Azuki-an Machiya House is a traditional Japanese townhouse that's been renovated and converted into a guest house by Machiya Residence Inn. These townhouses, or machiyas, date back to the Heian Period (794 - 1185) and were most common during the Edo Period (1603 - 1868). Generally, these houses were owned by merchants and artisans who not only stayed here but also used the front part of the house as a shop. The popularity of machiyas declined for multiple reasons, including the emergence of more modern and sturdy properties. In 1950, the Japanese Building Standards Act deemed the old construction methods of machiyas as unsafe, and hence, no new machiyas were built after that.

While machiyas did suffer because of the new act, they were far from going extinct. Many companies, such as Machiya Residence Inn, stepped forward to restore and preserve the old townhouses. Machiya Residence Inn has been operating since 2010 and has restored over 80 machiyas, including heritage properties in Kanazawa. Just like Azuki-an Machiya House, every other property retains its heritage charm despite the renovations.

Design and Architecture

The machiya features the quintessential ichimonji (roof tiles with wave-like pattern) tiles and wooden koshi (latticework) in its exterior. Inside, dark mahogany furniture creates a mix of traditional and sophisticated vibes. You'll also find stained glass from the Taishō period adorning the windows. Both the Western- and Japanese-style bedrooms come with exposed wooden ceilings. The Japanese-style one also features shoji (paper) screens and tatami mats. The custom-made tiled bathtub in the bathroom is ideal for warm baths surrounded by fragrant hinoki wood. There's also a tsuboniwa boasting lush greenery and a tsukubai (stone wash basin).

Azuki-an Machiya House does not feature an on-site restaurant, but it's surrounded by several great dining options. Try some unagi (freshwater eel) at Gion Uokeya U, a three-minute walk from the machiya, or stop by Zen Cafe for a cup of green tea and some dessert, just two minutes away. Do you love ice cream? Then, make sure to visit Gion Kinana for their homemade specialties! The cafe is only a three-minute walk from the machiya.

If you prefer homemade meals, there's provision for that as well! The machiya offers a well-equipped kitchen complete with all the essential cookware, crockery, and cutlery. Modern appliances such as an electric stove and a rice cooker will come in handy if you want to prepare daily meals. You'll also have a supply of green tea, black tea, and original Machiya Coffee to enjoy. You can take your meals in the living room or at the low table in the Japanese-style room.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

You won't have to go far from Azuki-an Machiya House to enjoy cultural attractions. The machiya enjoys an excellent location in central Gion, the most popular geiko-teahouse district of Kyoto. Here, you'll find historic teahouses lining the streets, and you can step into one to enjoy a tea ceremony or a geiko (geisha) performance. Yasaka Shrine, known for hosting the Gion Matsuri festival, is only a 10-minute walk away from the property. If you visit in July, you can catch this vibrant festival and immerse yourself in rich cultural heritage. Shopaholics can visit the Shijo-Kawaramachi shopping street, just eight minutes away on foot. Ponto-cho alley, with its upscale restaurants, is also a short 13-minute walk away.

Nature lovers have plenty of options as well. Kodaiji Park, Maruyama Park, and Rokuhara Park can all be covered within a 20-minute drive.