Amanjiwo, Indonesia
A hidden jewel at Java’s centre Amanjiwo rests in the shadows of the largest Buddhist temple complex in the world, Borobudur, which reopens to visitors from 1 March 2023.
Written by Kyoko Sekine
Shaping Amanemu
The Osaki Peninsula, the stage of Amanemu, is a pristine forest covered with dense trees on a high plateau, just 30 to 40 meters from the sea. To ensure the resort’s sensitive integration into such an environment, a dedicated team carried out an intense reforestation plan, to ensure the development did not cause harm to the trees on the premises. The planting of many new maples, blossoms and even a yam tree ensued, creating a diverse range of plant species for guests to enjoy.
Meaningful gardens
On the site of Amanemu, a number of meaningful gardens, large and small, form spaces of quiet reflection. The Arrival Pavilion’s Garden with panoramic views of the sea, is home to a large, 50-year-old yam tree which was transported to the resort during its construction. A place for guests to find balance, the garden offers a sense of perspective, overlooking Ago Bay through a field of silver grass and Japanese pampas trees. At the garden’s centre, a ‘path-like path’ takes a zigzag form - a purposeful design detail inviting those who walk on its stones to interact with the garden that surrounds.
Guests can also appreciate Amanemu’s natural setting from its Tsuki Villa. Resting on a site over 1842 square meters in size, the villa’s expansive private gardens overlook the bay, providing the perfect backdrop for private dining, family escapes or even intimate wedding ceremonies.
Diverse coastal landscapes
The Ise Shima region that Amanemu calls home was renowned as the breadbasket of Japan’s ancient imperial court, and once nicknamed the ‘Land of Food’ for its exceptional bounty. Amanemu celebrates the bounty and diversity of ingredients naturally available nearby – both in the chefs’ cuisine and the bartenders’ cocktails - using the freshest and finest local produce including lobster and abalone from Ago Bay, and Matsusaka beef.
The Aman ethos
Since inception, Aman’s ethos has always been to care for the environments it inhabits, remaining respectful of the culture and traditions rooted in the regions. Staying true to this philosophy, leading landscape designers, builders and architects created Amanemu in harmony with Ise-Shima’s natural environment. From small details such as the Sanshu tiles on the roof that wrap around each villa and shine silver in the sunlight, reflecting the colours of the ocean, to monumental design considerations, such as the contrast between the buildings’ external walls and large roofs that hide each structure between the greenery.