Cities to Tropics: Kyoto to Bali

Route
JAPAN • CHINA • PHILIPPINES • BALI
Dec 7–19, 2025
13 Days, 12 Nights
Per Person
Amans
Aman Kyoto, Japan
Amanyangyun, China
Amanpulo, Philippines
Amandari, Bali

Embark on an exclusive Aman Jet Expedition from the cultural heart of Japan to the tropical paradise of Bali. This 12-night journey through Kyoto, Shanghai, the private Philippine island of Palawan, and Bali's verdant Ubud features stays at four of the finest Aman sanctuaries.  

Our jet is a luxurious custom-outfitted Airbus ACJ 319 (or similar), modified to feature 19 seats instead of the standard 130, and is one of the finest ultra-long-range private aircraft available. The interior is configured in a spacious lounge design—there are two large cabins—creating a relaxed, comfortable, and social atmosphere that is quite unlike commercial jets.

DESIGNED FOR PEOPLE WHO DON'T DO GROUP TRAVEL

Each journey accommodates a maximum of 16-18 guests, ensuring ample space and an exceptionally comfortable in-flight experience, where you want to relax with a book or enjoy a cocktail with new friends. So, while expeditions involve a fun social group atmosphere, they retain the benefits of private travel. With this hybrid model, we describe the Aman Jet Expeditions as being designed for people who do not usually do group travel. 

  • Fitted with 19 seats 
  • Two pilots, two flight attendants, one chef & one engineer
  • Two lounges
  • Three restrooms

AIRBUS ACJ 319 OR SIMILAR 

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Set in a secret garden at the heart of a 32-hectare forest, Aman Kyoto lies at the foot of Mount Hidari Daimonji, a stone’s throw from Kyoto’s golden Kinkaku-ji Temple and 16 other UNESCO World Heritage Sites. A tranquil Aman Spa offers onsen, while serene restaurants overlook this verdant world apart. Spacious and light-filled, the resort’s 26 latticed rooms pay contemporary homage to the traditional Japanese ryokan inn, each framing spectacular natural surroundings.

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Amanyangyun in Shanghai blends ancient Chinese traditions with modern luxury, featuring refurbished villas amidst camphor trees relocated from Fuzhou. The resort offers a harmonious experience with suites, pavilions, and lush gardens, complemented by diverse dining options and wellness facilities rooted in Chinese healing traditions. Guests can immerse themselves in cultural activities and enjoy the rich history of the relocated Camphor Forest.

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Set on its own private island in the Sulu Sea, Amanpulo is the quintessential tropical paradise. On arrival at this whisper-quiet retreat guests are greeted by cerulean skies and turquoise waters. Amanpulo offers an abundance of aquatic activities, including sailing, scuba diving and windsurfing, as well as beautiful stretches of deserted beach. On land, white sand beaches harbor deserted coves fringed by jungle and fit for exploration.

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Idyllic Amandari in central Bali offers a luxurious 30-suite retreat designed like a traditional Balinese village, featuring private gardens, outdoor baths, and a restaurant with views of the Ayung River Gorge and emerald terraced rice fields. Amenities include a pool, fitness center, yoga, tennis courts, and a spa. Located 45 minutes from Denpasar Airport, it boasts stunning views, authentic design, and exceptional service.

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Zen Meditation

Learn the proper breathing techniques and practices of Zen meditation, or zazen, under the tutelage of a Buddhist monk. The primary Buddhist religious practice, meditation is done while sitting and is meant to suspend judgemental thoughts with the aim of attaining enlightenment. In Kyoto, the Rinzai school is the dominant sect of Zen Buddhism.

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Private Geisha Evening

Be entertained by the graceful performances of a three-person troupe, typically comprising a geisha, a maiko and a jikata (shamisen player). Geisha are known for their wit, beauty and encyclopedic knowledge of traditional arts. They entertain their guests with traditional dances, jovial sake drinking games and lighthearted conversation. Traditionally, one is unable to enter the establishment unless referred by an existing patron.

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A Time-Honored Tradition

Embrace 1,000 years of Japanese tradition with a special tea ceremony, known as Chanoyu. The ceremony is a choreographed ritual of preparing and serving Japanese matcha green tea; traditional sweets are also served to balance the tea’s bitter taste. With roots in Buddhist traditions, Chanoyu is seen as a spiritual experience that embodies harmony, respect, purity and tranquility.

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Lessons in Learning

Connect with ancient Chinese arts while staying in Shanghai. Participate in the calming incense ceremony to balance the mind, explore the basics of the guqin, the scholar’s cherished zither, and refine your skills in Chinese calligraphy and brush painting, gaining profound insight into ancient Chinese philosophies and aesthetics.

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Stories in Stone: Shanghai’s Historical Evolution

Enjoy a lively guided walking tour of the Bund with an expert in Shanghainese history, exploring Shanghai’s rich architectural history, from classical Chinese designs to Sino-European facades to Art Deco and modern skyscrapers. As you stroll, your expert guide will share captivating stories of the city's evolution, offering insights into its past and present through its diverse architectural landscape.

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Ten Scenes of West Lake

Embark on a day trip to Hangzhou by high-speed train. Cruise the resplendent UNESCO-listed West Lake, admiring its famed Ten Scenes, then venture to Longjing to hike the Dragon Well tea trails. Immerse yourself in Hangzhou’s rich tea culture and, if time allows, wander the tranquil forest paths near Fayun Village.

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Stargazing in the Philippines' Archipelago

Watch the perfect uninterrupted expanse of the starlit sky over Amanpulo, on the remote island of Pamalican in the Palawan archipelago. An expert guide will orient you as you peer through a Dobsonian telescope to see different constellations. 

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Meet the Mature Marine Life of the Philippines

Explore the clear tropical waters off the coast of Pamilican island, home to a diverse ecosystem of marine life including parrot fish, coral fish, and rays. Perhaps the most important denizens of the reef opposite Amanulo’s Beach Club are the venerable hawksbill and green sea turtles, whom you can meet while snorkeling. 

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Blessings Amidst Emerald Rice Terraces

Journey to Tegalalang Village, renowned for its stunning rice terraces and vibrant artist community. Walk through lush green rice paddies, engage with local farmers, and explore artist workshops before visiting the revered Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple for a private blessing and purification ceremony. Bathing in the Holy Spring waters as a Hindu priest offers personal guidance for a deeply spiritual experience.

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The Traditional Healing of Bali

Immerse yourself in Balinese traditional healing during a session with four distinct healers. Begin with a soothing foot massage, followed by an aura and energy reading, a palm reading, and conclude with a calming sound meditation. Speak with the healers to address personal concerns, gaining insight into Balinese holistic practices and leaving with a renewed sense of well-being.

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Helicopter over Batur Mountain

Soar above Bali’s stunning landscapes on a thrilling 30-minute helicopter journey. Glide over the majestic Batur Mountain, the lush rice terraces of Tegalalang, and the winding Ayung River, capturing the island's most breathtaking views in one unforgettable adventure.

Day 1–4

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Kyoto Aman Kyoto

Begin your journey in the serene city of Kyoto, where you will stay at the elegant Aman Kyoto. Nestled in a hidden garden, this tranquil retreat offers a perfect balance between luxury and tradition. Explore Kyoto’s rich cultural tapestry with visits to the Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, and the Golden Pavilion, a stunning Zen temple covered in gold leaf. Dive into history at Nijo Castle, a former shogunate residence, and experience the peaceful ambiance of the Philosopher’s Walk. Engage in traditional Japanese experiences such as a tea ceremony and Zen meditation. In the evenings, enjoy exquisite Kyoto cuisine and be captivated by private geisha performances, immersing you in the city’s ancient customs.

Day 4–7

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Shanghai Amanyangyun

Fly to the bustling metropolis of Shanghai, where you will reside at Amanyangyun, an oasis of calm amidst the urban sprawl. Discover the city’s historical and modern contrasts with a private tour of the Yu Gardens, a classical Chinese garden, and the vibrant French Concession, known for its tree-lined avenues and colonial architecture. Visit the Propaganda Poster Art Centre to gain insight into China’s revolutionary past. Stroll along the Bund with a historian, providing context to the city's transformation, and enjoy an exhilarating acrobatics show. Dining options include the city's finest restaurants, blending traditional Shanghainese flavors with contemporary flair.

Day 7–10

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Palawan Amanpulo

Escape to the secluded paradise of Amanpulo on the pristine island of Palawan. Surrounded by azure waters and lush landscapes, Amanpulo offers the perfect retreat for relaxation and adventure. Engage in water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing, or simply unwind on the white sandy beaches. Participate in a guided nature walk to explore the island’s rich biodiversity and rejuvenate with a complimentary spa treatment. Evenings are reserved for stargazing and dining under the stars, embracing the natural beauty of this tropical haven.

Day 10–13

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Ubud Amandari

Conclude your expedition in Ubud, Bali’s cultural heart, at the serene Amandari. Experience the spiritual essence of Bali with visits to the Sacred Monkey Forest and Taman Ayun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a helicopter tour over Mount Batur for breathtaking views and partake in traditional Balinese healing sessions, enhancing your well-being. Immerse yourself in local culture with a private tour of Ubud’s art villages and markets. Your journey ends with a farewell dinner featuring a traditional Balinese performance, offering a memorable finale to this extraordinary adventure.

Japan · Vietnam · Thailand · Sri Lanka · India · Uzbekistan · Greece
Aman Jet Expeditions 2025

The Grandest Tour 2025

At a Glance

The Grandest Tour returns in 2025 offering guests seven Aman sanctuaries in seven different countries, in just one journey by private jet. 

Apr 19–May 9, 2025

21 Days, 20 Nights

Per Person

$188,888

Amans
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  • Amanoi, Vietnam
  • Amanpuri, Thailand
  • Amangalla, Sri Lanka
  • Aman-i-Khas, India
  • Amanbagh, India
  • Amanzoe, Greece
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Nov 2–15, 2025

14 Days, 13 Nights

Per Person

$98,888

Amans
  • Amanoi, Vietnam
  • Amantaka, Laos
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Japan · Philippines · Indonesia · Maldives · UAE · Venice · Morocco
Aman Jet Expeditions 2025

Around the World in Three Continents 2025

At a Glance

Embark on an around-the-world 20-night adventure of dramatic contrast, from the palaces and temples of imperial Kyoto to the souks and medina of imperial Marrakech. 

Sep 7–27, 2025

21 Days, 20 Nights

Per Person

$198,888

Amans
  • Aman Kyoto, Japan
  • Amanpulo, Philippines
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Peter, Florida

This trip is very interesting because you're traveling with a group of people, but you're also traveling with yourself and your spouse or your significant other. So you have an ability to be together as a group and also to do things with your significant other. I thought that was a fantastic way to run this trip.

Aman Jet Expedition

Japan, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Bhutan, India

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Kathleen, Connecticut

I'd say it has met or exceeded all my expectations. Everything is as beautiful as I expected it would be, but there was a lot more maneuverability on the ground as far as spontaneity.

Aman Jet Expedition

Japan, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Bhutan, India

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Stephanie, California

The one thing that sets it apart is having the private driver and guide. And the reason why it's so special is we're not shoved on a bus to all do one thing. You're able to get off and do your thing and it makes it more of a personalized feeling.

Aman Jet Expedition

Japan, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Bhutan, India

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Randy & Marina, New Jersey

We would love to share our Aman Jet Expeditions experience with the whole world! We loved it so much! See you sooner than later!

Aman Jet Expedition

Greece, Indonesia, Japan, Maldives, Turkey