Aman Kyoto

This stylish boutique Aman property offers sleek and sophisticated accommodations, elevated cuisine, and a curated onsen spa experience in a spectacular natural setting in Northern Kyoto.

• The privacy of the rooms in the Hotaru building
• The beautiful natural garden landscape
• The delicious Japanese-European fusion cuisine served in the Library Pavilion

A passion project spanning twenty years since the land was originally purchased, the Aman Kyoto has long been awaited due to the exceptional experience offered by its sister property in Tokyo. It was designed by the late Kerry Hill, who also was responsible for the Aman Tokyo and Amanemu. Previously the garden of a textile museum, the hotel grounds are full of enormous moss-covered stone slabs, towering trees and twisting pathways, creating a serene and mystical forest setting for the Aman Kyoto.

This zen retreat is tucked away in the north part of the city near Arashiyama and the Golden Pavilion and takes about thirty minutes to drive to the train station. It pays homage to a traditional Japanese ryokan—intimate and serene with a focus on wellness and hospitality—while maintaining the polish and infrastructure of a luxury brand. There are just twenty six rooms and suites divided between six structures. The interiors of the rooms are minimalist and sleek with high ceilings, natural hues throughout, and large windows to bring the outdoors in. (Indagare Tip: consider the Hotaru building, which offers the most privacy, as the Nara and Susuki buildings overlook the front road.)

There are two dining options on property: the fine dining Taka-An, which offers an omakase dining experience, and the Living Pavilion, which offers Japanese fusion cuisine —twisting around traditional classics and local fare to create signature dishes like their wagyu Bolognese. It is a sleek, attractive space with a large central fireplace both inside and outside on the deck within a verdant garden.

Guests can also make use of the spa, which includes an onsen (thermal mineral water piped directly from the ground), as well as a range of natural treatments and practices. Other special activities can be arranged on the hotel grounds: Ikebana, Zen meditation with a Buddhist monk, or instruction in the art of miniature garden design by the on-property gardener. The atmosphere is one of mindfulness and a focus on natural beauty, and there are many small spaces around the property that can be used for open-air dining, tea ceremonies, and private yoga sessions.

Those looking for an Aman experience while in Kyoto, or someone who is spending time in the center of the city, and then wants a more removed countryside experience without traveling far to take advantage of the setting, spa, and food on property. Please note that due to the large rocks and uneven surfaces that make up the pathways, this property will be difficult to navigate for those with mobility issues.