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Aman Tokyo
why

Aman Transforms into Urban Oasis, Offering Respite to Tokyo

Aman's recent endeavors are captivating. Once renowned for secluded nature retreats, Aman now ventures into cityscapes, expanding its reach by inaugurating a hotel in a bustling metropolis. This move, bringing Aman closer to urban life, signifies a novel approach to relaxation, fostering a harmonious coexistence within city centers rather than distant locales. Rooted in a profound reverence for nature, local culture, and refined aesthetics, Aman reimagines urban spaces, offering a sanctuary amidst the complexities of city life. Embracing its ethos of tranquility, Aman evolves into an urban forest, inviting weary souls to find solace within its embrace.

Aman Tokyo, notably the first of its kind, holds symbolic significance as Aman's inaugural foray into urban retrogression. Nestled in Tokyo's bustling Otemachi district, amidst towering skyscrapers, it paradoxically emerges as an oasis where the city's natural beauty unfolds. Like an island amidst a sea of urbanity, it offers panoramic vistas of Shinjuku's towering forest, the Imperial Palace and its surrounding gardens, and the majestic silhouette of Mount Fuji. Its minimalist design, elegantly understated, allows guests to immerse themselves fully in the awe-inspiring scenery, while unexpected encounters with nature amidst the city's hustle evoke profound emotions.

Furthermore, Aman Tokyo offers curated experiences that encapsulate the essence of Japanese culture, from sumo wrestling to nocturnal cruises, enriching guests' exploration of Tokyo's vibrant offerings. It becomes a haven where one can cleanse the soul at the juncture of city and nature. Thus, the narrative of Aman Tokyo unfolds—a beacon of tranquility in the heart of the city, offering respite and inspiration to weary travelers.
people

The Expanding Realm of Aman

Aman's journey commenced with the establishment of Amanpuri in 1988, nestled on Phuket Island, Thailand. The Sanskrit word "aman" translates to "peace," reflecting the brand's vision to offer tranquil havens amidst pristine natural landscapes, where visitors could rejuvenate body and mind in serene seclusion. Collaborating with renowned architects like Kelly Hill, Ed Tuttle, Jean-Michel Gathy and Jaya Ibrahim, Aman sought to seamlessly integrate nature and local culture into its spaces, evolving from a mere resort brand to a holistic lifestyle experience. Through its resorts, Aman has crafted extraordinary environments that inspire new perspectives, a philosophy echoed in its hotels and furniture collections, extending the essence of comfort to a wider audience.

In recent years, Aman has unveiled upscale destinations such as Aman Tokyo and Aman New York, broadening its offerings beyond resorts. Additionally, it has introduced JANU, a lifestyle brand signifying "soul" in Sanskrit, will deliver an elevated guest experience akin to Aman, while providing a spirited social scene in contrast to Aman’s whisper quiet seclusion. And also diversifying into residential developments and interior design, thereby enriching lives beyond traditional hospitality boundaries.
Aman Tokyo
location

Sensing Tokyo's Pulse Beating Closer

Aman, possessing a profound appreciation for the riches of nature and enduring cultural heritage, felt a natural inclination towards Tokyo. Recognizing Tokyo as a vibrant cultural hub, where the splendor of nature intertwines seamlessly with local traditions amidst the bustling urban landscape, Aman found significance in establishing its inaugural urban hotel in this dynamic city. This endeavor aimed to encapsulate Tokyo's essence, thus paving the way for a novel interpretation of the Aman experience.

Nestled amidst Tokyo's Otemachi district, close to the Nihonbashi area with its history and tradition, Aman Tokyo diverges from the bustling energy of Roppongi, Harajuku, and Omotesando, offering a serene retreat amidst Japan's traditional ambiance. Here, amidst the fusion of ancient shopping arcades, artisanal craft shops, towering edifices, and bustling crowds, one encounters the daily tapestry of Japanese life. Yet, Aman's commitment to providing a haven of tranquility remains unwavering. A verdant oasis, reminiscent of a forest, offers respite from the urban cacophony, with flora sourced from Kimitsu, Chiba Prefecture, seamlessly integrating seasonal Japanese nature into the hotel's ambiance.

Ascending to the upper lobby unveils a striking contrast, as the panoramic views through expansive windows offer a serene vista of Tokyo's iconic landmarks—the towering edifices of the Imperial Palace, the urban jungle of Shinjuku, and the distant silhouette of Mount Fuji. It is here, on the 33rd floor, that the rationale behind Aman Tokyo's location becomes clear—a vantage point where Tokyo's essence unfolds in all its splendor, offering guests an unparalleled perspective of the city's innate beauty.
MAKING STORY

Aman Tokyo occupies the 33rd to 38th floors of the Otemachi Tower, a towering complex standing approximately 200 meters tall. Prior to the tower's construction, meticulous planning was undertaken to organize the floor layout and envision the guest experience, ensuring a seamless and enriching stay. Central to the construction process was the design of the pillars, crucial for creating a sense of grandeur in the main lobby on the 33rd floor and delivering an extraordinary guest experience.

However, as the pillars spanned the entire height of the building, not just the floors designated for the hotel, extensive coordination with authorities was necessary. Given the inability to modify the structure once the pillars were erected, concerted efforts were made to maximize floor space while minimizing the size and impact of the pillars. Hotel planners maintained rigorous standards for Aman Tokyo and collaborated closely with building owners and officials to integrate these considerations into the design from the project's inception.#
Aman is dedicated to intricately weaving local cultural and traditional elements into its resorts and hotels, a fundamental aspect to consider in space planning. Kerry Hill, overseeing the Tokyo project, drew inspiration from traditional Japanese residential architecture to inform the design process. This influence is most prominently showcased in the main lobby, where a soaring 30-meter ceiling adorned with wooden frames and window paper evokes the ambiance of Japanese cabinetry, transforming the space into a veritable work of art. Soft light filtering through the papered windows illuminates a Japanese-style rock garden, while a tea lounge adjacent to the corridor invites guests to savor tea and spirits amidst the tranquil setting. Moreover, the design aims to seamlessly integrate with Tokyo's natural surroundings, offering expansive views of the cityscape through the lobby's vast windows, providing a serene and unique perspective of Tokyo's urban landscape.

Each suite offers stunning vistas of the Imperial Palace and surrounding forest, complemented by artworks depicting Japanese nature motifs, enhancing the connection between the interior and exterior environments. Notably, the preservation of this panoramic view as an exclusive feature is a testament to Aman Tokyo's commitment to its surroundings, as stringent urban development policies prohibit the construction of tall buildings obstructing the view between the hotel and the Imperial Palace. Furthermore, Aman Tokyo's transformation into an urban forest expands its reach, offering unique experiences not only to guests but also to visitors. From forest-surrounded cafes to Italian and sushi restaurants, as well as high-quality spas, Aman Tokyo extends its hospitality beyond lodging, providing a diverse array of programs and spaces for all to enjoy.#
SPACE

At the Interface Between Bustling Urban Landscapes and Serene Nature

Aman Tokyo offers a lavish and serene environment that honors nature, culture, and local heritage, providing guests with a distinctive and luxurious experience. Seamlessly blending the dynamic energy of the city with the tranquil ambiance of Aman, the hotel invites visitors to immerse themselves in Tokyo's urban vibrancy while basking in the essence of nature.

The guest rooms at Aman Tokyo embrace traditional Japanese aesthetics, featuring exquisite materials such as washi paper, wood, and stone. With panoramic windows offering views of Mount Fuji or Tokyo cityscape, uniquely designed bedrooms, and distinctive bathtubs, each room provides a one-of-a-kind experience. Additionally, the spa facilities offer a sanctuary for city travelers seeking mental and physical rejuvenation, including a swimming pool with stunning sunrise and sunset vistas and tranquil treatment rooms promoting deep relaxation.

Enhancing guests' understanding of Tokyo, the hotel offers a variety of programs designed to provide immersive cultural experiences. From the "Asageiko" experience, where guests can participate in morning practice with sumo wrestlers, to twilight cruises along the Sumida River showcasing Tokyo's night skyline, and intimate Art Journey experiences, Aman Tokyo offers a truly unique exploration of the city.
INTERVIEW

Interview with Minako Hayata, Marketing &Communications Director for Aman Tokyo

stayfolio
Aman Tokyo
Would you please introduce yourself?
I'm Hayata (早田), responsible for overseeing marketing communications for Aman in Japan.
I'd be delighted to hear insights into the planning, design, and completion of Aman Tokyo.
Aman prides itself on creating extraordinary environments that offer a stark departure from everyday life, emphasizing the importance of providing guests with a truly transformative experience. While Tokyo may have evolved over the years, the founder of Aman envisioned a space that would consistently surprise and delight customers, transcending the boundaries of a traditional resort company. Central to this vision is the seamless integration of beautiful natural surroundings and rich local culture. Tokyo, Japan's bustling metropolis, with its diverse cultural tapestry and elevated level of sophistication, naturally piques curiosity as a destination of interest for Aman.
Aman Tokyo, situated within a bustling downtown edifice, initially posed challenges in embodying Aman's philosophy. How did you encapsulate Aman's ethos within this urban space?
Upon entering the main lobby on the 33rd floor, the panoramic view reaffirms the significance of this location. Particularly to the west of Tokyo, where the interconnected mountains offer a breathtaking backdrop, showcasing the splendor of Mt. Fuji on clear days. During winter evenings, the sunsets behind Mt. Fuji, casting a mesmerizing array of orange and purple hues against the skyline—a sight rarely witnessed amidst Tokyo's urban sprawl. Moreover, on the building's ground floor, a tranquil oasis awaits—a small forest nurtured by the building's owner. This verdant sanctuary serves as a refuge for urban dwellers amidst the concrete jungle, fostering a connection with nature to soothe weary minds. Dubbed the "pre-forest," it's a meticulously crafted environment sourced from Kimitsu (君津) in Chiba Prefecture, meticulously mimicking Otemachi's surroundings before transplanting the flora. Here, amidst evergreen foliage, one can experience the rhythms of nature—sprouting, autumnal leaves, and eventual withering—immersed in a verdant haven.
The grandeur of the lobby on the 33rd floor is truly striking. One may wonder why you opted for such a vast vertical space instead of maximizing room occupancy.
At the heart of Aman's philosophy lies the provision of spaces for inspiration and reflection. The expansive lobby, often a source of awe for first-time visitors, serves as a testament to this philosophy. While some may question the decision not to allocate this space for additional rooms or banquet halls, it is precisely this empty expanse that fosters meaningful connections among guests, transcending the confines of everyday life. In this regard, Aman stands uniquely positioned as a hotel group capable of facilitating such profound experiences.
Aman's distinctive offering lies in its immersive programs that deeply engage guests with the local culture, seamlessly integrated into the surrounding region. Do you mind telling us some of activities?
One standout experience is the "Asageiko(朝稽古)", held within a sumo training room. Participants have the rare opportunity to observe morning sumo practice sessions, followed by a brief sumo wrestling experience alongside the wrestlers themselves. Concluding the session, guests have the chance to have breakfast (Chankonabe) with the sumo wrestlers, fostering a memorable cultural exchange. For those desiring a different perspective of Tokyo, consider embarking on a cruise along the Sumida River, traversing from the east of Tokyo to Odaiba. Whether during the day, at sunset, or under the starlit night sky, this stylish boat journey offers enchanting views of Tokyo Tower and the Sky Tree, providing a unique vantage point of the city's iconic landmarks. Art enthusiasts can indulge in the "Art Journey" program, curated to immerse guests in Tokyo's vibrant art scene. This includes participating in top-tier art programs, curated gallery visits, or expert-led tours of art exhibitions, tailored to suit individual tastes and preferences.
Aman, following the departure of its founder Adrian Zecha, appears to be undergoing a period of transformation. While the core values of exceptional customer service remain steadfast, there are notable shifts in business strategies, including the introduction of second brands such as 'Janu Tokyo' and a focus on residences over traditional hotel resorts. As someone who has closely observed Aman's evolution, I'm curious about the direction the company will take in the future.
Aman's ability to create hotels and resorts with a distinct aesthetic sensibility has always been commendable. Presently, the brand is transitioning from being solely a hotel resort brand to a more comprehensive lifestyle brand. Contrary to the tranquility implied by the name "Aman," the recent launch of JANU represents a departure into a lifestyle brand emphasizing the concept of "soul." In today's landscape, where travelers seek not only relaxation but also meaningful connections and cultural exploration, this new brand aims to facilitate personal growth and inner vitality. Moreover, Aman is expanding its portfolio by venturing into the residence business and introducing a lifestyle collection that embodies Aman's signature aesthetic. This includes travel essentials such as bags, resort wear, and skincare products, catering to the evolving needs of modern travelers. Additionally, the company has recently ventured into the interior design sector, offering bespoke furniture crafted by artisans, thereby extending the essence of Aman into daily life experiences, even for those who may not physically visit an Aman property.

STAY’s recommended
Local Restaurant

Arva

Experience delectable authentic Italian cuisine at our restaurant. True to its name, which translates to "land of cultivation" in Latin, our establishment embodies essential yet innovative recipes crafted from fresh seasonal ingredients.

Musashi by Aman

Indulge in Omakase Dining by Musashi, renowned master of Edo-style sushi, and experience the epitome of sushi craftsmanship. Limited to just 8 customers, Musashi personally oversees the preparation of each dish, ensuring an unparalleled dining experience from bowl to plate.

STAY’s recommended
Local Cafe

The Cafe by AMAN

Nestled within the tranquil Otemachi Forest, our café spans 3,600 square meters, surrounded by a lush green landscape featuring over 56,000 meticulously selected plants. Immerse yourself in the soothing embrace of nature as you savor our diverse and refined menu offerings, including original pastries, teas, and champagnes.

STAY

An exclusive sanctuary for those in search of refined tranquility and serene repose, Aman Tokyo offers a haven amidst the bustling city center, evoking a sense of timeless allure.

For those yearning for an unforgettable journey in Tokyo, we invite you to peruse the editor's diary below, spotlighting five extraordinary experiences that will elevate your visit to the capital to new heights.
4 POINT OF VIEW

ORIGINALITY

Aman's Debut City Hotel Concept

Tokyo's inaugural urban hotel offers an unparalleled cultural experience and distinctive identity. It encapsulates Aman's aspiration to carve out a sanctuary within a bustling metropolis, akin to a verdant forest oasis. Beyond immersive gastronomic offerings, sightseeing opportunities, and traditional experiences unique to Tokyo, guests are treated to an enriching architectural design that intricately reimagines traditional Japanese residential styles, ensuring a rich and unforgettable stay.

DESIGN

Unveiling Tokyo's Hidden Natural Haven

Transported by the awe-inspiring scenery, one could easily forget they're in the heart of Tokyo's bustling center. Every aspect of the hotel is meticulously crafted to immerse guests in Tokyo's natural beauty, with the aim of painting each moment of their stay with a fresh and extraordinary landscape. From the lush central building forest to the captivating vistas of sunrise and sunset framing the Imperial Palace, Mount Fuji, and the city skyline, the experience is truly exceptional. It's a rare opportunity to glimpse the unspoiled nature amidst the intricate layers of urban space.

Hospitality

Elevated Hospitality Enhancing Your Stay

From the moment you step into the elevator, personalized and genuine hospitality unfolds for every guest. Anticipating your needs, our attentive staff provide tailored information and thoughtful communication, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience. With a curated selection of activities ranging from art tours to craft workshops and gallery visits, blending tradition with modernity, we aim to guide our guests towards a deeper and more meaningful travel journey.

PRICE

A Tokyo Journey Exclusive to Aman Tokyo

Embark on a Tokyo adventure that's uniquely Aman Tokyo, offering an incomparable blend of local charm, refined surroundings, and impeccable service. Every moment, from dining and savoring to unwinding and exploring, unfolds against an exclusive backdrop that captures the essence of Tokyo. Simply surrender to the enchanting experience curated by Aman Tokyo, delving deeply into the extraordinary hospitality that awaits just beyond the realms of everyday life.

Stay Name
Aman Tokyo

Stay Type
Resort

Contact information

Address
The Otemachi Tower 1-5-6 Otemachi Chiyoda-ku 100-0004 Tokyo Japan

Guests / No. of Room
1~3 / 6

Price
US$ 1,117 ~ US$ 3,427

Check-in / out
15:00 / 12:00

Feature
Breakfast, Dinner, Projector or TV, Swimming pool, Tub (ex. Jacuzzi, Hinoki)

PHOTO BY courtesy of Aman Tokyo © Amanresorts Limited 1996-present. All Rights Reserved. | WRITTEN BY Eunji Shin | | INTERVIEW Sung hwi Min | English Translation by Jenna Lee |