Amanemu – Tranquil Onsen Retreat in Ise‑Shima, Japan
Nestled on a hillside in Ise‑Shima National Park overlooking the sapphire waters of Ago Bay, Amanemu is the first Aman resort in Japan to embrace authentic onsen culture. With just 24 refined cedar-clad suites and four elegant villas, each guest pavilion frames panoramic ocean or garden views and features a private onsen bath fed by natural thermal springs. Artfully evoking traditional Japanese minka dwellings, interiors balance minimalism with warmth through expansive glass walls and pale timber finishes.
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The Ultimate Escape in Ise‑Shima
This secluded sanctuary, perched amidst camphor forests and pearl-diver culture, feels worlds away from urban life. The forested hills open gently toward Ago Bay, dotted with oyster rafts and sacred islets. Despite its remoteness, Amanemu is surprisingly accessible via a peaceful 20-minute limousine ride from Kashikojima station, which itself is linked by train to Kyoto, Osaka, and Nagoya.
Signature Experiences at Amanemu
Wellness here is rooted in Japan’s ancient bathing traditions and elevated through a 2,000 sqm spa that includes heated plunge pools, private onsen pavilions, a thermal-spring garden with daybeds, and wellness suites stocked with local botanical ingredients like pearl powder and seaweed. Guests can participate in holistic seasonal journeys combining yoga, meditation, herbal bathing, and Kampo-inspired treatments. This serene sanctuary has earned recognition as one of the world’s premier spas.
Culinary artistry is showcased in the Resort Restaurant, where regional producers supply Matsusaka Wagyu, freshly caught abalone, spiny lobster, and seasonal vegetables. Dining menus range from elevated Japanese kaiseki-style dishes to global tasting experiences. The bar, situated beside the infinity pool, serves craft cocktails and local beers amid sunset views over Ago Bay.
Exploring the Surroundings
Amanemu provides curated access to cultural rituals and natural wonders. Guests may visit the sacred Ise Jingu Shrine via private gate entry or join local Ama women freedivers for a seafood harvest demonstration. The UNESCO-listed Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails wind through the surrounding forest, inviting contemplative hikes and spiritual discovery. From pearl farms to coastal boat excursions, the resort anchors both cultural depth and scenic beauty.
Your Private Gateway to Aman
For discerning travelers seeking rare luxury in nature’s embrace, Amanemu is best reserved through private booking channels. Guests consistently benefit from priority room selection, bespoke wellness and cultural itineraries, and access to the best available enhancements. To design your personalised coastal retreat—whether forest-bathing at dawn or dinner by the bay—contact Mickey at mickey@viptablesgroup.com. Your secluded Japanese sanctuary awaits.