Why talking about Aman is talking about something else
Aman is not a hotel chain. It is a philosophy that materialised for the first time in 1988 in Phuket (Amanpuri) and today manages 35 properties across the whole world. What sets it apart from any other luxury brand rests on three elements: integration with the surroundings (each Aman is designed almost like a temple to the place where it stands), the service ratio (1 staff member per guest at many properties), and absolute discretion (the majority of guests are repeat visitors returning to specific properties).
This guide is for those who already know that Aman is a different choice and want to understand which one fits their next trip best.
Aman Tokyo · To understand Japan from the sky
Thirty-seven floors above the Otemachi financial district, with views over the Imperial Palace and Mount Fuji on clear days. It is Tokyo's most low-key and quiet urban hotel: only 84 rooms in a building that could hold 600. Suites are immense (even the "basic" ones are 71 m²) with panoramic views. Aman Tokyo's spa is a world reference, especially the pool with city views.
When to choose it: first time in Tokyo, cultural trips, honeymoons, couples who want to combine culture with urban rest. Indicative price from 1,800 € · night in a standard suite.
Aman Kyoto · The essence of contemplative Japan
Twenty-six pavilions spread across 32 hectares of private forest north of Kyoto. The architecture is minimalist, almost monastic. No phones, no visible screens. Private onsen, daily tea ceremony, seasonal kaiseki cuisine. The Aman for those who really want to disconnect, not "do Kyoto".
When to choose it: retreats, honeymoons, a second trip to Japan (when you already know the touristy Kyoto). For a first visit, better to combine Aman Kyoto + Aman Tokyo. From 2,200 € · night.
Amanyangyun · The Chinese surprise
35 km from Shanghai, 26 traditional Ming-Qing period villas relocated stone by stone from Jiangxi (an unprecedented cultural conservation project). Forest of thousand-year-old camphor trees. 2,800 m² spa. It is one of Aman's most ambitious projects and possibly the most underrated property in Asia.
When to choose it: a China trip combined with Beijing + Xi'an, a relaxed escape near Shanghai, couples looking for something unique. From 1,500 € · night.
Amanjena · Imperial Morocco
9 km from Marrakesh, 39 pavilions and maisons inspired by Mudéjar architecture. Private pools in many suites, traditional hammam, updated Moroccan gastronomy. The sense of a private palace in the middle of the desert is hard to describe.
When to choose it: a 4-5 night escape, a short honeymoon, combinable with the Atlas or the Agafay desert. From 1,400 € · night.
Aman Venice · The Grand Canal in palace form
16th-century Palazzo Papadopoli with original frescoes by Tiepolo. Only 24 suites. The feeling is of experiencing a private Venetian palace, not a hotel. Private boat included. Spa with sauna in the attic with views over the domes.
When to choose it: a sophisticated honeymoon, a wedding anniversary, an intense cultural escape of 4-6 nights. Combinable with Tuscany or Cinque Terre. From 2,500 € · night.
Amankora (Bhutan) · The five valleys
Five lodges in five different valleys of Bhutan (Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey, Bumthang). Suites with fireplace, landscapes that leave you speechless and complete integration with local culture. Aman is practically the only luxury option in Bhutan at that level.
When to choose it: a spiritual journey, an in-depth exploration of Bhutan, combinable with Nepal or India. From 2,000 € · person/night (nearly all-inclusive package with visa permits).
Amanyara · The Caribbean without clichés
In Providenciales (Turks and Caicos), 40 pavilions with ocean views and 4-5 bedroom villas for groups. One of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Excellent to combine with an urban Aman (Aman New York is next to Central Park).
When to choose it: honeymoon, family escapes, groups of friends in a private villa. From 1,800 € · night in a standard pavilion.
Amanpuri · The first Aman
Where it all began, in Phuket. 40 pavilions plus 30 private villas. After a recent renovation, it remains a benchmark. One of the best spas in the world, beach club on the finest cove of Phuket, high-end Thai gastronomy.
When to choose it: first time in Thailand, multi-generational trips (the villas are ideal), couples who want to combine beach + intensive spa. From 1,400 € · night.
Aman New York · Manhattan in zen form
83 suites in the historic Crown Building, facing Central Park. Sky lobby with a private garden and Japanese restaurant. 2,300 m² spa with a 20 m pool. It is the only way to experience New York with the calm of Aman.
When to choose it: urban bleisure trips, extended cultural escapes (Broadway, museums, MoMA), anniversaries. From 3,000 € · night.
Aman Sveti Stefan · A private island
In Montenegro, on a small medieval islet connected by a walkway. Cottage rooms on the island, suites at Villa Miločer on the beach. It is probably the most photogenic Aman in the catalogue. Partially closed since 2023 — verify availability before quoting.
How to choose the right Aman
The question is not "which is the best Aman". It is: what do you want to experience? If you want to disconnect completely, Aman Kyoto, Amankora or Amanyangyun. If you want a sophisticated honeymoon in Europe, Aman Venice or Aman Le Mélézin (in the Alps). If you want urban + relaxation combined, Aman Tokyo or Aman New York. If you are looking for your first Aman experience without spending €2,500 per night, Amanyangyun and Amanjena are the two most recommendable entry points.
When you book through us, you receive Aman Connect amenities: spa credit, daily breakfast, possible upgrades and flexible check-out. If you would like to put together a multi-Aman route, write to us.
About the author
Elena González Teruel
Director of Luxury Atelier by Presstour. Decades of quietly opening doors others can't — Asia, boutique cruises, ultra-luxury hotels.
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