Aman Kyoto is a masterful fusion of Japan’s historical charm and serene natural beauty, nestled in the Takagamine district of Kyoto. Created by the acclaimed Kerry Hill Architects, this luxurious retreat transports guests into a secluded world of meticulously crafted design, deeply inspired by Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage and its ancient traditions.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Location: Kyoto, Japan
Architecture: Kerry Hill Architects
Interior Design: Kerry Hill Architects
Photography: Masao Nishikawa
Opened just under five years ago, Aman Kyoto is the third Aman resort in Japan, following Aman Tokyo and Amanemu. The resort is a modern reimagining of the traditional Japanese ryokan and onsen, featuring 24 guest rooms, two exclusive two-bedroom villas, and separate pavilions for living, dining, and spa experiences. The architectural design effortlessly harmonizes with the surrounding environment, creating an immersive escape that feels both private and deeply connected to the natural and cultural landscape of Kyoto.
Aman Kyoto’s location in the city’s historic Takagamine district provides guests with proximity to one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks—the Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a UNESCO World Heritage site. Despite this closeness to the bustling city, the resort offers a sense of secluded tranquility, nestled within a historic garden that stretches across 80 acres of forest and moss-covered pathways.
The garden, initially envisioned as part of a textile museum project by a renowned obi collector, now stands as a carefully preserved masterpiece of Edo-period landscape design. Under the guidance of esteemed landscape architect Professor Shimoda, Aman Kyoto worked to restore the garden’s beauty and historical integrity. “My goal was to connect visitors with nature in the same way that traditional Japanese gardens link people with the spiritual world,” Shimoda explains. The thoughtful restoration of the garden has resulted in an ethereal setting where winding paths, streams, and hidden viewpoints offer moments of serenity and reflection.
Upon entering Aman Kyoto, visitors are greeted by a monumental Tamba Himeji megalith stone, which serves as a prelude to the wonders of the “once-forgotten secret garden” that lies beyond. The resort’s layout, shaped by the garden’s contours, reflects the careful balance between architectural form and natural landscape. The pavilions—each with a distinct function—are strategically placed to respect the environment while offering sweeping views of the forest, garden, or streams.
The architectural design of Aman Kyoto takes cues from traditional Japanese aesthetics, incorporating timber screens, Tamo Japanese Ash paneling, and raised seam metal roof sheeting. Floor-to-ceiling windows in both guest rooms and villas allow natural light and the beauty of the surrounding greenery to flow seamlessly indoors. Inside, the minimalist interiors feature Tatami mat floors, custom-made hinoki cypress wood bathtubs, and concealed technology, blending simplicity with modern luxury.
Each suite at Aman Kyoto is designed to showcase Japan’s artistic heritage. The inclusion of a tokonoma—a raised alcove used to display art—serves as the focal point in every room. These spaces are adorned with specially curated pieces, from Kyoto artist Sakai Yuji’s scroll paintings of Takagamine Mountain to ceramic works by Tereda Teppei that highlight the timeless beauty of Japanese pottery traditions.
Furniture, including the sleek curved black chairs and traditional Japanese lanterns, was custom-designed by Kerry Hill Architects to further reflect the resort’s commitment to craftsmanship. Each design element evokes a sense of place, providing guests with a tactile connection to the cultural and natural surroundings.
Aman Kyoto is more than a luxury resort; it is an immersive sanctuary where every detail has been meticulously considered. From the serene spa pavilions to the private outdoor dining spots nestled within the garden, every aspect of the experience invites guests to slow down and savor the moment.
Whether you’re admiring the changing colors of the garden’s maple trees in autumn or soaking in the warm waters of the onsen, Aman Kyoto offers a sensory journey that embodies the timeless spirit of Japan.
For those seeking a design retreat that blends the past and present with unparalleled elegance, Aman Kyoto stands as a destination like no other—a place where nature, history, and architecture converge in perfect harmony.
