While machiya have been around in Japan since the Heian period, no new ones have technically been built due to a law passed in the 1950s that also prevented certain construction methods. As a brand, Machiya Residence Inn has been ensuring that local and foreign travelers can appreciate the beauty of Japan's historic homes for generations to come. Kurohoro Machiya has kept key features intact such as its decorated roof tiles and black plaster, denoting it as distinctly designed in the Kanazawa style. Its interiors have been updated with modern fixtures, but the design and decor still adhere to traditional aesthetics, particularly by retaining a sukiya-zukuri style for the tatami rooms.

Design and Architecture

Kurohoro Machiya gracefully blends practical and functional modern design with refined and deliberate classical Japanese aesthetics, creating a home that embodies the finest qualities of Japanese living. The ground floor follows an open design, with the humble kitchenette and dining area situated right next to the Japanese room. This traditional area follows conventions such as tatami floors and sliding screens. It even includes a tokonoma, where samurai used to place their swords, but is now used as a decorative space for displaying art. The round window of the Japanese room is actually a doorway leading to the garden, and guests can step out to enjoy the calm and contemplative atmosphere of the tsuboniwa.

On the second floor are two more bedrooms. The Japanese bedroom also features tatami flooring with futons for beds. Across it is a Western-style bedroom with mattress beds, best suited for travelers who have trouble sleeping on the floor.

The kitchenette of Kurohoro Machiya is suitably equipped for a self-catered stay. You'll have cookware as well as a rice cooker so feel free to prepare your own recipes, or try your hand at making Japanese home dishes. For ingredients, you can head over to Omicho Market, the largest and one of the oldest shopping neighborhoods in the area. There you'll plenty of fresh produce and seafood, as well as seasonal items. There are also snack shops with Kanazawa's delicacies, as well as curiosity shops that are worth checking out.

Cultural Experiences

When it comes to cultural experiences, Kanazawa is filled to the brim with them, especially in its old districts that surround Kanazawa Castle Park. The Castle Park itself is one of the major destinations in the city, featuring the citadel and grounds where the Maeda Clan ruled the old province of Kaga. Next to the park is Kenroku-en, counted among the Three Great Gardens of Japan and was a private garden estate of the Maeda until it was opened to the public during the Meiji Restoration.

Around this part of the city are many other attractions including museums and historic neighborhoods. For those who love sweets and delicacies, head over to the main store of the popular confectionery brand Morihachi. You can purchase snacks and souvenirs, as well as check out their on-site museum featuring mochi molds made throughout the decades. For more heritage immersion, Higashichaya District is one of the best-known historic neighborhoods in Kanazawa, famed for its teahouses and geisha.

Other Celebrations

Due to Kurohoro Machiya's limited space, celebrating a birthday or anniversary here will have to be a simple and low-key affair. Just be clear with the host that you're not planning any rowdy parties and instead would have a more laid-back but joyful atmosphere. If you do prefer a venue, they might be able to refer local establishments that would be glad to handle your event.