IHG Launches LINE MiniApp in Japan for Seamless Hotel Bookings

IHG Hotels & Resorts has officially introduced its LINE MiniApp in Japan, offering guests an enhanced way to book hotels and access IHG One Rewards directly through their preferred digital platform.

LINE is one of Asia’s most widely used communication apps, boasting 195 million monthly active users across Japan, Thailand, Taiwan, Indonesia, and beyond. In Japan, it has a penetration rate of over 90 per cent among people aged 13 to 79, making it an indispensable tool for daily communication and digital engagement.

Japanese LINE users can now enjoy the convenience of booking stays at IHG hotels worldwide directly within the app. They can also conveniently access their IHG One Rewards account details, making it easier than ever to join and engage with the programme.

Key Features of the IHG Hotels & Resorts LINE MiniApp:

• Direct Hotel Booking: Instantly search and book over 6,600 IHG hotels worldwide.
• One-Click Membership Registration: Sign up for IHG One Rewards effortlessly using LINE credentials.
• Enhanced Member Experience: View account details, check membership status, and track or redeem points — all within the LINE app.
• Partner Point Integration: Manage and utilise points earned through partner programmes such as Rakuten Points and ANA Mileage Club.

The launch marks a significant step in IHG's digital innovation journey, offering users integrated access to hotel reservations, rewards features, and exclusive campaigns, all from one platform.

Abhijay Sandilya, CEO of IHG ANA Hotels Group Japan and Managing Director of IHG Hotels & Resorts Japan & Micronesia, said, “IHG Hotels & Resorts has made significant investments in our digital ecosystem, with the goal of offering travellers more choice in how they book IHG’s portfolio of more than 6,600 hotels around the world. LINE is Japan’s most dominant digital platform, and the launch of the LINE MiniApp allows us to reach Japanese consumers in a platform they know, trust, and spend time in.”

A popular feature of LINE is stickers (digital emojis), used by many in conversations. To celebrate the launch, IHG has created a series of limited-edition LINE stickers, available for download until August 25.

In April 2024, IHG upgraded its official LINE account, enriching its content and boosting subscriber numbers. As of July 2025, the account has over 1.4 million followers, reflecting strong engagement.

IHG Hotels & Resorts remains dedicated to delivering innovative digital experiences and strengthening guest relationships across multiple platforms, continuously evolving in line with the needs and preferences of today’s travellers.