are pleased to collaborate with AB Capital to debut City Express by Marriott in Japan which is also expected to mark the brand’s entry in Asia Pacific. This strategic partnership reflects our continued commitment to growing strategically across the region and expanding our offerings to meet the evolving needs of travelers. With its strong value proposition and Marriott Bonvoy’s powerful distribution and loyalty platform, City Express by Marriott is well positioned to serve Japan’s dynamic mid-scale segment and contribute meaningfully to Osaka’s thriving tourism landscape.”

 

Strategic Significance

 

These acquisitions represent a strategic addition to AB Capital’s growing Japan portfolio, bringing the total assets managed to 11 hotels across Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and regional markets. The hotels' convenient locations offer immediate access to key transportation hubs such as Shin-Imamiya Station, placing guests within walking distance of major cultural landmarks including Tsutenkaku Tower, Dotonbori Canal, Namba Parks, and Tennoji Zoo. The repositioning is scheduled for completion with a grand reopening in 2Q 2026. The combined 243-room portfolio will target value-conscious travelers seeking seamless access to Osaka’s cultural and commercial hubs.

 

About AB Capital Investment Limited

 

AB Capital Investment Limited is a leading Private Equity Real Estate Fund Manager specializing in the dynamic landscape of Japan's hospitality industry. With an experienced and dedicated local team, AB Capital is committed to sourcing and acquiring opportunistic Japan hospitality investments that deliver stable income and capital growth for its investors.