Aman Kyoto

BACKGROUND Aman Kyoto became the brand's third Japanese property when it opened in November 2019, following Aman Tokyo in 2015 and Amanemu hot-spring resort in Ise-Shima in 2016.

WHERE IS IT? Northwest of Kyoto city, set in a garden in 32 hectares of forest close to two of Kyoto's most famous UNESCO-designated sites: the gilded Kinkakuji Temple is a kilometre away, while Ryoanji Temple and its famous Zen garden are three kilometres away. For anyone seeking a calming retreat, this quiet part of the city and Aman's serene vibe are ideal, although a drawback for some could be that it is removed from the main central sights, nightlife and business areas. Getting there from Kyoto Station takes roughly 30 minutes by taxi.

WHAT’S IT LIKE? A peaceful and luxurious retreat that fuses contemporary and traditional Japanese sensibilities. The resort is made up of half-a-dozen singleand two-storey buildings that are well blended into a historic mossy garden on a forested mountainside, making for an extremely tranquil setting. Rooms have a minimalist, functional design that feels both modern yet respectful of Kyoto’s ryokan inn traditions. Add to that a spa and hot-spring bathhouse, a refined kaiseki restaurant and attentive, English-speaking staff.