Machiyas, or traditional Japanese townhouses, have been in existence since the Heian Period (794 - 1185). During the Edo Period (1603 - 1868), machiyas became very popular among merchants and artisans. They not only stayed in these houses but also used the front parts as shops. The popularity of machiyas took a hit after the Japanese Building Standards Act was passed in 1950. This prohibited the construction of new machiyas as the construction methods were considered unsafe.

While many machiyas fell into disrepair, some were renovated and transformed into guest houses by companies such as Machiya Residence Inn. The latter started operation in 2010 and has already restored over 80 properties. Fujinoma Machiya House is one of these old properties restored by the company. Its traditional aspects have been carefully preserved, while modern enhancements have been added. You can find many such machiyas in Kyoto, including Azuki-an Machiya House.

Design and Architecture

Fujinoma Machiya House welcomes guests with a charming exterior featuring the quintessential wooden koshi (latticework). Inside, the machiya is adorned with motifs highlighting the nihon buyo dance form of Japan. This is a homage to the house's previous owner, Fujima Kannsei, a renowned nihon buyo dancer. Aside from the lovely art, there's a beautiful wooden verandah where you can sit and admire the tsuboniwa (small inner garden). The Western-style bedroom features a circular window, common in Japanese tearooms. It also has pretty shoji (paper) lanterns. Meanwhile, the Japanese-style room comes with tatami flooring and shoji screen windows.

Guests at Fujinoma Machiya House get to start their day right with a wholesome breakfast, courtesy of Machiya Residence Inn. You'll receive the Western-style MACHIYA Breakfast BENTO Box every morning if you add it to your booking. The box contains locally made items such as croissants, homemade granola, Kyoto-made fruit or vegetable juice, Kyoto-made yogurt, ham, cheese, and jam. You'll also get some delicious soup of the day. The best part is that some items come wrapped in traditional furoshiki cloth, which you can take home! Make sure to book breakfast at least two days before your stay.

Feel free to use the well-appointed kitchen for other meals of the day. It has an induction stove top, a rice cooker, a toaster, a microwave, and other essentials. You'll also have crockery and cutlery at your disposal. If you're in the mood for a warm beverage, use the black tea, green tea, or original Machiya Coffee provided to brew yourself a cup.

On days you don't feel like cooking, try the restaurants nearby. Visit Ginjo Ramen Kubota for some steaming ramen, or stop by Tsuruyakonana to taste some local dishes. Both restaurants are only three minutes away on foot.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Staying at a machiya is in itself a cultural experience, and Fujinoma Machiya House makes it even more special with its traditional details and nihon-buyo-inspired decor. Once you're done exploring the house, step out to meet the locals and learn about the local culture. Cultural attractions nearby include the Honganji Temples, an 11-minute walk from the property. The Costume Museum, featuring bright and colorful traditional attire, is only three minutes away on foot. You can also take a six-minute drive to visit Kyoto Tower and get on the observation deck to admire the panoramic city views. If you're traveling with kids, Kyoto Aquarium, also a six-minute drive away, is an excellent choice!

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a day trip to the Arashiama Bamboo Grove, around 35 minutes away by car.