Aman Kyoto unfolds across 80 acres of secluded forest at the base of Hidari Daimonji mountain. Just minutes from the famed Kinkaku-ji Temple, this retreat feels far removed from the city’s pace, offering guests a sanctuary that balances cultural proximity with deep tranquillity. From the moment you step onto its sculptural stone pathways, the atmosphere of calm sets the tone for the stay.
Design inspired by tradition and nature
The late Kerry Hill designed Aman Kyoto with sensitivity to its surroundings, creating six pavilions that house 28 guest rooms and suites. Their pitched roofs and latticed walls echo Kyoto’s machiya townhouses, while interiors draw from the minimalist elegance of ryokans with tatami mats and sliding panels.
Large windows frame serene forest views, while bathrooms include wooden ofuro tubs that fill with hot water scented by the surrounding woodland. The palette of black, grey, and ochre, combined with natural materials like timber and straw, reflects the Japanese dedication to craftsmanship. At Aman Kyoto, architecture and design never compete with nature but rather highlight it.
Wellness rooted in hot springs
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Wellness lies at the heart of Aman Kyoto, where mineral-rich hot springs provide a therapeutic foundation. The spa makes full use of these waters through private indoor–outdoor onsen baths and traditional treatments that encourage deep relaxation.
Guests seeking a holistic experience can opt for the “Wellness Escape” package, which includes private bathing sessions, nourishing breakfasts, and hotel credit for tailored therapies. After a day exploring temples and gardens, returning to the spa’s serene setting is restorative both physically and mentally.
Dining in harmony with the seasons
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Dining at Aman Kyoto reflects Kyoto’s culinary traditions and refined artistry. Taka-An, the resort’s signature restaurant, presents kaiseki cuisine, with seasonal ingredients transformed into multi-course menus that honour local heritage. Each dish is prepared with precision, echoing the philosophy that simplicity and balance create the most profound flavours.
For a more relaxed atmosphere, the Living Pavilion serves Western and Japanese dishes throughout the day. Morning meals here, with sunlight filtering through the trees, are particularly memorable. Private dining can also be arranged, from riverside picnics to candlelit dinners under the forest canopy, giving guests unique perspectives on the property.
Immersion in Kyoto’s heritage
While the retreat itself encourages stillness, Aman Kyoto is an ideal base for cultural exploration. Its location near 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites makes it easy to experience the richness of Kyoto’s traditions. The concierge team can arrange private tours of temples, meditation sessions with monks, or workshops with artisans skilled in crafts such as kimono-making and ceramics.
Returning to the peaceful surroundings of Aman Kyoto after these excursions provides balance — a quiet refuge from the intensity of the city’s cultural life.
Evenings in the forest
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At night, the property reveals a softer side. Lanterns illuminate pathways, the air fills with the scent of moss, and stars appear between the trees. This setting makes Aman Kyoto ideal for intimate celebrations or quiet reflection, whether on a suite’s private deck or during a private dinner arranged in the forest glades.
Aman Kyoto stands as one of Japan’s most exceptional retreats, where nature, culture, and service come together seamlessly. It offers a sanctuary that feels both refined and deeply moving, leaving guests with an experience that lingers long after their stay.
Quick summary – Aman Kyoto
- ⭐ Style: Discreet forest retreat blending tradition and modern design
- 📍 Location: Hidari Daimonji mountain foothills, near Kinkaku-ji Temple, Kyoto
- 🏨 Accommodation: 28 rooms and suites across six pavilions, each with ofuro tubs and forest views
- ♨️ Wellness: Mineral-rich hot springs, private onsen baths, and spa treatments
- 🍽️ Dining: Kaiseki cuisine at Taka-An, all-day dining at the Living Pavilion, and private outdoor experiences
- 🏯 Culture: Close to 17 UNESCO sites with private tours, meditation, and artisan workshops available
- 🌙 Atmosphere: Lantern-lit pathways and starry skies create a serene evening setting
