Establishing deep, lasting connections with local communities and cultures around the world has been an intrinsic part of the Aman philosophy ever since the first destination – Amanpuri ­– opened almost 30 years ago in Phuket. To mark three decades of Aman and truly celebrate this philosophy, Aman’s two Japan destinations – Aman Tokyo and Amanemu – have launched a series of 12 immersive, one-of-a-kind Journeys exclusively for guests.

These 12 Journeys take place in the bustling Japan capital and the beautiful Ise Shima region. From an enchanting evening with a geisha at one of Tokyo’s most exclusive traditional ryotei restaurants, to an akoya pearl-cultivating excursion in the heart of stunning Ago Bay, they have been created to deliver memories that will last a lifetime – in essence, allowing guests to touch the fabric of Japan’s cultural identity.

Aman Tokyo Journeys
· An enchanting evening with geisha
A visit to Tsurunaka – one of Tokyo’s most exclusive ryotei restaurants – for a captivating evening in the company of a geisha.

· A sushi-making masterclass
A unique opportunity for guests to get behind the counter at Iwa Hanare, a superb seven-seat sushi restaurant in the Ginza district.

· The art of Iaido swordsmanship
A private session with a master of the katana sword, culminating with guests slicing through a straw target.

· The essence of sado and wagashi
A visit to a chashitsu teahouse to experience the Japanese tea ceremony in its true form, with guests preparing their own wagashi sweets to enjoy as a vital part of the ritual.

· Up close with the world of sumo
A morning visit to a sumo beya stable to watch the wrestlers undergo a rigorous training session, followed by a trip to the Ryogoku Kokugikan arena.

· Unearthing old Edo by rickshaw
A tour by traditional rickshaw of the Edo-period wonders surrounding Aman Tokyo.

Amanemu Journeys
· Cultivate your very own akoya pearl
A truly one-of-a-kind experience in which guests cultivate their very own akoya pearl – renowned globally for their lustre – at the water’s edge of beautiful Ago Bay.

· An ocean adventure with an ama diver
A unique opportunity to dive with a veteran female ama, followed by a delicious seafood barbeque in an amagoya hut.

· Hiking the majestic surrounds of Ise Jingu
A specially created hike through the nation’s holiest region, taking in the summit of Mt. Asama and Kongoshoji temple.

· Ise Jingu Grand Shrine and the food of the gods
A culinary tour of Ise Shima, sampling the foods offered daily to the deities at Japan’s most sacred site.

· Cycling the peaks and shores of Ise Shima
Two bespoke cycling tours – one moderate, one more challenging – of the spectacular Ise-Shima National Park area.

· A trip back in time through Nikenchaya and Kawasaki
A bespoke tour of two remarkably preserved old towns, sampling their architectural and culinary delights.