Hotori Machiya House has existed for over 100 years. It's one of Kanazawa's signature machiya or old townhouses that used to dominate during the Edo Period. Machiyas have been around for much longer, since their inception in the Heian Period. However, after the Second World War, in 1950, an act was passed prohibiting any new construction of machiyas. Since then, the only machiyas that exist are those that have been carefully renovated and preserved. Hotori Machiya House is one such property, renovated and preserved thoroughly by Machiya Residence Inn, a company that has been preserving these old Japanese townhouses since 2010.

Design and Architecture

Hotori Machiya House's exterior is similar to the typical machiyas in Kanazawa, featuring wooden latticework. Inside, you'll find an open-plan kitchen and dining area sporting a renovated version of traditional doma (earthen) flooring and a movie projector. There are two traditional Japanese-style rooms featuring tatami mats on the floors and itoya lattice on the windows. Another highlight of the property is the hinoki wood (Japanese cypress) bathtub in the bathroom, where you can indulge in a warm soak to soothe your senses. The sauna, which can be booked separately, also features hinoki wood.

Although Hotori Machiya House does not have an on-site restaurant, its stylish, modern kitchen will help you enjoy homemade delicacies. The kitchen is fully equipped, featuring a rice cooker, an induction stovetop, tableware, and cleaning amenities such as dish soap and a sponge. You'll even find a wine cellar here. The heated floors will keep you cozy as you flaunt your culinary skills. You can get your ingredients from the nearby Omicho Market. The kitchen is connected to a well-decorated dining area featuring a projector.

Not in the mood for cooking? Don't worry, the machiya is close to many dining venues such as Itaru Honten, an Izakaya restaurant (gastropub) serving Japanese delicacies, less than a five-minute walk away.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Hotori Machiya House is located right in downtown Kanazawa, so expect to be surrounded by cultural gems. You can walk to Nishi Chaya District, one of Kanazawa's historic teahouse districts, or stroll along the streets of Nagamachi District to check out former samurai houses. Museums such as the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art and Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Art are also just a short walk away. Meanwhile, outdoor enthusiasts can explore the verdant Kenroku-en and Shofukaku Garden. The machiya is close to ski lifts as well, so make the most of your time when visiting in winter.