Janu – Aman Hotels and Resorts’ affordable new brand – has announced the opening of its first-ever hotel in Tokyo.
Janu means “soul” in Sanskrit. The highly anticipated sibling to the renowned Aman brand, Janu’s unveiling is the first in a 12-strong global pipeline of projects across city, country, and coastal destinations.
Janu Tokyo is connected to the vibrant heart of Azabudai Hills – a city within a city, abundant in nature, culture and art – created and managed by Japan’s leading developer Mori Building Co. Ltd. A progressive new neighbourhood by architectural visionaries, Azabudai Hills features Japan’s tallest skyscraper and 24,000 square meters of lush green space designed by Thomas Heatherwick, alongside offices, residences, educational institutions, galleries and over 150 luxury retail and dining outlets including a world-class Japanese speciality food market.
Janu Tokyo is located in the Residence A tower designed by architects Pelli Clarke & Partners and is the only hotel within the development. The hotel features 122 beautifully designed guest rooms and suites, eight dining venues, a 4000 square meter Wellness Centre and two boutiques.
The accommodations present timeless authentic Asian-inspired interiors married with modern European accents. The designs are based on the concepts of minimalism and symmetry, curating chic designs that focus on comfort. Most come with private balconies where guests can soak in the city skyline and Azabudai Hill’s surrounding nature. Many come with connections to the neighbouring rooms and suites.
The presidential suite or The Janu Suite is the hotel’s largest room, spanning 519 square meters. It features two sprawling balconies that offer a breathtaking view of the city and a contemporary kitchen space, counter, a dining table and a seperate study cum library and spacious lounge.
The arrival of Janu Tokyo signifies a pivotal moment in Aman Group’s progression – not only introducing the energetic spirit of Janu for the very first time – but also representing the evolution and enduring strength of Aman. As we unveil this new concept in one of the world’s greatest cities, my vision is for the Janu brand to trailblaze a new direction in hospitality whilst preserving, upholding and following in the illustrious footsteps of its legendary sibling Aman.
said Vlad Doronin, Chairman and CEO, Aman Hotels and Resorts.
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Janu Tokyo reveals itself with a lofty gallery and reception, where a sense of space is fostered through considered use of glass and textured mouldings that reflect soft, glowing light. Above, a ceiling embellished with intricate lattice woodwork and rows of woven rope arches (a modern interpretation of the traditional Japanese technique of shimenawa) connects guests from street level into the soul of Janu.
The hotel’s interiors have been designed by the legendary architect Jean-Michel Gathy, who has also designed some Aman properties.
Janu Tokyo’s DNA exudes a youthful energy, brimming with liveliness and playfulness that sets it apart from the poised and composed character of Aman. The space is a thrilling exploration of textures, colours, and design elements that awakes the senses and ignites imagination.
Gathy said.
The hotel’s dining venues features cuisines that spans from homely Japanese to Italian and even European. Their in-house Japanese restaurants Iigura and Sumi make available the best of both old and new for patrons, whereas Iigura reinterprets the centuries-old tradition of Edomae sushi and Sumi serves a modern interpretation of the traditional sumibiyaki grill. Janu Mercato on the other hand brings a more exotic offering in the form of Italian cuisine. The all-day emporium serves dishes from three open kitchen counters that can be enjoyed in the glass-walled dining area or outdoors on the Parisian-inspired terrace, both of which overlook the neighbourhood’s green space. Adjoining is Janu Patisserie, an ode to European pastry traditions.
Hu Jing also offers a journey into Cantonese cuisine for a different taste palette, featuring iconic dishes like succulent roast duck, contemporary dim sum, and seafood specialities. Enhancing the culinary offerings, Janu Grill takes centre stage with its captivating show kitchen, along with two expansive wine cellars, a stylish bar, and inviting counter-style seating. For a more relaxed experience, Janu Lounge and the Garden Terrace provide the perfect setting for afternoon tea and light snacks.
Janu Tokyo’s Wellness Centre is decked with multiple features, namely one of Tokyo’s largest gyms (340 square meters), five movement studios for group exercise including the only boxing ring located within a hotel in Tokyo. An extensive hydrotherapy and thermal area centred around a 25-metre heated lap pool along with a separate lounge pool as well as two signature private Spa Houses. The hotel introduces an entirely new spa concept to Japan, with cold and hot plunge pools, Banya and Hammam. Additionally, the Wellness Centre also features nine treatment rooms as well as a recovery studio with a hyperbaric oxygen therapy chamber.
The Wellness Centre facilities can be redeemed by those not staying in the hotel as well with the help of the Wellness Collective membership, which enables access to all its facilities, programs and the exclusive members-only lounge.
Featured image by Janu
All the other images by Janu
What do you think of Aman’s newest brand Janu and its first-ever hotel? Let me know in the comments section below.
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