Amanyangyun, the fourth Aman location in China and the first in Shanghai, will open on January 8, 2018, after a 15-year-long relocation of a Jiangxi forest and reconstruction of a historic village.
Fuzhou-born entrepreneur Ma Dadong and Aman had worked together to oversee the transportation and replanting of 10,000 trees – including the 80-tonne Emperor Tree – and the disassembly and rebuilding of 50 antique houses, which were displaced by a new reservoir project in Fuzhou.
On the 10ha Amanyangyun 27km southwest of Shanghai, the 50 disassembled antique houses have been restored into 26 guestrooms, 13 of which are four-bedroom Antique Villas measuring 8002 to 1,000m2, and including a private pool and Jacuzzi as well as a courtyard. Amanyangyun will also offer 24 newly created 65m2 Ming Courtyard Suites, with two private courtyards attached to each.
Aman Residences converted from 12 of the historic homes will also be available.
On the grounds of Amangyangyun is Nan Shu Fang, which also made the journey from Fuzhou, a modern-day recreation of a 17th century scholars’ studio. Guests can use this space to practise traditional crafts such as calligraphy, music and painting, or to watch one of Amanyangyun’s Kunqu Opera performances.
Another highlight is the 2,840m2 Aman Spa – one of the largest in the Aman collection – housing eight treatment rooms, two double spa suites, relaxation areas, a sauna, plunge pool, Jacuzzi and two swimming pools; indoor and out.
The spa building will also house the fitness and movement centre, while the Cultural Discovery Centre will welcome children age five to 12, and have a dedicated programme for teenagers. Programmes include wetland visits, classes on Chinese farming techniques, lantern making, paper cutting, pottery moulding and tea ceremonies, as well as Chinese shadow puppet shows.
The property will offer five restaurants and bars – Chinese restaurant Lazhu pays homage to Jiangxi province; Japanese restaurant Nama; the lakeside Arva for Italian farm-to-table style dishes and sharing plates; The Bar and Cigar Lounge; as well as the 200-seat Banqueting Room.
Other facilities include a 200m2 herb garden and 25-seat cinema.
