Set in a secret garden at the heart of a 32-hectare forest, Aman Kyoto, Aman’s third destination in Japan – opens on 1 November 2019. Aman Kyoto is nestled in forested grounds, within walking distance of the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kinkaku-ji Temple, and close to the center of beguiling Kyoto.
Within a hidden valley, formed by a series of manicured platforms, the garden is enclosed on one side by a small stream, and on another by a wooded hill. An ethereal landscape of mature cedar, cypress, camellia and Japanese maple trees (to name just a few) changes color through the year, transporting the garden from one season to another. The platforms, originally intended as locations for the buildings of a textile museum, are the unrealized dream of the site’s former owner, who was one of Japan’s most respected collectors of the obi (the ornamental sash for a traditional Japanese kimono), and now provide the foundations for the sensitively designed pavilions of the resort. The tranquillity and drama of this setting inspired the respectful architectural design of Aman Kyoto.
Exemplary in its simplicity, the resort is an architectural masterpiece brought into being by Kerry Hill Architects, who designed both Aman Tokyo and Amanemu. True to the Aman aesthetic, which is very much inspired by Japan, Aman Kyoto’s structures – including its Aman Spa – have been designed with characteristic elegance and sensitivity to complement their verdant surroundings. The color palette for interiors is neutral, complementing the work of local artisans: handmade raku tile panels grace the Living Pavilion and custom-made ceramic tiles decorate the restaurant.
Aman Kyoto has six Guest Pavilions housing 26 guest rooms. Strikingly minimalist in their design, the rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows framing the spectacular natural surroundings, tatami mats covering the floors, and tokonoma (alcoves where items for artistic appreciation are presented) providing subtle focal points. The spacious and light-filled interiors are ingeniously crafted to foster peace, relaxation and contemplation. All furniture, including traditional Japanese lanterns, have been custom-designed and are exclusive to Aman Kyoto. Carefully chosen artifacts, whether vases, artworks or antiques, have been individually selected for each space and celebrate the refined aesthetic and creative values of Japan.
Spa and Wellness
The 29 hectares of permanent forest and three hectares of exquisite gardens surrounding Aman Kyoto serve as a serene setting for the Aman Spa. Even a simple immersion – such as walking through a forest – has a powerful effect on wellbeing. This has long been recognized by the Japanese, and Aman Kyoto embraces this wisdom, alongside other Japanese holistic rituals, with a wellness offering defined by nature in every way. Guests can experience guided yoga and meditation, as well as Shinrin-yoku, the healing art of forest bathing or ‘taking in the forest atmosphere’.
The natural spring water that flows underneath Aman Kyoto is central to the philosophy at the resort’s Aman Spa, and something of great rarity in the region. Traditional onsen bathing facilities, using the water from a local spring, deliver relaxation and healing in their purest forms, while a range of treatments tap into Japan’splentiful natural apothecary – including Kyoto green tea, Tamba kuromame (black beans), local saké, and cold-pressed tsubaki (camellia) oil. Bathing, breathing practice, Zazen meditation, consuming green tea, the physical practice of shiatsu, acupuncture, and moxa are part of the Aman Kyoto experience. However, it is the natural landscape that surrounds the resort that plays the starring role.
Dining
Resting at the heart of the resort is the convivial Living Pavilion by Aman with its central fireplace and floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto an ornate terrace overlooking the Kerry Hill garden. With beautiful views of the surrounding gardens and forest, the restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, both to guests of the resort and non-residents (with advance reservations).
Taka-an, the resort’s Japanese restaurant, is a culinary homage to this heritage and serves as an invitation to experience the authentic Japanese is a culinary homage to this heritage and serves as an invitation to experience the authentic Japanese art of hospitality, in which every element – atmosphere, design, and cuisine – work in harmony and are in perfect balance. Strictly seasonal, chef-selected ingredients are prepared and served with meticulous perfect balance. Strictly seasonal, chef-selected ingredients are prepared and served with meticulous precision, to serve dishes that transform Kyoto’s local produce into works of gastronomic art. This restaurant also houses two private dining rooms.
The property’s daily afternoon tea introduces flower-like Wagashi, traditional Japanese confections made of mochi, anko andfruits, amongst a variety of delectable creations inspired by the setting of the resort. Kyoto matcha is freshly-prepared and served as a finale. Guests are also encouraged to enjoy a personalized picnic hamper in the gardens and forested grounds, which are full of serene spots.
Set within easy reach of Kyoto’s most important sites, Aman Kyoto is a one-hour drive from Osaka International Airport (ITM), a two-hour drive from Kansai International Airport (KIX), and a 30-minute drive from Kyoto Station.
