Kanata Machiya House may have already been modernized to adhere to modern standards, but its spirit as a 150-year-old machiya lives on with the Japanese experience it strives to deliver. It's sure to check off the boxes of what you'd want in a Japanese home as it has all the main features you'll likely look for. There are two Japanese-style rooms and one Western-style bedroom. The main bathroom features an authentic wooden tub, made of hinoki or cypress in English. There's also a small stone garden in the tsuboniwa or compact style where you can enjoy a Zen moment.

Design and Architecture

By blending the old and new, Kanata Machiya House provides a historic atmosphere that matches with its location near Kanazawa's oldest neighborhoods. The main structure of the home makes use of its old woodwork, such as the pillars, wall supports, and ceilings. The rest are modern tiles, panels, and floorboards. Living spaces are also contemporary in style, opting for comfy Western-style couches and tables. The Japanese-style rooms still maintain their chabudai table and zabuton cushions, but opted for items with a sleek modern design. The bathroom, in particular, features a distinct modern setting, contrasted by a traditional wooden tub that makes the traditional aspect pop out, so to speak.

Kanata Machiya House may have preserved many aspects of its original function and architecture, but when it comes to kitchen design, guests can expect a fully modernized amenity. While this may dash the hopes of some out there who would like to cook using an irori hearth, the minimalist and stylish kitchen is much safer and easier to use. The kitchen is also stocked with the necessary cookware and appliances ,which include a microwave and rice cooker. The host also suggests shopping at Omicho Market so you can look for fresh and seasonal ingredients as well as interesting delicacies you'd like to try.

For days when you're too much in a hurry to do some cooking, you can drop by the many establishments nearby, such as the izakaya and bar Minato, or the sushi restaurant Yojiro.

Cultural Experiences

Since Kanata Machiya House is located near the castle district, guests at this machiya will have prime access to many of Kanazawa's best attractions. Foremost are Kanazawa Castle Park and Kenroku-en adjacent to it. The former is the stronghold and home of the Maeda Clan, who ruled the historic province of Kaga before it was integrated into the present-day Ishikawa Prefecture. Kenroku-en was the clan's private garden estate, which remained closed to the public until the Meiji Restoration, when it became a public park.

While there are plenty of temples and shrines in the area, Myouryu-ji grabs the attention of many tourists for being the so-called ninja temple. Despite being a place of worship, it is upgraded with defensive capabilities by the Maeda Clan, including lookout posts and hidden passages. For a more laid-back shopping experience, guests can take a break with some shopping at Omicho Market, Kanazawa's well-loved market neighborhood that has been around for over 300 years. Its shopping streets are filled with hawkers selling fresh produce and seafood caught from the Sea of Japan, as well as snack shops and restaurants offering delicacies you shouldn't miss.

Other Celebrations

Because Kanata Machiya House is a rental home, the property should be suitable for a small private affair. You should still make that clear with the host, and be sincere that won't be causing any disturbances during your stay. They might even provide extra help in referring establishments or services for your birthday or anniversary, such as where to order personalized cakes if needed.