Aman Kyoto opened in 2019 within a remarkably private forest garden near Kinkaku-ji. The minimalist ryokan-inspired rooms open onto private garden terraces, and the property includes a ryokan-style bathhouse, swimming pool, and a forested garden path leading through moss, maples, and cherry trees. The ultimate in understated luxury and Japanese tranquility.
Aman Kyoto opened in November 2019 in the Kita Ward of northern Kyoto, occupying a deeply secluded forest garden that had been privately held and largely closed to the public for decades. The property sits on an elevated wooded hillside above the main tourist circuits, approximately fifteen minutes' walk from the Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion and twenty minutes from the Ryoanji rock garden, though its setting conveys a sense of complete remove from Kyoto's crowded sightseeing streets. The entrance is unmarked and intentionally understated; the journey from gate to reception moves guests along a forest path of cedar, moss, ancient stone lanterns, and maple canopy that is itself considered part of the Aman experience.
Aman Kyoto comprises 26 suites and pavilions designed by Kerry Hill Architects in a spare, contemporary interpretation of traditional Japanese spatial principles. Each suite opens through floor-to-ceiling shoji screens onto a private garden terrace; interior materials include raw stone, warm timber, and washi paper surfaces. No two suites are identical; garden pavilion suites have direct step access to the mossy grounds, while forest suites sit further into the hillside with complete privacy from neighbours. The overall atmosphere is deliberately quiet and unhurried — there are no children's clubs, no conference facilities, and no concession to high-volume tourism.
The dining experience at Aman Kyoto centres on a single restaurant serving both Japanese and international cuisine, with ingredients sourced from the surrounding Kyoto region and Kyoto's centuries-old market traditions. A lounge bar area serves lighter meals and a curated selection of Japanese whisky and sake. The spa, one of the most praised in the Aman portfolio, features a forest bathing trail, indoor and outdoor pools, and traditional ryokan-style soaking rooms. A heated swimming pool is set against a backdrop of moss and old growth trees.
Aman Kyoto represents the pinnacle of understated Japanese luxury. It attracts a similar guest profile to the brand's other properties worldwide — guests who seek privacy, deep service, and exceptional aesthetics over conspicuous amenity counts. Room rates are among the highest in Japan outside of the top traditional ryokan.
Amenities
- forest gardens
- spa bathhouse
- pool
- restaurant
- private terraces
- wifi
- butler service
- concierge
Location
Okitayama Washimine, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8436
35.0432, 135.7291 View on map
Highlights
- Deeply private forest garden setting in Kita Ward, secluded from Kyoto's main tourist circuits
- 26 individually designed suites opening onto private moss and maple garden terraces
- Renowned Aman Spa with forest bathing trail, heated pool, and ryokan-style soaking rooms
- 15-minute walk from Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion in northern Kyoto
- Kerry Hill Architects' spare contemporary design using raw stone, timber, and washi paper
Tips for visiting
- The entrance is intentionally unmarked — confirm directions with the hotel before arrival by taxi
- Request a garden pavilion suite for step-out direct garden access; forest suites offer greater hillside privacy
- The forest bathing trail in the grounds is best experienced at dawn before morning mist clears
- Aman's concierge can arrange private after-hours visits to Kinkaku-ji and Ryoanji — both within walking distance
- Room rates at Aman Kyoto are among Japan's highest; factor spa treatments and dining as additional costs
Accessibility
Aman Kyoto's secluded forest garden setting includes natural stone paths, uneven terrain, and gradients between buildings that present challenges for wheelchair users. The property is not fully wheelchair accessible; guests with mobility requirements are advised to contact reservations directly to discuss suite placement and path routing before booking.
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Frequently asked questions
Where is Aman Kyoto located within the city?
Aman Kyoto is located in the Kita Ward of northern Kyoto, roughly fifteen minutes on foot from Kinkaku-ji. The property is accessed via a private forest path and is not visible from the street.
How many rooms does Aman Kyoto have?
The property has 26 suites and pavilions, each individually designed. Categories include garden pavilion suites with direct moss garden access and forest suites set deeper into the hillside.
Does Aman Kyoto have an onsen?
The hotel features a full spa with indoor and outdoor soaking pools and traditional ryokan-style bathing rooms, though the water is heated rather than drawn from a natural geothermal source. The experience is modelled on traditional Japanese bathing ritual.
Is Aman Kyoto suitable for families with children?
Aman Kyoto is primarily oriented toward adult guests seeking quiet and privacy. The property does not offer children's programming. Families with children are accommodated but should note the serene atmosphere the hotel is designed to maintain.