The train’s carriages, adorned in Aman’s trademark minimalist aesthetic, will travel for seven hours through the region, where frenetic streets turn to tree-lined hillsides and pea-green rice paddy fields.
Breakfast and lunch will be served during the journey, along with afternoon tea accompanied by Amanjiwo’s resident anthropologist, Patrick Vanhoebrouck, who will share historic and cultural highlights.
After reaching Yogyakarta Tugu station, guests will receive a private car transfer to the iconic hotel, where stone steps descend in tiers to a magnificent swimming pool and the spa offers a menu informed by traditional Javanese healing.
A daily shuttle service from the hotel’s lobby to the nearby town of Borobudur means easy access to the area’s temple — a ninth-century marvel with 504 life-size Buddha statues.
Aman’s Journey Through Java is available on selected dates each month this year. Click here to see the full calendar and book your spot.
In the spiritual heart of Indonesia’s Central Java, where the lush horizons are etched with volcanic silhouettes and the air resonates with mysticism, lies Amanjiwo.
Here, within the shadows of the ancient Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple, Amanjiwo emerges as a sanctuary that connects the threads of history with modern comforts.
Crafted with a reverence that honours its sacred surroundings, Amanjiwo (meaning ‘peaceful soul’) is woven into the area’s fabric.
Every element of its design pays homage to the iconic temple it overlooks, from the bell-shaped rotunda that mirrors Borobudur’s stupas to the spiritually aligned suites that open up to the stunning surrounding landscape – radiating outwards like the ancient temple’s concentric mandalas.
Stone columns and sandstone walls resonate with the natural palette of the surrounding landscapes, providing a timeless connection to the storied past of Central Java.
The resort’s seamless blend of elegance and cultural authenticity invites guests to immerse themselves in an atmosphere that transcends the typical luxury experience, transporting them to a realm where the ancient and contemporary are in balance.
With a gentle architectural embrace that complements the UNESCO World Heritage site it faces, Amanjiwo provides an unrivaled vantage point from which to contemplate the profound beauty and spirituality of Central Java.
It is a sanctuary where the passage of time is marked by the beat of the gamelan, and the soul is nourished by the beauty of simplicity and the luxury of being truly present in the moment.
The Room
The Borobudur Suite, a 243 square meter sanctuary of Javanese elegance, encapsulates the essence of tranquil luxury.
The private walled garden boasts unrivaled views of the temple and the lush valley, while the interior, with its central four-pillar king-size bed on a raised terrazzo platform, embodies regal comfort.
Artisanal details like the thatched-roof pavilion and the sunken outdoor bathtub reflect a commitment to cultural authenticity and indulgent relaxation.
Amanjiwo’s service philosophy is all about anticipation and discretion.
From the moment of arrival, staff members, with their intuitive understanding of guest needs, seamlessly ensure that every experience is personalised.
With complimentary services like round-trip airport transfers, daily cultural lectures, afternoon tea and a personal butler for each suite, the resort’s hospitality extends far beyond expectations, achieving a bespoke level of care that is both attentive and unobtrusive.
The hotel’s culinary offerings are a vibrant celebration of Indonesia’s diverse gastronomic heritage.
The Restaurant & Bar, with its magnificent terrace overlooking the rice fields and volcanic horizons, serves a fusion of Indonesian and international dishes, promising a journey through local flavours and beyond.
The Makan Malam degustation menu is a nightly homage to Java’s seasonal fare, while the terrace and rotunda offer immersive dining experiences that blend tradition with innovation.
Amanjiwo not only dazzles with its luxurious facilities but also entices with its bespoke cultural excursions and activities, such as jemparingan archery – an ancient Indonesian practice taught by an expert on the hotel’s grounds.
The expansive swimming pool offers a sanctuary of relaxation, while the resort’s tailored experiences transport guests into the heart of Javanese tradition.
Embark on a spiritual ascent to Borobudur, delve into the craft of batik, or wander through villages on a guided tour that reveals the daily rhythms of vibrant community life.
Each excursion is a thread woven into the rich tapestry of local heritage, offering an insightful glimpse into the soul of Central Java.
To stay at Amanjiwo is to experience the essence of Central Java in unparalleled luxury.
The resort is not just a place to sleep, but a destination that enriches one’s understanding of Javanese culture and history.
It’s a retreat for those seeking peace, an inspiration for the artistically inclined (with a painting set included in each room) and a true sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle.
Amidst the beautiful backdrop of Borobudur, Amanjiwo stands as a bastion of cultural preservation and luxurious escape, inviting guests to step into a world where ancient tradition and modern comfort converge.
Dinner at Amanjiwo – served in the hotel’s main rotunda restaurant, on its outdoor terrace or to your suite – is an invitation to a feast where history, culture, and culinary excellence combine.
As the day comes to a close and darkness falls over the nearby Borobudur temple, the dining scene comes alive with an array of dishes that tantalise the taste buds and warm the soul.
The best place to eat is on the terrace just off the colonnaded lobby, looking out over volcano-fringed forests and a layered landscape that turns into a lush tapestry as the night draws in.
Although there is an extensive 11-page menu – available all day and through the night – featuring Western and Asian dishes, the Indonesian selection is the true star of the show.
The country’s cuisine celebrates the contrast of flavours – sweet, salty, sour, and spicy – often in a single dish that’s complex yet satisfying.
The tastes are distinctive, from a palette of ingredients that is as broad as the country’s geography.
Spices like coriander, cumin, and turmeric were brought over by Indian traders, while cloves and nutmeg are native to the Spice Islands – a culinary identity that’s both local and global.
Herbs such as lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves add aromatic highs, while chili adds a fiery intensity that can be tailored to individual thresholds.
Adding even more or a unique spin, each island, each province, and often each city has its own signature dishes and local twists.
At Amanjiwo, the colourful Indonesian fried rice dish of Nasi Goreng – a national favourite – is subtly infused with a blend of aromatic spices, delivering a warm, piquant flavour that is invigorating and soothing at the same time.
Succulent pieces of chicken, marinated in traditional Javanese spices, add a savoury depth to the dish, with crisp slivers of bell peppers, diced tomatoes, and onion tossed into the mix, each adding its own burst of flavor and a crunchy texture that balances the softness of the rice.
At the heart of the Nasi Goreng is the telur ceplok, a sunny-side-up egg, which crowns the dish with its rich, runny yolk, offering a creamy richness that seeps into the rice.
Another must-order is the sate, which sees skewered morsels of meat infused with the smoky aromas of coconut husk embers, accompanied by a peanut sauce that’s both earthy and elevating.
For vegetarians and more adventurous eaters, the Tempe Orek, textured with the nuttiness of tempe and caramel notes of palm sugar, is marinated in the enriching aromas of salam leaf and galangal
It’s a dish that’s both humble and complex, perfectly showcasing the multifaceted nature of Indonesian cuisine.
For dessert, opt for the Bubur Sumsum, a comforting rice pudding that envelops the palate in warmth.
Its sweetness, offset by the subtle tartness of jackfruit jam, is a fitting endnote to dinner, a reminder of the simple joys that define Indonesian dessert traditions.
Complementing these flavours are the Lounge Bar’s crafted cocktails, where the Lavender Martini and Jiwo Mule stand out for their use of local ingredients that pay homage to the region’s lush landscapes.
Children are well catered for too, with smaller versions of the Nasi Goreng, Chicken Satay and other Indonesian dishes like Soto Ayam (a rice noodle soup with shredded chicken and steamed rice).
For fussier eaters, familiar options like spaghetti with tomato sauce or grilled cheese sandwiches are an easy pick.
Dining here brings a rich range of flavours to the table, from starters to the national favourites like the Nasi Goreng, and right through to hearty desserts.
It’s a meal that offers a genuine connection to Indonesian culture, served up in an atmosphere that’s as down-to-earth as the dishes themselves.
From the moment you step into Amanjiwo’s Borobudur Suite, it’s clear that a stay here is an immersive cultural experience wrapped in luxury.
The room, a generous 243 square meters of Javanese-inspired design, promises more than just accommodation – it offers a window into the soul of Central Java.
The suite’s private walled garden is a sanctuary where guests can indulge in unobstructed views of the mystical Borobudur temple and the lush valley stretching into the horizon – as well as the hotel’s gorgeous swimming pool in the grounds.
The outdoor space, complete with a comfortable daybed, allows for intimate dining or lounging, where you can relax in seclusion while still taking in the expansive natural surrounds.
Beneath a traditional Indonesian thatched-roof pavilion, the suite’s interior is equally captivating.
The room is anchored by a majestic four-pillar king-size bed on a raised platform, offering a sleep experience akin to royalty.
The artful blend of rich terrazzo flooring and subtle decor pays homage to the local architecture, resonating with the suite’s integration into the landscape.
The bathroom experience is one to remember with its twin vanities and the pièce de résistance – a sunken outdoor bathtub for a soak under the stars.
The separate dressing area, shower, and toilet (Japanese-style with an automated seat that not only warms up, but lifts automatically) all maintain the highest standards of luxury.
Inclusive amenities such as round-trip transfers from Yogyakarta International Airport an hour and a half away, daily afternoon tea, and scheduled cultural lectures add further value, making a stay at the Borobudur Suite a blend of cultural enrichment and indulgent relaxation.
But perhaps what sets this room apart is its commitment to delivering a unique Javanese experience.
The daily a la carte breakfast and shuttle service around the Borobudur area encourage exploration, while the suite itself is a tranquil retreat to return to.
It offers Wi-Fi, a Beoplay-M5 sound system, and a personal bar – complete with constantly restocked homemade cookies and cassava chips – among its thoughtful amenities.
Eery detail in the suite is curated to enhance the experience. The living area, equipped with a writing desk and dining area, becomes a personal enclave where you can use the painting set to while away the afternoon or enjoy a meal with the valley as a backdrop.
The sounds of nature permeate through the open-air design, allowing for a symphony of birds at dawn and a chorus of crickets at dusk – as well as the occasional echoes of the call to prayer from nearby mosques.
Each morning, rays of light gently seep through the suite’s pathways and across the fine Javanese artworks that adorn the walls.
The suite’s architecture, with its sweeping lines and open spaces, echoes the stupas of the Borobudur temple itself, paying homage to its architectural grandeur and spiritual significance.
Finish the day in the Borobudur Suite, lying in the canopied bed and surrounded by the subtle scents of tropical flora from the private garden – taking in a profound appreciation for the timelessness of this place.
Here, Amanjiwo has distilled the essence of Java into a microcosm of luxury and tranquility – all from the comfort of an exquisitely canopied king-size bed.
Halfway through a jemperingan lesson in the grounds of Central Java’s Amanjiwo, a peculiar thought crosses my mind: is my instructor actually any good?
Every arrow I release veers off course, missing the target – an alarmingly thin slice of faraway wood suspended from a rope – and, curiously enough, my teacher Kris’s arrows follow suit.
Jemparingan, Indonesia’s ancient version of archery, is traditionally performed seated with a horizontal bow rather than standing, adding a layer of complexity to an already challenging discipline.
Doubtful of my instructor’s aim, I request a demonstration of a perfect shot.
Kris’s response is swift and decisive – an arrow flies from his bow in a smooth trajectory across the tennis court, piercing the red tip of the wood, which symbolises the enemy’s head, scoring the coveted three points.
Kris, it turns out, is a virtuoso of the sport, hailing from a lineage of jemparingan masters who once tutored the royal family.
He continues this legacy, imparting his knowledge of the ancient tradition, a legacy that his three children, all accomplished archers, are set to inherit.
The mystery of his earlier misses unfolds when Kris shares the philosophy behind jemparingan.
“Jemparingan is not about winning,” he says, “It’s about teaching respect and responsibility.”
In the spirit of jemparingan, when your adversary is faltering – as I decidedly was – tradition dictates to intentionally aim for lesser targets to balance the scales of competition.
It’s an exercise in humility and camaraderie, hitting the main body or the low-scoring hanging ball that – whimsically – represents the enemy’s rear.
Every accurate shot is honored not just with a score, but also with the resonant sound of a gong, accompanied by Kris’s broad, sincere smile.
His delight in sharing the heritage of his homeland with visitors from across the globe is as clear as the morning sky.
The history of jemparingan – which means ‘dart’ – is rich and multifaceted, dating back to an era when precision with a bow and arrow was a necessary skill for warriors.
Over centuries, it evolved from a martial practice to a cultural one, symbolizing not just physical dexterity but also mental discipline.
Today, jemparingan is a recreational pursuit, and at Amanjiwo, it’s one infused with luxurious amenities.
Between rounds, guests are pampered with cold towels, chilled water, and fresh coconuts, all provided by the attentive hotel staff who are ever-present to meet every need.
They double as translators, too, bridging the gap when Kris, fluent in English but occasionally switching to local dialect for intricate historical explanations, delves into the deeper aspects of the sport.
In the shadow of Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple, jemparingan at Amanjiwo is a true cultural immersion and a testament to the enduring spirit of its practicioners.
It’s here, among whispers of ancient Java, that guests not only learn to aim with a bow but also to align with a philosophy that has steadied and guided generations – respect, humility, and responsibility.
The ancient temple of Borobudur in Central Java is one of Indonesia’s must-visit cultural sites – a spiritual and architectural marvel that has drawn millions of visitors from around the world.
As well as tourists and pilgrims from across the globe, dignitaries ranging from the Obama family to the Emperor of Japan have wandered its vast corridors, absorbed in the study of its thousands of traditional carvings – each one completely unique.
In a commendable effort to preserve this sacred site, the Indonesian government has recently instituted strict caps on the number of daily visitors.
The initiative has been a blessing in disguise, as the usual crowds that once squeezed through its corridors have given way to a serene atmosphere, allowing the temple to radiate its intended religious splendour once again.
Borobudur’s design reflects the Gupta architecture of India, yet it remains uniquely Javanese, with over 500 Buddha statues and more than 2,672 relief panels that offer an illustrative narrative of the religion’s teachings and tales.
Just a stone’s throw away from this UNESCO World Heritage site is the ultra-luxurious retreat of Amanjiwo – the hotel itself based on the temple’s architecture.
Set amidst the natural beauty of the area, Amanjiwo is not only an oasis of comfort but also a gateway to the cultural and spiritual landscape of Java, offering exclusive and private tours of Borobudur.
These are part of a broader array of excursions that include everything from spiritual wellness journeys to helicopter tours, mountain treks, and more.
Visiting the temple is an experience that should top the list of any guest at Amanjiwo, along with on-resort activities like enjoying the hotel’s stunning swimming pool and taking afternoon tea on its terrace.
The hotel’s expert team ensures that the excursion to Borobudur is seamless, starting with a chauffeured ride from the lobby, complete with snacks and chilled water, to the Manohara Hotel on the temple’s periphery.
Here, in the shadow of the temple, guests exchange their footwear for slippers before being led through a private entrance, away from the main influx of tourists.
The guides, intimately familiar with Borobudur and its significance, are not just experts on its history but are also deeply committed to its preservation.
They offer insights into the temple’s rich past while ensuring that visitors respect its sanctity.
Their local knowledge also means that visitors are privy to the most picturesque spots to capture the temple’s essence, often finding secluded nooks to appreciate its beauty undisturbed.
Borobudur itself is a majestic structure that bears witness to Indonesia’s historical depth and religious diversity.
Its compelling history spans over a millennium, with the temple enduring through periods of volcanic activity, abandonment, and multiple restorations, each layer adding to its mystique.
With Amanjiwo’s expert guides, a visit to Borobudur becomes something of a personal pilgrimage that honours the temple’s storied past and its ongoing preservation.
Walking its paths at dawn or dusk offers a profound sense of connection to those who once roamed here and to the natural splendour of the area.
It’s in these quiet moments that you can truly feel the spiritual pulse of Borobudur and the enduring soul of Java.
Luxury travel is all about personalised and unique experiences. Picture 10 opulent beachfront resorts within the same stretch, all with the same views.
What distinguishes one from the rest are the subtle gestures – a bartender recalling your favourite cocktail, staff acknowledging your repeated visits with genuine warmth, or the surprise of a personal turndown gift.
Aman resorts elevates this bespoke approach with knack for crafting unique encounters for guests that are typically beyond the reach of the ordinary traveler.
From private moonlit dinners on secluded beaches to bespoke cultural immersions, the ultra-premium hotel brand curates experiences for guests at its diverse collection of properties that span from the serene coasts of Thailand to the rugged beauty of the Utah desert.
At the heart of Central Java – a short flight from Bali or the Indonesian capital of Jakarta – lies Amanjiwo, in the shadows of the UNESCO-listed Borobudur Temple and surrounded by lush vegetation.
Here, guests are invited to greet the dawn along the nearby Progo River – an experience emblematic of Aman’s promise to not just visit, but to connect deeply with the soul of a place.
Following a brief journey in the comfort of the hotel’s car and a leisurely stroll through a small forest, a secluded picnic enclave appears amidst a break in the trees.
Awaiting guests is a breakfast that combines traditional Indonesian fare with Western culinary classics, with an array of freshly squeezed juices and morning baked goods.
Presented in an elegant picnic hamper, the assortment invites guests to indulge in a sumptuous selection that spans from the iconic nasi goreng to the refined flavours of bagels with capers, cream cheese, and lox.
The presentation is impressive, with plush cushions and an inviting low footstool chair thoughtfully positioned to provide an unobstructed view of the tranquil river.
As the gentle currents murmur past, visitors are afforded the luxury of unwinding in the invigorating air, or perhaps capturing the stunning panorama with the thoughtfully provided painting set.
Beneath the idyllic surface of the river, local life unfolds, with residents engaging in traditional fishing and washing their clothes in the stream.
Best of all, there is no rush. Your personal driver and butler wait discreetly among the foliage, ready to replenish your cup with coffee or to take you back to the haven that is Amanjiwo.
On the way out, we encounter a local woman whose warm smile radiates a welcome to Borobudur.
Given that most of the hotel’s staff are from the surrounding areas, and many have been with the property since it first opened in 1997, the hospitality encountered here is naturally heartfelt and genuine.
While staying at Amanjiwo, a breakfast picnic alongside the meandering waters of the River Progo is a unique cultural experience not to be missed – and one that stands as a testament to the region’s enchanting spirit.
At Amanjiwo, the ultra-luxury hotel in Central Java overlooking the Unesco World Heritage Site of Borobudur, daily afternoon tea infuses a decidedly British tradition with Indonesian flavours.
Showcasing local cuisine, aromatic spices, and a selection of exquisite cakes that entice guests to explore the island’s culture, this is a must-do experience for guests at the resort.
In its sweet cuisine, Indonesia uses a unique palette of flavours, ranging from coconut to fragrant pandan and the rich, molasses-like sweetness of palm sugar.
There’s no better place to sample them than on Amanjiwo’s elevated terrace, looking out over lush forests and the stone stupas of Borobudur temple on one side, and the majestic silhouette of volcanic mountains fringed by palm trees on the other.
Designed by the legendary architect Ed Tuttle with reverence for the local culture, the hotel’s coral limestone facade draws inspiration from the architecture of nearby Borobudur, the largest Buddhist temple in the world.
Afternoon tea can also be enjoyed in the comfort of guests’ own suites, or by the swimming pool terrace. In the rainy season, there’s an option to sit under Amanjiwo’s main dome, where the resonant melody of traditional music accompanies the gentle sound of rainfall.
Afternoon tea is complimentary for all guests once every day, and can be taken between 3 and 5pm, although the staff will generously forgive you if you’re a little bit late.
During our visit, the selection is served by Matias, the hotel’s Swiss-Malaysian food and beverage intern, who explains that the majority of staff are from local villages – and many have been around since the property opened in 1997.
The crockery, including a beautiful teapot crafted by local potters in a traditional Javanese designs, is sourced from artisans a stone’s throw from the hotel.
Each of the simple cakes presented is a different flavour, and each a masterpiece. Although the selection is small, refills are not only available but readily encouraged.
Among the delicacies, you’ll find the soft, aromatic pandan cake with its crown of coconut, a rich, moist rice flour cake that surprises with an inner layer of sweet coconut shavings, and a pink rice flour cake, delightfully gelatinous, served in a comforting bowl of milk sweetened with a swirl of brown sugar.
The tea is a punchy blend mixing the warmth of star anise, the spice of ginger, the citrusy note of lemongrass, the sweetness of nutmeg, and a hint of local basil, rounding out an infusion that complements the cakes and the scenic backdrop alike.
As the afternoon tea experience draws to a close and the sun dips lower in the sky, the horizon turns into a breathtaking scene as clouds roll in and the surrounding mountains and forests transform into a living tapestry.
It’s then that the beautiful echoes of the call to prayer from nearby mosques begin to resonate across the landscape.
With a final serving of cake and tea, the sky now turned to darkness, the day at Amanjiwo draws to a close.
In the heart of Central Java, in a UNESCO-protected region resplendent with cultural richness and home to Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple, lies Amanjiwo and its pool.
This ultra-luxury Indonesian resort – which focuses on careful minimalism in its decor and service – offers a refuge that stands apart from ordinary hotel experiences through a promise of soulful serenity.
A sanctuary within a sanctuary, the property’s 40-metre freshwater swimming pool is a space that redefines the essence of calm and thoughtful reflection.
Elegant suites with thatched roof pavilions pave the path through lush jungle surroundings to the pool area, which is gracefully tucked behind embracing walls ensuring privacy and peace.
Guests, present in the moment, can be found absorbed in books or gliding through the serene emerald-hued waters.
The only interruptions are the gentle sounds of nature – the occasional bird swooping down to grace the water’s surface.
From the adjacent terrace, there’s a soft clinking of cutlery from afternoon teas, breakfasts, and lunches served under an exquisite pillared pavilion.
Every corner of the space shows meticulous attention to detail, and a careful cultivation of cultural and natural elegance.
Native trees and curated topiaries frame the sky, while the call to prayer from a nearby mosque fills the air every few hours, hinting at the deep spiritual roots of the local culture.
Amanjiwo’s staff move almost invisibly, tending to guests’ needs with a quiet efficiency – an extra towel, a refill of iced water, the careful hanging of a swimmer’s clothes as they take a dip.
Beside this serene space is the Pool Club, a casual dining venue overlooking the infinity’s edge, emanating the delightful scents of Indonesian and international cuisines.
Here, culinary craftsmanship blends with the verdant hues of lush rice paddies and the distant silhouettes of banyan trees.
As day moves to night, the pool area undergoes a subtle – and magical – transformation.
Atmospheric lighting softly unveils the night’s beauty, with stars vividly sparkling as the surrounding landscapes subtly emerge.
The pool remains an inviting space open for guests 24 hours a day, ensuring a personal retreat within Java’s natural embrace is ever-present.
At Amanjiwo, and particularly the resort’s exquisite pool area, time seems to dissolve, making room for the soul to breathe and bask in luxurious simplicity.
