Machiyas have existed in Kyoto since the eighth century and have even survived the Second World War. Although no new machiyas were built after the traditional method of construction was prohibited for safety reasons in the Building Standard Act of 1950, many of the old machiyas were restored and preserved. Aoshida Machiya House is one such traditional machiya, carefully restored by the Machiya Residence Inn company. The company started its journey in 2010 and has since renovated and preserved many machiyas across Kyoto, Takayama City, and Kanazawa. While the new renovations have introduced modern enhancements, the properties still stay true to their heritage by showcasing traditional features.
Design and Architecture
Aoshida Machiya House's unique architecture and design present a beautiful blend of tradition and modernity. Its facade stands out among the other machiyas in the lane with a sleeker and more sophisticated look. Most of the original woodwork has been preserved, and you can still find old wooden beams in the otherwise modern bedrooms. Both light and dark wood have been used for the furnishings. The rooms boast high ceilings to create a spacious and airy feel. The cozy area with the double bed even comes with a skylight from which you can stargaze at night.
Garden
Non-smoking rooms
Internet services
WiFi
Free WiFi
General
Heating
Non-smoking throughout
Air conditioning
Services
Luggage storage
Safety & security
Key access
Smoke alarms
Fire extinguishers
Food & drink safety
Breakfast takeaway containers
Safety features
First aid kit available
Physical distancing
Contactless check-in/check-out
Cashless payment available
Physical distancing rules followed
Reception services
Invoice provided
Take a look at these facilities:
Garden
Access
Non-smoking rooms
Internet
Internet services
WiFi
Free WiFi
General
Heating
Non-smoking throughout
Air conditioning
Services
Luggage storage
Safety & security
Key access
Smoke alarms
Fire extinguishers
Food & drink safety
Breakfast takeaway containers
Safety features
First aid kit available
Physical distancing
Contactless check-in/check-out
Cashless payment available
Physical distancing rules followed
Reception services
Invoice provided
Aoshida Machiya House does not offer an on-site restaurant, but you can prepare your meals in the modern kitchen equipped with all the essential cookware and cutlery. The kitchen includes an induction stovetop, toaster, and rice cooker that you can use for daily cooking. There's a dining area with a TV for sharing homemade meals. You can also enjoy warm cups of the original Machiya Coffee or black and green tea.
The staff at Machiya Residence Inn are available on the phone between 10 pm and 7 pm, so you can get restaurant recommendations from them as well. Try nearby eateries such as Shiden Cafe, only a seven-minute walk away, if you want to take a break from cooking.
Cultural Experiences
Aoshida Machiya House is an ideal base for exploring Kyoto's cultural attractions. It's a quick walk from Nishi Honganji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can have a spiritual break. Another interesting place to check out is the Costume Museum, especially if you want an insight into Kyoto's traditional lifestyle. The machiya is also close to cultural and historical attractions such as the Kyoto Railway Museum and the Kyoto Seishu Netsuke Art Museum. You can walk to explore these places or hop on a train or metro, as both transport lines are close by.
Buddhist temple with Momoyama- and Edo-period architecture, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (8-minute walk)
Aquarium for all ages, boasting native fish and dolphin performances (8-minute walk)
UNESCO-listed temple featuring the country's tallest pagoda (16-minute walk)
The nearest airport to Aoshida Machiya House is Osaka Itami Airport, about 50 minutes away by car.
The nearest railway station to the machiya is Umekōji-Kyōtonishi Station, only a 10-minute walk away.