Hoshino Resort Redefines Travel Standards in Guam with 'Regeneration Philosophy'

Tomohisa Kato, Managing Director of Hoshino Resort, speaks at a press conference in Seoul on May 7. [Photo by Kang Sang-heon]

Hoshino Resort is setting new travel standards in Guam, focusing on 'experience' over 'relaxation' and 'value' over 'price.' With over a century of history, the Hoshino Resort Group is applying its unique 'regeneration philosophy' to the global stage, starting with the transformation of 'Rizonare Guam.'

On May 7, Hoshino Resort held a press conference in Seoul to unveil its brand vision and the Guam resort regeneration project. Founded in 1914, Hoshino Resort operates 74 facilities worldwide under six brands: luxury 'Hoshinoya,' onsen ryokan 'Kai,' resort 'Rizonare,' city hotel 'OMO,' lifestyle hotel 'BEB,' and lodge-style hotel 'Rusy.'

The core identity of these brands is 'locality and regeneration.' Instead of constructing new buildings, the company acquires aging or poorly managed facilities to restore their original value. Kato explained, "Rooms cannot be the sole purpose of travel; we first plan the benefits for guests before investing in hardware."

The first overseas project under this regeneration initiative is 'Rizonare Guam.' Hoshino Resort noted that Guam, a familiar destination for Koreans, has seen a lack of new investments and is focusing on significant innovations that highlight the island's natural beauty and culture.

A major change includes the addition of new facilities. In the first phase of investment, the existing pool and banquet hall were replaced with Guam's first beach club and an all-day dining venue called 'CHO CHO.' Opening this summer, CHO CHO will offer traditional Chamorro dishes and local cuisine influenced by Spain, while the beach club, set to open this fall, will provide a private beach experience with music and activities all day.

Overview of Hoshino Resort Rizonare Guam. [Photo by Hoshino Resort]

This marks the beginning of a long-term regeneration roadmap. Kato outlined a blueprint that includes a second phase focused on a water park and a final phase for room investments. He added, "By revitalizing old facilities through operational software, we aim to enhance their value and contribute to the local economy, which is the true meaning of regeneration for Hoshino Resort."

Innovations in service are also noteworthy. The previous all-inclusive package, which required guests to use accommodations and dining throughout their stay, has been revamped. The new 'Beach Club Package' allows guests to flexibly separate lunch and dinner according to their schedules, enabling them to explore Guam freely.

Yoshiharu Hoshino, CEO of Hoshino Resort Group, emphasized in a video message, "The Guam market is very important to us. Korean customers, who make up half of Guam's visitors, are our most valued partners. We are seriously considering how to ensure their satisfaction during their stay and will continue to invest in new facilities that reflect the needs of the Korean market."

Thanks to these bold innovations, the number of Korean travelers visiting Hoshino Resort is increasing across various locations. According to the resort's own data, the number of Korean guests across all facilities rose by approximately 19% from 2024 to 2025. Notably, bookings for 2026, as of late April, have already reached 81% of total reservations for 2025, indicating strong growth.

* This article has been translated by AI.

Kang Sang Heon