Machiyas are traditional Japanese townhouses that were most popular in the Edo Period (1603 - 1868). These townhouses were usually the homes of the craftsmen and merchants of the time, made using many natural materials. After the Japanese Building Standards Act was passed in 1950, the traditional construction methods of machiyas were ruled as obsolete, ceasing any further construction. In Kanazawa, many machiyas fell into disrepair and were destroyed over the years. However, MACHIYA RESIDENCE INN took the responsibility to renovate and preserve as many as it could and opened them as holiday homes. Hikoso-machi Ginnoma is one such property. Although there's no information available about the exact date of its establishment, Hikoso-machi Ginnoma became what it is today post-2010, after MACHIYA RESIDENCE INN took over.

Design and Architecture

Hikoso-machi Ginnoma proudly upholds its traditional architecture with a rustic wooden exterior. Inside, it features a “Kanazawa Blue” and silver leafing design. There are both Japanese- and Western-style rooms featuring old wooden beams. The Japanese room also comes with a wall completely covered in silver leaf, tatami mats on the floors, shoji screens, and a tokonoma alcove, where the Japanese usually display objects of art. The dining room features wooden furnishings and fusuma (sliding doors).

While Hikoso-machi Ginnoma does not offer an on-site restaurant, it features a well-equipped kitchen where you can prepare local delicacies. Feel free to use the appliances provided, including an induction stovetop, rice cooker, toaster, and microwave. Cookware and tableware are also provided for your convenience. Plus, there are thoughtful touches such as custom-blend Machiya Coffee, green tea, and black tea. You can prepare comfort meals and enjoy them with your loved ones in the dining room, which has a six-seater dining table and heated flooring.

If you're not fond of cooking, there are restaurants nearby that you can visit for your daily meals. Taste some delicious udon noodles at Kadocho, only a 10-minute walk away, or take a quick two-minute walk to La Palette to savor French pastries.

Cultural Experiences

Kanazawa is a culturally and historically rich city, and Hikoso-machi Ginnoma offers the perfect home base for immersing in the city's heritage. Art lovers can take part in a golf leaf workshop at Kanazawa Katani to learn about the age-old craft, or enjoy an ikebana (flower arrangement) experience at Kanazawa Ohka. You can also visit Kanazawa's teahouse districts, Higashi, Nishi, or Kazuemachi, to admire geisha performances and participate in tea ceremonies.