Why book?
The first iteration of Aman’s baby brother brand is not merely a “luxury lite” version of its older sibling—it’s a high-end experience unto itself, with its own distinct personality.
Set the scene
Immediately upon exiting the elevator into the Janu Tokyo’s lofted lobby, you’ll know you’ve entered a rarified members-only space befitting some of the world’s coolest private clubs. International guests are walking fashion statements as they move between their rooms and the different dining and wellness spaces. The Janu Tokyo is indeed tucked into a corporate tower much like every other high-end hotel in the city, but unlike its competitors, it’s not lofted at the crown of the structure; it occupies the lower floors instead. This makes it feel like you’re a Tokyo resident going about your everyday life (but with a luxury twist)—very fitting with the brand’s more chilled out attitude.
The backstory
If you’re seeking Aman’s tradition of ultra-luxe accommodation, which is deeply grounded in a highly refined sense of place, you’re better off booking into the Aman Tokyo. Janu Tokyo should be considered a completely separate endeavor that feels more casual than hallowed, targeting a younger affluent traveler.
The rooms
With a coterie of different architects leaving their mark on the fledgling brand’s first build, the design of the rooms feels distinct from the more public spaces. Japan decor enthusiasts will see touchstones of local culture, but they’ve all been reinterpreted in modern ways: traditional shoji screens are metal-and-fabric rolling panels and old hinoki soaking tubs are mod stone and porcelain basins. For the best intersection of price and value, we liked the Deluxe Rooms, although the views are not as expansive as those in the suites.
Food and drink
While the Janu may want to be known for its tenets of wellness and community, its actual super-strength lies within its food and beverage programming. Even if you decide not to stay on property it’s worth booking dinner at Sumi, an intimate, dining-in-the-round experience where 13 patrons are seated at the kitchen countertop with front-row seats as the chef prepares a delightfully creative multi-course meat and fish menu, all enhanced with flavorful charcoal smoke. Cantonese, Italian, and French concepts are also on offer to cater to the fashionable folks visiting Azabudai Hills’ luxury boutiques.
The spa
With a focus on building community from within, the Janu Tokyo’s wellness spaces lean toward group fitness, with several dedicated studios in which guests can partake in everything from aerial yoga, sound baths, and spin classes. The massive, resort-sized pool is also worth checking out.
The neighborhood/area
Azabudai appeared as if from thin air, revitalizing what was previously a rather staid precinct of office buildings. Now, it’s Tokyo’s newest luxury enclave with boutiques from all of the world’s biggest high-end heavyweights and smattering of international eateries all tied together with some of the most compellingly creative and futuristic architecture the city’s retail scene has ever seen.
The service
One our visit, the language barrier here was higher than those of some other ultra-luxury hotels in the city. But service was attentive and kind, particularly in the evening dining venues and at the wellness center.