The first historic machiyas or traditional Japanese townhouses date back to the Heian Period (794 - 1185), but these accommodations were most popular during the Edo Period (1603 - 1868). Machiyas usually belonged to merchants or artisans, who also used a part of the properties as a shop or workspace.

Despite its popularity, the construction of machiyas was discontinued after 1950 because of the Japanese Building Standards Act, which labeled the old construction methods as unsafe. Some of the dilapidated properties built before 1950 were renovated and restored by companies such as Machiya Residence Inn. Shimabara Kaiden Machiya House is one of the 80+ properties restored by the company since its inception in 2010. The company made sure to preserve the machiya's original features and traditional charm while updating it according to modern standards.

Design and Architecture

Shimabara Kaiden Machiya House welcomes guests with quintessential machiya architecture, including ichimonji (roof tiles with a wave-like pattern) tiles, wooden koshi (lattice) windows and doors, and sudare (blinds). As you enter the house, you'll find a spacious and airy living-cum-dining-cum-kitchen area with a hibukuro (high chimney-like ceilings to get rid of smoke and heat from cooking) ceiling. If you look up, you'll see three lamps in the shape of colorful koi fish. There's even an akabeko (folk cow toy) displayed in the living area. The Japanese-style rooms come with tatami mats and shoji (paper) screens.

Shimabara Kaiden Machiya House is a private guest house, so there's no restaurant on the property. If you wish to prepare your own meals, feel free to use the kitchen with modern appliances such as a rice cooker, an electric stove, a toaster, and a microwave. Cutlery and crockery are also provided for your convenience. You can prepare delicious meals and share them with loved ones at the dining table. The kitchen comes with another thoughtful touch—there's black tea, green tea, and original Machiya Coffee provided!

If you wish to dine out, simply call the staff at Machiya Residence Inn for assistance. They're available from 10 am to 7 pm. Nearby dining options include Maruki Bakery, a 15-minute walk away; the gastropub Sanmaru, an 11-minute walk away; and the seafood restaurant Uogashi Miyatake, only a five-minute walk away from the machiya.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Shimabara Kaiden Machiya House is close to many of Kyoto's top attractions. The historical Shimabara-ōmon Gate is only three minutes away on foot. A little further away, the Costume Museum is also a great option for culture enthusiasts. Other nearby museums include the Kyoto Seishu Netsuke Art Museum and the Kyoto Railway Museum. The Kyoto Tower is only an eight-minute drive away, where you can take in panoramic views of the city from an observation deck. For outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, the Arashiyama bamboo groves are a must-visit. You can access it directly via a 31-minute train ride.