TOURISM
AMAN KYOTO
See the stunning results of 20 years of planning, design and development Photos: Aman
The core philosophy of Aman has changed very little since the brand opened its first retreat on the island of Phuket, in 1988. An Aman property is all about exclusivity, privacy, peace and wellness. Staying with Aman should be transformative and awe-inspiring. The brand’s latest Japanese property, set in 72 acres of secluded natural forest in Kyoto, is certainly both. Housing Japan takes a look. Kyoto rightly occupies a unique place in the travel itinerary for anyone visiting Japan. As the country’s traditional and ancient capital, it has a rich history. Spared the ravages of WW2 air-raids and benefiting from strict urban development guidelines, Kyoto brims with traditional Japanese architecture, charming streets, countless temples, numerous gardens and a number of stunning castles. On the flipside, Kyoto has also attracted a lot of attention for being overcrowded. So, whilst Aman’s latest offering is in Kyoto, the first thing that strikes you is its location. Tucked away in one of the city’s quieter corners, the property is away from the hustle and bustle, at the
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foot of a mountain. It is surrounded by nature, yet within easy reach on foot of many of the city’s most well-known attractions. Aman Kyoto, as you would expect, is a property that fits breathlessly into its surroundings. Designed by Kerry Hill, the late Australian architect behind many of Aman’s projects, the property also features a Kerry Hill Garden. The green oasis is quiet, contemplative and moss-covered, with a memorial plaque to Hill, who passed away in 2018. The resort is situated in a once-forgotten secret garden, hidden at the foot of the symbolic Mountain of Hidari Daimonji in Kyoto’s north. The 80-acre site comprises 72 acres of forest and eight acres of exquisite gardens lovingly tended over decades by the previous owner, who was one of Japan’s most respected collectors of obi (the ornamental sash worn with kimono). His unrealised aim was to house his collection in a textile museum to be built within the garden. Now, 20 years after his death and the passing of the land to Aman, the brand is honoured to be the garden’s next custodi-
