Located in Central Java, Amanjiwo is a luxury resort that overlooks the Unesco World Heritage Site of Borobudur.

Amanjiwo is a luxury Indonesian resort that is located in Central Java’s heartland and overlooks the Unesco World Heritage Site of Borobudur. Named “Peaceful Soul” for its serene setting, which is ideally placed for exploring the region’s historic and natural attractions, the resort cascades from a lofty rotunda down the hillside to a magnificent pool.

Inspired by the 9th-century Buddhist sanctuary of Borobudur, Amanjiwo’s suites include four-pillar king-side beds on raised terrazzo platforms, spacious garden terraces (some with private swimming pools), lounging pavilions, and views of terraced farmland and the Menoreh Hills, or the valley and Borobodur itself.

Spa Profile: Amanpuri Holistic Wellness Centre

The Spa at Amanjiwo is dedicated to holistic wellness and offers a spa menu informed by traditional Javanese healing and beauty rituals passed down through the generations. Spa treatments incorporate Aman’s all-natural skincare range along with local ingredients known for their healing properties. All spiritual wellness sessions at Amanjiwo are inspired by the tranquility of the destination and offer holistic opportunities for one to disconnect, find balance and reconnect.

We interviewed Jann Hess, General Manager, Amanjiwo, who shared insider tips, recommended treatments to try, and more:

With its tranquil ambience and uplifting spirit, Amanjiwo is the ideal setting for relaxation.

Why You’ll Love It: Guests absolutely love the Javanese Pijat ('pijat' means 'massage' in English). This deep tissue massage style removes blockages and releases energy by working deep seated muscles. It is done by local Amanjiwo healers.

Dedicated to holistic wellness, Amanjiwo offers a spa menu informed by traditional Javanese healing and beauty rituals passed down through the generations.

Key Features: Special amenities at the Amanjiwo spa feature a sunken bathtub and outdoor balé for lounging.

The view from one of the open-air relaxation lounges.

Bonus: Jamu, a Javanese traditional herbal elixir, is served to guests before treatments and Rosella tea is served in the suite after treatment.

The resort cascades from a lofty rotunda down the hillside to a magnificent pool.

Insider’s Tip: Amanjiwo offers unique rituals inspired by the spiritual wellness of the old Java, some of these rituals are conducted by Javanese spiritual gurus.

Amanjiwo’s well-respected teachers offer both Hatha and Ashtanga yoga styles for all levels of ability, in both indoor and outdoor settings.

Snacks Served: Before a treatment the spa at Amanjiwo serves Jamu, which is a healthy infusion of Javanese elixir made of basil and local spices from the nearby Menoreh Hill and after a treatment rosella tea is served.

Amanjiwo invites guests to learn and improve their tennis skills at the resort's hard tennis court, located not far from the lobby.

Unique Treatment: The Tolak Balak treatment that comes from traditional Nusantara communities. “Tolak balak” is part of a spiritual rite. “Balak,” known as a destructive force of evil, can be neutralized through this ritual which includes mantras, meditation and jamu (local herbal elixir). During a 90-minute session, which focuses on protection and purification, guests are introduced to a variety of ancient Javanese philosophies and techniques.

Beginning with the recitation of mantras, energy is invoked and the mind is focused. The ritual finishes with a sampling of jamu, the local herbal elixirs made from medicinal plants, offering the guest the chance to reinforce his or her immune system to fight off physiological threats such as disease and pollution. A beautiful insight into local traditions, the Tolak Balak Javanese Cleansing Ritual leaves guests with a sense of purity, lightness and new energy.

Amanjiwo’s architecture is inspired by the 9th-century Buddhist sanctuary of Borobudur.

Insider’s Favorite: The Javanese Pijat, a traditional deep tissue massage style and technique that has been handed down through generations focused on removing blockage and releasing energy, is a much preferred treatment.

The resort is perfectly placed for exploring the region’s historic and natural attractions, or for simply relaxing in blissful surroundings.

Splurge Treatment: A recommended splurge treatment would be the Javanese Royal Ritual. It is a beauty ritual from the Royal Palaces of Central Java, which originated centuries ago as a purifying ritual for Javanese princesses as they prepared for their wedding day.

This royal ritual begins with a relaxing Javanese massage following a lulur (home-made scrub) made from a blend of finely ground rice, white turmeric, milk powder, jasmine and rose. The ritual continues with an application of a milk and clay mask designed to stimulate the cells activity and restore the pH balance of the skin. The final and most wonderful step is to relax in a warm milk bath that has been strewn with fresh jasmine and rose. Skin is left extra soft, supple and shining.