Connecting with Nature: Inside Janu Tokyo

Janu, the sibling to the Aman Hotel group that launched in 2020, has just opened its first property in Azabudai Hills, a new city in Tokyo conceived as a modern urban village. The mixed-use development is surrounded by vast, lush green space and houses business, residential, and retail property. The central idea behind Janu Tokyo is to encourage people to live among nature and put their well-being first.

If Aman properties radiate a sense of zen-like tranquility, Janu’s exude a more playful, sociable spirit. This ethos of conviviality and connection has informed every aspect of Janu Tokyo. The eight dining concepts merge European with Asian culinary styles in contemporary spaces that feel recognizably Aman but with a more casual yet still elevated attitude. They range from an Italian eatery with open kitchens and homemade pasta to sushi to upscale Cantonese. Janu Lounge and Garden Terrace serves afternoon tea with views of Tokyo Tower, while the Janu Bar raises cocktail making to an art form thanks to venerable mixologist Shuzo Nagumo.

The 122 guest rooms and suites start at 592 square feet—far more spacious than a standard hotel room. Renowned hotel designer Jean Michel Gathy of Denniston opted for Japanese minimalism to evoke a sense of symmetry and harmony against the urban din of greater Tokyo, while European accents add grandeur. The Janu Suite is the largest room, with two sprawling balconies, views of Tokyo Tower and Azabudai Hills, a full kitchen, study, and lounge. Large groups can combine the suite’s three adjoining rooms for a palatial 5,586-square-foot suite.

Wellness is always at the heart of the Aman experience—and Janu is no different. A multidisciplinary spa and wellness centre spans four floors and houses Tokyo’s largest gym, movement studios, group exercise classes, and several pools. There are also two spa houses, a hair and nail salon, and seven private treatment rooms for spa services and treatments.

Janu is introducing what the brand calls restorative travel: experience-led, immersive travel with a more casual, relaxed approach to hospitality at the highest end.

Photography by Robert Rieger.