Although Kuraya Kamigojocho’s exact date of establishment cannot be determined, it has been in existence for at least 110 years. This is based on documents that prove that the machiya existed back in 1915. The property’s location also worked in its favor— Omiya Street became one of Tokyo’s hotspots when the municipal electric railway started operating in 1912. 
 

The machiya’s former owner had been living there for six decades. His family operated a shoe store from the property for 10 years. Eventually, the store was remodeled into a comfortable room. The initial owners leased the property out, and it came to be owned by the Kuraya brand in 2016. The Kuraya brand is known for restoring and refurbishing old townhouses or machiyas. They made sure to preserve Kuraya Kamigojocho’s traditional charm while updating it with modern comforts and conveniences.

Design and Architecture

Although Kuraya Kamigojocho is very much a modern property, it features traditional Japanese architecture and decor to offer an authentic experience. The wooden furnishings, warm lighting, and Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats and shoji screens highlight the true essence of the old townhouse. You’ll even find a lovely tea set and beautiful art and accessories inside.

Kuraya Kamigojocho does not offer a restaurant, but the machiya makes up for it with its fully equipped kitchen. The kitchen includes a mini fridge, cooking utensils, a microwave, and a rice cooker, so you can prepare simple Japanese dishes easily. You won’t have to worry about making your own breakfast, though, as the property offers authentic Japanese cuisine for breakfast.

You may also head out to try the restaurants nearby. Walk to Ichienso for a pub- or tavern-style vibe or Kasugai for its famous udon noodles. The Italian restaurant Pucciro, only a three-minute walk away, offers a break from Japanese cuisine. 

Cultural Experiences

Staying at a machiya means immersing yourself in Japanese culture and traditions. Along with the traditional features and Japanese breakfast, Kuraya Kamigojocho offers cultural classes. These classes are ideal for anyone who wants to dive deeper into the country’s culture and traditions. The machiya’s strategic location also puts you close to places where you can engage in tea ceremonies, calligraphy, and other cultural practices in Kyoto. A 13-minute walk will take you to Nishi Hongan-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you want to relax instead, explore the serene Japanese garden on site.