Machiyas or traditional Japanese townhouses are the best places to stay in Kyoto if you want to feel like a local. These houses have been around since the Heian period (794–1185). While their construction was stopped after the Building Standards Act was passed in 1950, you can still find the old ones, mostly renovated and restored but featuring original architecture and design. Bonbori-an Machiya House's date of establishment is unknown as its history has been lost to time. It's one of the properties renovated and preserved by Machiya Residence Inn, a company invested in the preservation of age-old machiyas. This means that it was opened to guests as a holiday home after 2010, once the company started operating. Despite modern enhancements made to the property by the company, it still retains its old-world charm.

Design and Architecture

The machiya stays true to its roots by boasting traditional Japanese architecture, right from the entrance showcasing lattice doors or ‘koshi’. Inside, you'll find rich old woodwork in almost every room, reminding you of a bygone era. The handwoven wicker ceiling (ajiro tenjo) also adds a rustic charm to the interior. There's a Japanese-style room reminiscent of the tearooms in Japan. It features tatami mats on the floor, with 'koshibari' paper along the skirting. Even the bathroom offers a nostalgic vibe with its 'goemon' or cauldron-style bathtub.

Bonbori-an Machiya House is a self-catering property. So, while there's no restaurant on site, you can still enjoy delicious meals by utilizing the fully equipped kitchen. It features an induction stovetop, a microwave, a toaster, a rice cooker, and other cookware, along with cutlery. The warm and cozy garden-view dining area is perfect for sharing meals with loved ones. After a hearty meal, enjoy a cup of black or green tea or savor the pour-over Machiya Coffee provided by Machiya Residence Inn.

On days you're too tired to cook, call the Machiya Residence Inn staff for restaurant recommendations nearby. Step out to relish Italian cuisine with a Japanese twist at The Sodoh Higashiyama Kyoto, just a four-minute walk away. If you're in the mood for something sweet, walk a couple of minutes to Kasagiya to enjoy its cakes and matcha.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Bonbori-an Machiya House is located in a cultural hotspot of Tokyo, just a minute away from Yasaka Pagoda, so it's no surprise that it will be an ideal base for your cultural pursuits. Just a two-minute walk away, you'll find the Ninenzaka walkway lined with historic buildings and souvenir shops that you can access while walking down a cobblestone slope. If you're into arts and crafts, stop by the handicraft museum, Kiyomizu Sannenzaka Museum, only three minutes on foot from the machiya.

Outdoor lovers will have amazing options as well. Visit Kodaiji Park, just a five-minute walk away, to soak in the serene vibe and lush greenery. Just a little further, Rokuhara Park also offers natural beauty with its blooming trees.