Aman Kyoto

Set to open in late 2019 as the hospitality brand’s third property in Japan, Aman Kyoto is hidden away in a secret garden at the foot of the mountain of Hidari Daimonji, north of Kyoto. The 80‑acre property in the Takagamine district is steeped in culture and heritage, and located just a stone’s throw away from the Unesco World Heritage Site of Kinkaku-ji Temple. The forested grounds were once part of an artistic community that gave rise to the historic Rinpa school of painting in 17th-century Kyoto, and eight acres of manicured gardens belonged to one of Japan’s most respected obi (the ornamental sash for a traditional Japanese kimono) collectors, who had originally planned to build a textile museum within the garden for his collection. The ethereal landscape, dotted with colourful yama momiji maples and enclosed by a small running stream, now provides the foundation for Aman Kyoto. Designed by Kerry Hill Architects, the resort is a modern reimagining of Japan’s traditional inns, with floor-to-ceiling windows and furniture pieces exclusively designed for the property. In true ryokan fashion, each guest room also boasts ofuro bathtubs made of native hinoki wood. Of course, no Aman retreat is complete without the Aman Spa, which offers holistic benefits of Japan’s ancient wellness practices. The spa’s extensive menu of treatments taps into the country’s natural apothecary, such as Kyoto green tea, local sake and Kyoto silk cocoon. End with a relaxing soak in the traditional onsen, filled with local spring water that helps heal weary travellers. aman.com