Janu, which means “soul” in Sanskrit – heralds a new era of hospitality with the opening of Janu Tokyo in March 2024. It is the highly anticipated sibling brand of the renowned Aman. Janu’s unveiling is the first of 12 Janu projects planned globally in various city, countryside and coastal destinations. Reservations can now be made for Janu Tokyo from March.
Janu combines Aman’s 35-year history with Chairman and CEO Vlad Doronin’s extensive expertise in global property development and hospitality, bringing to life a trinity of inspiration, connection and exploration.
“The arrival of Janu Tokyo is a defining moment in the evolution of the Aman Group, not only is it the very first time we are showcasing the energised spirit of Janu, but it also symbolises the evolution and consistent strength of Aman. As we introduce this new concept in one of the greatest cities in the world, it is my vision that the Janu brand will become a trailblazer in the hospitality sector while preserving, upholding and carrying on the legendary footsteps of its Aman sibling.”
Vlad Doronin
A perfectly fitting flagship, Janu Tokio is connected to the vibrant heart of Azabudai Hills – a city within a city full of nature, culture and art created and managed by Japan‘s leading property developer Mori Building Co. Ltd. It is a progressive new district by visionary architects, as Azabudai Hills, will include Japan’s tallest skyscraper and 24,000 square metres of lush green space designed by Thomas Heatherwick, as well as offices, residences, educational galleries and over 150 luxury retail and dining outlets. 000 m² of lush green space designed by Thomas Heatherwick, as well as offices, residences, educational facilities, galleries and over 150 luxury retail and dining outlets, including a world-class Japanese speciality market. As the only hotel within the development, located in Residence A Tower, designed by esteemed architects Pelli Clarke & Partners, Janu Tokio offers 122 light-filled rooms and suites, eight restaurants, two boutiques and a 4,000 sqm state-of-the-art wellness centre.
Janu Tokio presents itself with a raised gallery and reception area. The innovative use of glass and textured mouldings reflecting soft, luminous light creates a pleasant sense of space. The ceiling is adorned with intricate lattice woodwork and woven rope arches (a modern interpretation of the traditional Japanese shimenawa technique), allowing guests to peer into the soul of Janu from the outside with comfort and ease. “Janu Tokyo’s DNA exudes a youthful energy full of vibrancy and playfulness that sets it apart from the confident and serene character of Aman,” comments Jean-Michel Gathy, the award-winning international architect responsible for the hotel’s interior design. “The spaces allow for an exciting discovery of textures, colours and design elements that awaken the senses and stimulate the imagination.”
The 4,000 m² wellness centre is designed to enhance individual well-being through the concept of connectedness and shared social experience. It features one of Tokyo’s largest gyms (340 square metres) and five studios for group training, including the only boxing ring in a Tokyo hotel, as well as spinning and first-class training, recovery and relaxation facilities. An extensive hydrotherapy and hot spring area is centred around a 25-metre heated sports pool and features a separate lounge pool – traditionally a place for socialising in Japan – as well as two private spa houses that introduce an entirely new spa concept in Japan, with cold and hot plunge pools, banya and hammam. There are nine treatment rooms as well as a relaxation studio with hyperbaric oxygen therapy chamber. For those not staying at the hotel, Janu Tokio will also offer Wellness Collective memberships, giving access to the facilities, programmes and an exclusive members’ lounge.
Janu Tokio offers a diverse selection of dining options, ranging from comfort and familiarity to exciting new ones. Janu Mercato is a lively, all-day restaurant that celebrates Italian cuisine and enriches the whole neighbourhood. Dishes are served at three open kitchen counters: one kitchen serves homemade pasta; another offers a wide selection of fresh fish and seafood prepared to order; another kitchen offers European charcuterie and cheese. Janu Mercato dishes can be enjoyed in the double-height glass-walled dining area or al fresco on the Parisian-inspired terrace, both overlooking the neighbourhood’s manicured gardens and lush greenery. The adjoining marble-walled Janu Patisserie pays homage to the European tradition of patisserie with an exquisite selection of the finest pastries and parfaits to enjoy in the café or to take away.
The hotel also has two Japanese restaurants. The first, Iigura, reinterprets the centuries-old tradition of Edomae sushi in an intimate setting, offering a selection of exquisite à la carte sashimi and small dishes or omakase food at the hinoki wooden counter. The second, Sumi, is a modern interpretation of the traditional sumiyaki grill with organic seasonal ingredients cooked over charcoal, paired with premium wine and sake. The restaurant repertoire is rounded off by Janu Grill with a spectacular show kitchen, two large wine cellars, bar and counter seating as well as Hu Jing, where guests can enjoy Cantonese specialities such as roast duck as well as modern dim sum and seafood specialities. Finally, Janu Lounge and Garden Terrace serve afternoon tea and light snacks in a tranquil atmosphere, while Janu Bar is an exclusive venue for inspired craft cocktails prepared by world-class mixologists.
Located on floors six to 13, Janu Tokio’s rooms and suites start at 55 square metres and offer timeless, Asian-inspired interiors with contemporary European accents. A strong focus on minimalism and symmetry promotes comfort and creates a harmonious balance of energy. Most have their own private balcony from which guests can soak in the city skyline or the surrounding greenery of Azabudai Hill, while the Corner and Tower View Suites enjoy views in both directions through magnificent arched windows. Many are also connected to neighbouring rooms and suites, creating a seamless connection for groups and families travelling together. All feature large bathrooms with double sinks, rain showers and customised bathtubs – separated from the bedrooms by sliding partitions – as well as spacious walk-in wardrobes and inviting living areas.
The Janu Suite is the largest in the hotel and has 284 m² of inviting living space. The two expansive balconies offer mesmerising views of the city, while a modern kitchen with bar, a dining table for up to six guests, a separate study/library and a spacious lounge create a luxurious home away from home. Combined with the three adjoining room categories, the Janu Suite totals 519 square metres, making it the largest suite available in Tokio.
Janu Tokio is proof of a perfect synergy of first-class design and great interior design. It is in perfect harmony with the city, fostering purposeful connection and restoring balance through the rhythmic energy it draws from its surroundings. Whether invigorated by social well-being, revitalised at the convivial dining table or opened up by cultural discovery, the impact of each stay reaches far beyond, leaving lasting memories of Tokyo’s delightful allure.