Kerry Hill-designed Japanese resort blends nature into its aesthetic
by Megan Whitby | 31 Oct 2019
Aman Kyoto embodies the true spirit of Aman, blending our profound respect for nature with adherence to simple, yet striking, principles of aesthetics and structure.
– Vladislav Doronin, Aman chair and CEO
Hotel operator Aman has opened a third resort in Japan that has been designed by the late architect Kerry Hill and his team to capitalise on its lush forest surroundings.
The 26-room Aman Kyoto, announced in February, is situated in a hidden garden close to Kinkaky-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, near the centre of the prefecture.
The 80ac (32ha) Aman Kyoto site comprises 72ac (29ha) of permanent forest and 8ac (3ha) of gardens that are used as a setting for guided yoga, meditation and forest bathing.
Traditional onsen bathing facilities use water from a spring and there are facilities for treatments including shiatsu, acupuncture and moxa.
The design draws on Japan's ryokan (traditional inn) and onsen (hot spring) concepts to provide an authentic yet minimalist and contemporary sanctuary.
Aman chair and CEO Vladislav Doronin said: "Aman Kyoto embodies the true spirit of Aman, blending our profound respect for nature with adherence to simple, yet striking, principles of aesthetics and structure."
Kerry Hill Architects have previously worked on Aman's two other resorts in the country – Aman Tokyo and Amanemu in Ise-Shima National Park.
Aman Japan forest bathing Aman Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage Site Kerry Hill onsen moxa Vladislav Doronin Chartered Group
The 80-acre Aman Kyoto site comprises 72 acres of permanent forest and eight acres of impeccably kept gardens play a starring role at the resort
The natural spring water that flows near Aman Kyoto will be central to the philosophy at the resort’s Aman Spa, and is something of great rarity in the region
The destination has been 'masterfully brought to life' by the late architect Kerry Hill and his team
The 26-room Aman Kyoto is situated in a hidden garden close to Kinkaky-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
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