Resting in the rural heartland of Central Java, Amanjiwo is a discerning portal, proffering numerous paths for cultural and spiritual pursuits: from an island train journey, a personalised tour by car, a leisurely exploration by electric bike, to a private cultural lecturing and wellness ritual. Curated cultural experience at Amanjiwo ensures a warm and reverent spirit that lives with you throughout your stay and often beyond.
Looking at the Aksara Jawa (Javanese script), it’s almost impossible to believe, simply from an aesthetic point of view, that it is highly endangered. Manuscripts and printed documents from the 18th and 19th centuries, both on palm leaves and later on paper, show a flowing line that is both clear and ornate.
Often referred to as Hanacaraka, Aksara Jawa holds a philosophy that can be used for pitutur luhur (verbal wisdom) and guidance to address various phenomena that occur in the future. In a contemporary world where the ubiquity of words seems to be decreasing, learning Aksara Jawa offers a strong and appealing contrast, where writing and the written word are sacred.
Hosted by Indonesia's most renowned chefs, Amanjiwo regularly celebrates Javanese cuisine, food artisans, and local produce, with the Culinary Expedition to Java event series. Over three days, guests are invited to experience exquisite dining sessions and intimate dinners, embark on exciting gastronomic trips and learn about the region’s famed cuisine. On the final evening, the expedition culminates with an exclusive gala dinner against the majestic backdrop of Borobudur Temple.
To honour the rich heritage of Javanese healing traditions and ceremonies, Amanjiwo hosts an annual spiritual wellness immersion called the Celebration of Ancient Wisdom, a three-night self-healing retreat hosted by renowned wellness and cultural practitioners Joko Triagung, Sugeng Karyanto, the resort’s Resident Anthropologist Patrick Vanhoebrouck, and a guest practitioner.
Guests are invited to join the curated journey, immersing themselves in cultural experiences, enjoying fascinating spiritual wellness sessions and inspiring lectures, full moon meditation, personal consultations, blessing and cleansing ceremonies, as well as participating in a Pradakshina ceremony led by a monk in the shadows of Borobudur.
Board the regal Kereta Api Wisata train from the lounge at Jakarta-Pasar Senen Station and embark on a seven-hour journey through spectacular scenery joined by Amanjiwo’s resident anthropologist, Patrick Vanhoebrouck, who will share insights into Javanese culture along the way. With meals on prepared by Aman, the experience begins from the moment guests set foot in their private carriage, and is followed by two nights at Amanjiwo with daily breakfast and activity of choice, be it trekking to Menoreh Hill or sunset martinis overlooking the rice paddies.
From Javanese Meditation and Tolak Balak purification ritual to the morning mystical Ruwatan procession by the river, Amanjiwo offers guests an immersive spiritual wellness experiences that stay true to the authentic culture of Java.