As much as machiya are icons of Edo Japan's architecture and culture, their architecture is also seen as quirky. They were often described as "unagi no nedoko", which means "lair of an eel". Mimari Machiya embraces that concept and capitalizes on that long design to become its selling point. While the actual history of this charming machiya is lost to time, it has found a new purpose as a lovely and stylish home away from home.

Design and Architecture

When compared to other machiya in the area, Mimari Machiya tends to stand out due to seeming much more narrow than the rest. Yet instead of being cramped and uncomfortable, the home plays to its strengths, embracing the concept of being a "lair of an eel" and putting its elongated design to good use. On the first floor (or ground floor), the entrance, dining area, and Japanese room flow onward, creating a continuous space that is functional, practical, and also stylish. The kitchen is designed like an alcove, providing more than enough wiggle room for people eating and cooking. The end of the Japanese room is a large viewing portal showing the garden, though there is a side passage that leads to the engawa porch and the bathroom.

On the second floor are two more bedrooms - one is in the traditional Japanese style and features tatami flooring, while the other is a Western-style bedroom is mattresses. Between these two bedrooms is another tatami space, suitable for dining, tea, or just relaxing in general.

Stylish and functional are good ways to describe the kitchen of Mimari Machiya. It has a stovetop and microwave, which will be your main appliances for preparing food. As for drinks and ingredients, the mini-fridge should suffice when it comes to storage space. If you're unsure where to do your groceries, you should head over to Omicho Market. It's one of the largest and oldest market neighborhoods in Kanazawa. You can try scoring some deals not just on seasonal picks, but also on unique delicacies you want to try. The immediate location of Mimari Machiya is also surrounded by food establishments, from izakayas such as Koide and Totoya, to ones that serve set meals such as Iroha.

Cultural Experiences

Kanazawa has a such a diverse range of cultural attractions and activities, you might have a bit of trouble deciding on what to put in your itinerary. In that case, start off with what are close by to Mimari Machiya. Kazuemachi Chaya is one of the city's historic teahouse districts from the Edo Period. It has retained its old architecture and has a scenic riverside location, perfect for dates or a casual day out with the family. If you like visiting shrines and temples, Honpa Honganji Kanazawa is one of the largest Buddhist temples in the region.

For the most famous sites in the city, you'll need to put Kanazawa Castle Park and Kenroku-en on your list. Kenroku-en is one of Japan's Three Great Gardens while the castle park is what remains of the Maeda Clan's feudal stronghold, now turned into a sprawling public park.

Other Celebrations

Mimari Machiya may have a charming and playful atmosphere brought on by its design, but that doesn't necessarily mean you can just immediately throw a party here for your birthday or anniversary. You should first make sure the host agrees to your plan, but if they don't, they may instead recommend or refer nearby establishment that can provide a space for your private gathering.