Fujita Kanko Inc. announced its plan to open Hotel Gracery Namba in Osaka, Japan. Construction is expected to begin in January 2018, with an opening scheduled for summer 2019. Hotel Gracery Namba will be the 11th hotel in Fujita Kanko's Hotel Gracery brand, and the first Gracery property in Osaka. The second biggest metropolis after Tokyo, Osaka is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan, and only 2.5 hours away from Tokyo by bullet train. Often described as "the kitchen of Japan" because of the variety of gastronomic delights available, Osaka is also known for its energetic culture. The Namba area is especially well known as a sleepless hub for shopping and entertainment, offering everything from restaurants and nightclubs to souvenirs, street fashion, and vibrant stores from the most upscale brands. The hotel will offer quick access to all attractions, and will be conveniently located a short walking distance from public transportation such as Namba stations on the Midosuji Subway Line and Japan Railway(JR), and airport shuttles at Osaka City Air Terminal. Fujita Kanko also operates Taiko-en, a one-of-a-kind historic property in Osaka that now consists of four restaurants and eleven banquet facilities all built around a magnificent Japanese garden on a 6.52 acre (26,400 square meter) property. The 170-room hotel will emphasize concierge service to provide local information, and assist international visitors with various activities. All guest rooms will feature separate toilets/bathrooms for additional comfort. Fujita Kanko's future openings include Hotel Gracery Asakusa and Hotel Gracery Seoul in 2018, and Hotel Gracery Taipei in 2019. It also plans opening its first serviced apartment in Greater Jakarta of Indonesia in 2019.