8 Machiyas Not To Be Missed When Visiting Kyoto: Get the Traditional Japanese Accommodation Experience!

What is a Machiya?

Machiya are traditional Japanese wooden townhouses that functioned both as a residence, as well as storefronts for merchants and craftsmen. These structures often have narrow facades facing the streets, and with a long structure in the back. They are characterized by their wooden lattices, sliding doors, and a distinct architectural style reflecting traditional Japanese aesthetics and design.

These traditional townhouses can only be designated as machiya if they were built before 1950. Authentic machiya are built with traditional carpentry techniques, using ‘kumki’ methods, where no nails are used in the process. Today, many have been preserved and repurposed as a historic relic of Japan’s historic architecture and lifestyle. They can make fantastic, cost-effective places to stay, especially when visiting Japan with family or a group of friends.

What are Kyo-machiya?

Kyo-machiya refers to Kyoto-style machiya, distinctive architectural gems exclusive to Kyoto. These living artifacts showcase Kyoto’s traditional architectural style, featuring inner gardens or tsuboniwa as a noteworthy hallmark. These courtyards not only provide effective ventilation and abundant natural light but also infuse an urban setting with a natural ambiance, earning Kyo-machiya the reputation of being urban retreats.

8 Machiyas not to be missed when visiting Kyoto

Kyonoyado Gekkoan

Photo: Booking.com

Perfect for: Couples seeking an intimate, tranquil, and authentic machiya experience.

A tranquil Japanese garden, Japanese rooms with tatami flooring, as well as beautiful lotus flower-inspired wallpaper makes up Kyonoyado Gekkoan. You’ll be living it up in this little machiya, where you could sit on the engawa (a covered corridor that runs on the outside perimeter of a building) and admire the private gardens of this machiya. You’ll have the whole property to yourself, just a short walk away from Nijo Castle.

Photo: Booking.com

A traditional breakfast is also available at this property apart from the continental breakfast option. Do yourself a favor and opt in for the traditional breakfast, you won’t regret it.

Languages Supported: English, Japanese

Kamohan

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Perfect for: Couples and groups seeking a picturesque Zen retreat with a captivating view of the Kamo River.

A Kamo River view from the bedroom? It can’t get even better than Kamohan. This machiya, conveniently located in the center of the city and walking distance away from all of the city’s landmarks, is a steal for its restful interior channeling Zen style design with minimalist, earth-toned hues and airy, open spaces.

Photo: Booking.com

There is even a beautiful bathtub right by the private courtyard, where you can look out into the green colors and enjoy a relaxing bath at the end of a day of travel. This stay was designed to be a home, blending the historic with the contemporary for a unique stay that screams Kyoto. Fair warning: you might not be able to leave the house.

Languages Supported: English, Japanese

Gion Shirakawa no Yado by YADORU KYOTO HANARE

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Perfect for: Groups, and families seeking a charming historical retreat in Gion by the canals.

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, right beside Gion, Gion Shirakawa no Yado is a charming two-bedroom home along the river, offering an unbeatable combination of idyllic location and serene Japanese aesthetics. This home provides everything you might need, featuring a comfortable living space and a well-equipped kitchen, ensuring a true home-away-from-home experience in Kyoto.

Photo: Booking.com

Despite its proximity to popular tourist districts, the residence is situated in a peaceful enclave where the tranquil sounds of running water and children playing by the canals accompany your mornings in warmer months. If you’re in search of a cozy base for your Kyoto stay, especially while traveling in a group, this haven is an excellent choice.

Languages Supported: English, Japanese

Kyoto Machiya Fukune

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Perfect for: Small groups and couples wanting to have a taste of old Kyoto with their own hot tub and onsen.

Indulge in understated luxury and the ultimate relaxation with Kyoto Machiya Fukune, a machiya stay that entices you to savor the tranquility indoors. Featuring a private onsen and hot tub, the tatami flooring and serene tan palettes evoke a sense of contentment and calm. A traditional Japanese breakfast awaits, complemented by your own secluded garden for meditation or peaceful moments before a day of exploration.

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Tea enthusiasts will delight in the provided matcha and tea set, with the option to experience a tea ceremony in the privacy of your tatami room within this holiday haven. Designed to immerse guests in the charm of old Kyoto through its quiet alleyways, the machiya stay offers a full concierge service, guiding you to recommended places and assisting with restaurant reservations. Tailored for small groups and couples, Kyoto Machiya Fukune is your perfect retreat into the essence of ancient Kyoto.

Languages Supported: English, Japanese

Yasakahan

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Perfect for: Families and groups looking for a view in a historic location and home.

Situated at the base of Ninenzaka, where historic cobbled slopes ascend to Kiyomizu Temple, Yasakahan offers a delightful retreat just a short stroll from Gion. This three-bedroom machiya ensures privacy and presents a panoramic view of the iconic Hokanji Temple and its soaring 46-meter pagoda from the living room windows, creating a captivating backdrop for groups and families.

Photo: Booking.com

An exceptional feature of this stay is the foot bath nestled within your private Japanese miniature garden—an oasis for cooling off and soothing tired feet after a day of exploration. With a fully equipped kitchen at your disposal, although given its prime location, choosing from the myriad dining options might prove a delightful dilemma. Tasakahan promises an enchanting stay at the heart of Kyoto’s cultural allure.

Languages Supported: English, Japanese

Ayame-an

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Perfect for: Couples and small groups wanting a river view and quiet courtyard.

Ayame-an seamlessly intertwines historic charm with modern comfort. Located just a short stroll from Kiyomizu Gojo subway station and the tranquil Kamo River, this machiya boasts inviting sofas that overlook a petite yet lush Japanese courtyard, providing a perfect spot for relaxation. Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance while enjoying a luxurious bath with a garden view.

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Select from two bedrooms, one furnished with single beds and the other featuring futon beds in a tatami room. Highly acclaimed for its exceptional comfort and thoughtfully crafted interior design, Ayame-an promises a delightful and stylish stay in Kyoto.

Languages Supported: English, Japanese

Kiraku Kyoto Honmachi

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Perfect for: Couples looking for a quiet and harmonious space that merges the modern and traditional.

At Kiraku Kyoto Honmachi, guests are not only treated to the beauty of Japanese gardens outside but also within the confines of this machiya. Designed with tea as its central theme, the interior seamlessly merges modern and traditional elements, creating a harmonious space.

Photo: Booking.com

Tea enthusiasts will delight in the provided matcha and tea set, with the option to experience a tea ceremony in the privacy of your tatami room within this holiday haven. Designed to immerse guests in the charm of old Kyoto through its quiet alleyways, the machiya stay offers a full concierge service, guiding you to recommended places and assisting with restaurant reservations. Tailored for small groups and couples, Kyoto Machiya Fukune is your perfect retreat into the essence of ancient Kyoto.

Languages Supported: English, Japanese

YADORU KYOTO HANARE Washi No Yado

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Perfect for: A traditional machiya perfect for couples wanting to feel like a local.

Indulge in the essence of Kyoto’s heritage at YADORU KYOTO HANARE, a traditional machiya that exudes charm. Immerse yourself in the open sitting area, where a small Japanese garden captivates the senses, and the minimalist design creates an ambiance of serenity. Paying homage to Kyoto’s past, the machiya welcomes you with tatami flooring, spaces thoughtfully designed with zen aesthetics, and a splendid bathtub providing a view of the courtyard.

Photo: Booking.com

Every corner of this machiya is a canvas for a captivating photo shoot, showcasing beautifully executed details that elevate the experience. This haven is not just accommodation; it’s an invitation to harmonize with nature, offering a perfect retreat where past and present seamlessly coexist. Explore the artistry of traditional Kyoto living here.

Languages Supported: English, Japanese

Selection criteria that went into choosing this list

These machiyas were chosen through thorough research as well as reviews and ratings on Booking.com posted by real travelers. Only listings above the 8.0 rating were chosen, and they were selected also based on their location, service, and the amenities provided.

Written by:

Chehui Peh

With over 10 years of experience as a writer and marketer, Chehui writes extensively about travel, lifestyle, and food. Traveling is a part of her lifestyle, and she travels every chance she gets with the goal to explore all corners of Japan, no matter how difficult it is to get to. Graduated with a Masters of Anthropology from Waseda University and worked as a freelance journalist at Shanghai Daily for over 4 years, before branching out to travel journalism and contributing to Travel + Leisure and other renowned platforms. She holds certifications in Japanese Tea Ceremony, and Wine. On Instagram: @chelikestotravel.