The sweet-smelling cypress buckets (this pic and below opposite) are used in traditional onsen
the aroma,” says Kiyono, adding that signature treatments harness the power of indigenous, seasonal healing herbs (or kampo) such as pine, Japanese citrus, yuzu oil and ginger. “Our international travellers are interested in the Japanese way of life – perceived as long and healthy – so these seasonal and traditional elements engage all our guests equally.” Aroma again plays its part in the
provision of sweet-smelling cypress buckets for the shower stations and hot bath, a feature that harks back to the tradition of onsen. Kiyono notes that this naturally creates social interaction too as Japanese guests show overseas counterparts how to tie a yukata and how
Shuhei Hasado’s famous artwork in the spa reception (left); natural light adds to guests’ wellbeing (right)
to scrub themselves at the shower stations before relaxing in the hot water.
Organic touches Kiyono says there’s nothing about the spa she would change, explaining that she worked for a year in conjunction with Kerry Hill Architects on selecting accessories and art to harmonise with the concept. There are no bright colours and technology is hidden innovatively; a music
speaker, for example, is disguised as a wooden sculpture. Artwork is organic and sensitive to the natural theme – esteemed artist Shuhei Hasado installed his piece Winter Flowers as part of the spa entrance, forming a hotel triptych devised from his unique plastering technique. Aman Spa’s light-drenched facilities
and spacious layout support Kiyono’s team in delivering integrative treatments and movement therapies that contribute to their guests’ sense of wellness. “So many city spas in Tokyo lack natural light, but our design benefits the positive energy of both guests and staff,” she says. “Guests also feel they have had an authentic insight into the Japanese lifestyle.”
©CYBERTREK 2015
spabusiness.com issue 2 2015 55
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