A time to reflect
As the year draws to a close and the festive season ensues, Aman’s retreats across the globe celebrate reflection in all its forms.
Establishing deep, lasting connections with local communities and cultures around the world has been an intrinsic part of the Aman philosophy ever since the first destination opened. To celebrate this, Aman Tokyo presents several exclusive experiences in which guests are invited to touch the fabric of Japan's cultural identity and contribute to the preservation of Tokyo's local arts, crafts and cultures.
The art of Tokyo
Take an immersive tour of Tokyo’s creative culture and history with a tailor-made tour of the city’s contemporary and classical art galleries. Insiders Renna Okubo and Wakako Tezen, both experienced curators and consultants, lead bespoke experiences built around personal interests, including both leading galleries and off-the-beaten-track art spaces normally inaccessible to the public. Art experiences can be adapted to assist collectors looking to acquire new pieces.
Sumo behind the scenes
Discover the remarkable history and rich traditions of Japan’s iconic sport with a visit to a sumo-beya (stable) to see the wrestlers in training. Spend the morning witnessing the discipline and rigour that underpins the practice.
Progressive art experiences
In Japan, art has many faces, not only referring to the traditional fine arts but a range of skills, techniques and rituals that form a part of everyday life. From confectionary (wagashi) to pottery, Japan’s highly regarded arts are not only considered for their aesthetic beauty, but the impact they have on mind, body and soul.
Whether experiencing the mindfulness of the tea ceremony or the gently meditative process of floral arrangement, Aman Tokyo’s progressive art experiences offer exclusive and impactful experiences in Japan’s arts – traditional and contemporary.
Nihonbashi artisan experiences
In an effort to protect the subtleties of ancient Japanese arts, guests of Aman Tokyo have the opportunity to visit several long-standing Tokyo craftsmen. Based in Nihonbashi, an area dotted with historic establishments, exclusive experiences include visits to Chikusen, a historic store specialising in hand-dyed yukata kimonos; Ibasen, a producer of stylish uchiwa folding fans; Oonoya Sohonten, a traditional Japanese footwear store selling unique Shintomi-style Tabi shoes, and Uchida Hyogu ten, a small store where artisans can be observed working on kakejiku (hanging scrolls), shoji screens tailored from cloth and paper, as well as intricate wall coverings.
Often inaccessible the public, in each location Aman Tokyo invites guests to take part in half or full-day courses, trying their hand at ancient construction techniques passed down by generations. In some locations, guests can also create their own bespoke pieces to take home, learning about the history of Japanese manufacturing and the artisan culture of the Edo period along the way.
