Kohaku-an Machiya House is a traditional Japanese townhouse that was once owned by a merchant. Its front area was used as a shop, while the owners stayed at the back of the house. Machiyas were quite popular with merchants and artisans. They originated in the Heian Period, and most of them have survived well through the years.

In 1950, the Japanese Building Standards Act prohibited the construction of new machiyas as the traditional construction methods didn't pass the safety laws. Machiyas started to fall into disuse and disrepair until companies such as Machiya Residence Inn stepped in to renovate and preserve them. Machiya Residence Inn started operation in 2010, and Kohaku-an Machiya House was the very first machiya they restored and transformed into a holiday home. Despite being updated with modern enhancements, the machiya still preserves many original features as a nod to the bygone era.

Design and Architecture

Kohaku-an Machiya House's architecture is true to the typical kyo-machiya architectural style. The windows and doors feature koshi or lattice woodwork, while the roof comes with ichimonji tiles that have a distinct wave-like pattern. There's also an inuyarai or low bamboo fence at the entrance.

Inside, the machiya features a renovated misenoma or entrance room that's ideal for unwinding. There's an okunoma room, which is considered the heart of the home. This room comes with tatami mats on the floor and rich woodwork. The kitchen offers a hibukuro-style ceiling that acts as a chimney or exhaust. If you like the Kiyomizu-yaki style of pottery, you'll appreciate the ceramic sink in the bathroom, which is inspired by the same. You can also find artwork and furnishings highlighting the bamboo groves of Kyoto. The most serene part of the accommodation is the tsuboniwa, which is a cozy space to get some fresh air.

As Kohaku-an Machiya House is more of a guest house than a traditional hotel, it doesn't offer a restaurant on site. For your gastronomic needs, you're free to utilize the fully equipped kitchen provided here. It features an induction stovetop for hassle-free cooking, along with other appliances such as a microwave, rice cooker, and toaster. Cutlery is also available for your convenience. Caffeine lovers will appreciate the black tea, green tea, and original pour-over Machiya Coffee provided. Another highlight of the kitchen is the hibukuro-style ceiling, which will ensure the heat and smoke from cooking don't bother you.

The staff at Machiya Residence Inn is available from 10 am to 7 pm every day, and you can request their assistance regarding restaurant reservations. Nearby eateries include a dessert restaurant, Baikodo, and Kathmandu Dining and Bar Tofukuji Ten, which serves Nepalese and Indian cuisine. Both restaurants are within a five-minute walking distance of the machiya.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Kohaku-an Machiya House is in an excellent location, close to many of Kyoto's cultural, historical, and natural offerings. It's in the historic Higashiyama ward, close to Imakumano, a retro-style shopping street where you can pick up so,e souvenirs. Tofukuji Temple, a 13th-century Buddhist temple, is only a seven-minute walk away. Further, about a 25-minute walk away, you can admire the bright red torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine. If you wish to dive into the rich heritage of Japan, visit the Kyoto National Museum, about a 13-minute walk away. Kyoto has a lot in store for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts as well, including parks such as Rokuhara, Kasuga, and Kodaiji, 8, 19, and 36 minutes away by car, respectively.