For nearly forty-four years, Grandvrio Hotel Saipan has stood by the people of the Northern Mariana Islands, weathering changes, challenges, and periods of growth. Opened in 1982 as the islands’ tourism industry took off, the hotel quickly became a fixture to both locals and tourists.
As one of Saipan’s most enduring – and remaining – Japanese-owned hotels, Grandvrio’s decision to close its doors by April 2026 will be felt across the commonwealth, a reminder of just how much the ups and downs of tourism can touch daily life on the islands.
Grandvrio Resort Saipan announced yesterday that it will temporarily close operations starting April 2026. This was made public through a formal notice to the Hotel Association of NMI (HANMI), coupled with a withdrawal of its membership.
Originally built in 1982 and formerly known as Hafa Adai Hotel, the property underwent major renovations over the years. In 2004, it was overhauled to serve growing inbound travel, and following Super Typhoon Soudelor, it reopened in August 2022 under the Grandvrio brand after yet another refurbishment.
Factor
In its notice to HANMI, Grandvrio Resort Saipan General Manager Kuhito Izumi said a significant decline in tourist arrivals—mainly from reductions and suspensions of direct flights to Saipan—has severely impacted hotel operations.
“Therefore, we sincerely apologize for the inconvenience, but Grandvrio Resort Saipan will be temporarily closed starting April 2026,” Izumi said. In light of the challenging business environment and the need to reassess priorities, Grandvrio Resort will also withdraw from HANMI effective Dec. 5, 2025.
“Please note that this decision does not reflect any dissatisfaction with your association’s activities or mission, but is solely due to our internal circumstances,” Izumi wrote.
Izumi expressed gratitude for all the support and opportunities HANMI provided over the years, wishing the association continued growth and success.
Sad news
In an interview, House Ways and Means Committee chairman Rep. John Paul Sablan called it unfortunate that one of the last two Japanese-owned hotels in the CNMI is closing. Sablan said it is sad news, noting the government’s hope for a rebound in tourism. He recognized that declining arrivals are a regional problem and remained optimistic, as Grandvrio’s closure is described as temporary.
“I want to thank Grandvrio Resort Saipan for providing services to visitors and residents in the CNMI, in good times and bad,” Sablan said.
