The machiya, while not representative of Japanese high society, remains an ingrained icon of the country's past. These former shophouses are unfortunately a disappearing kind, but recent years have brought about measures to preserve them. Akeiro Machiya is one such machiya that has been reborn in the present, now sporting a stylish modern facade that makes it blend in with neighboring buildings. Inside, however, it has integrated much of its old wooden structure, creating a posh-rustic vibe that makes it unique.

Design and Architecture

Akeiro Machiya is a home full of contrasts. Much of its spaces are in an elegant and eye-catching modern design, making use of the limited space by combining their functionality. The living area, for example, doubles as the dining area with a booth design reminiscent of a restaurant. The bathroom, though very much in a Japanese style, is decorated with tiles instead of wood. Also of note are the colors; around the home you'll notice items and fixtures colored in shades of bengara, a type of deep red-ochre also commonly seen around Kyoto. This also ties in with Kyoto's Miyako Landscape Guidelines which prohibits bright and disruptive colors. While the guidelines mainly apply to exterior fixtures such as signage and facade, it has also shaped interior aesthetics and considered the city's de facto color scheme.

Akeiro Machiya is a self-catering accommodation, meaning guests will have amenities with which they can prepare proper full meals instead of relying on eating out or ordering deliveries. The kitchenette comes equipped with a stovetop and microwave, as well as the necessary cookware. There's also a rice cooker, which of course can also be used for making other types of dishes.

Shopping for ingredients won't be too much of a hassle, as Kyoto's famous Nishiki Market is just a bus ride away. And for days you don't have the energy to cook, there are nearby eateries such as the oden restaurant Yachiyo, and the Shokudo Goldfish Cafe.

Cultural Experiences

Kyoto has so many cultural attractions that one trip might not be enough. To make it easy for yourself, you can start your itinerary with places that are close to Akeiro Machiya. Kiyomizu-dera is one of the most treasured temples not just in Kyoto but in the whole of Japan. It sits along the slopes of Mount Otowa and has a grand terrace with views of the city. Its cultural significance also qualifies it as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto. Another nearby location is Shosei-en, a beautiful garden park that is actually owned and maintained by Higashi Hongan-ji, another of Kyoto's iconic temples.

For shoppers and sightseers, Sannenzaka is a historic neighborhood near Kiyomizu-dera and famous for its well-preserved machiya. Unlike Akeiro, the machiya here all still operate as shophouses, serving delicacies and selling souvenirs. There's also Nishiki Market, which is filled with stalls selling fresh produce and regional delicacies, as well as snack shops and restaurants.

Other Celebrations

Kyoto may have much stricter rules when it comes to holding celebrations in vacation rentals. If you're planning a small party, even a low-key one, be sure to clear it up with the host first. Even if they don't agree to one, they may still be able to help by referring you to nearby establishments that would be willing to provide you with space and personalized service for your birthday or anniversary.