Photo/Illutration The lobby of the Kitano Hotel New York (Provided by Seibu Prince Hotels Worldwide Inc.)

Seibu Prince Hotels Worldwide Inc. has announced that it will take over operations of the Kitano Hotel New York from spring 2023 and will change its name. 

Under the new management, the Kitano Hotel will be rebranded and reopened as the Prince Kitano New York.

Seibu Prince Hotels Worldwide is based in Tokyo’s Toshima Ward and is an affiliate to Seibu Holdings Inc.

The company has signed a trustee agreement with the U.S. arm of Kitano Godo Tatemono Inc., which owns the long-established, Japanese-owned property.

The Kitano Hotel first opened in 1973 as the only Japanese luxury hotel in New York.

It is known for its rooftop bar that offers a panoramic view of the Manhattan skyline. Its long list of distinguished guests includes Japanese prime ministers.

As part of the plan to mark its 50th anniversary in July 2023, the hotel has decided to renovate its lobby and 150 guest rooms.

Seibu Prince Hotels Worldwide has reduced the number of its owned properties, changing its business focus to the management of hotels.