Aman Kyoto, Japan Hotel

Japan

Light flickering across a room is rarely so mesmerising – but at Aman Kyoto, the stark minimalism encourages a meditative mood and, amid the silence of its forest setting, the dappled rays are near-hypnotic. Set within a once-forgotten secret garden on the outskirts of Japan’s ancient capital, the resort’s sense of exclusivity comes easily – not least because of the impeccable décor at this converted textile museum. The 24 rooms and two villas are based on ryokan inns: tatami floors, tokonoma alcoves, hand-painted scrolls and cypress-wood baths. Garden paths snake past camphor trees, camellia and mosses, steering guests toward the mineral-rich waters of the onsen hot-spring, treatment rooms and yoga spaces. Whether it’s the elaborate breakfast served in The Living Pavilion or the omakase at Taka-An, stays are defined by the traditional hospitality perfected over millennia.

Doubles from £1,997.

Words by Rachel Walker.

This article was taken from the Christmas 2024 issue of Food and Travel. To subscribe today, click here.