A New Resort Nestled Within a Forest of 1,000-Year-Old Camphor Trees

Aman was founded in 1988 as a collection of private resorts. In Japan, it includes Aman Tokyo and Amanemu in Ise, and globally, it operates 31 properties across North America, Europe, Bhutan, Laos, and other regions.

The newest addition is Amanyangyun, situated approximately 27 kilometers southwest of Shanghai, China, within a forest boasting camphor trees, known as the 'Emperor's Trees,' that are up to 1,000 years old.

This camphor forest was originally located in Fuzhou City, Jiangxi Province, about 700 kilometers from Shanghai. However, with the construction of a reservoir, the forest, with over 1,000 years of history, faced extinction. Consequently, approximately 10,000 trees were transplanted over a decade. Simultaneously, 26 ancient residences, dating back 400 years, were meticulously dismantled and relocated to the Amanyangyun site as antique villas.

Thirteen of these antique villas, retaining their original stone carvings and inscriptions related to the family's ancestral teachings and history, have been transformed into 800–1,000 sqm villas with four bedrooms, private pools, jacuzzis, and courtyards. The remaining 12 villas have been elegantly repurposed as Aman Residences.

In addition, 24 'Ming Courtyard Suites' have been created. These 65 sqm spaces feature spacious, bright bedrooms with Aman's signature Asian design and elegant wood-finished living areas. The entire complex includes two private courtyards, recreating traditional residences with central courtyards.

The hotel features the 'South Study,' inspired by the imperial study rooms of the Forbidden City, serving as a space for reading, meditation, traditional music, and painting. Six dedicated rooms are also available for tea ceremony and incense ceremony practices.

Three restaurants are available on-site, notably utilizing vegetables grown within the Amanyangyun grounds. The Chinese dining venue, 'Lazu,' offers a menu curated by Executive Chef Steve Miao, a Shanghai native, blending dishes from the Ming and Qing dynasties with classic Cantonese cuisine. 'Nama,' the Japanese restaurant, overseen by Executive Chef Keiji Matoba, serves aromatic Japanese dishes that highlight premium ingredients. 'Alba,' the Italian dining restaurant, offers traditional Italian family-style shared platters. Italian cooking classes are also held every other month.

The Aman Spa, spanning 2,840 sqm, is luxuriously appointed with eight treatment rooms, two double spa suites, a sauna, a fitness center, a jacuzzi, and a pool. Guests can indulge in Aman's signature treatment programs here.

The Culture Discovery Center offers programs tailored for children of various ages, as well as nature programs for adults exploring the resort's wetlands. Various activities, including traditional Chinese lantern making, pottery, and tea ceremony experiences, cater to diverse interests.

'Yangyun' (養雲) translates to 'learning wisdom from the clouds.' Located conveniently for access from the energetic city of Shanghai, this resort, far from the urban bustle, offers a sanctuary where one can experience Chinese tradition, history, and nature.



Top row, left and center: Dining terrace. Top row, right: Dining area. Middle row, left: Lakeside cafe terrace. Middle row, center: Lounge and lobby. Middle row, right: Pool deck. Bottom row, left: Spa entrance. Bottom row, center: A suite room. Bottom row, right: Hotel bar.