It's almost too easy to fall in love with Kyoto. It was Japan's imperial capital for over a thousand years and, as such, it's a city of unparalleled historical beauty, with over 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines (not to mention the famous cherry blossoms and autumn leaves). 

This holiday rental in Kyoto is a perfect base for exploring this colorful city, located just a stone's throw from the oldest Zen temple in the city, Kenninji, which was founded in 1202. It's also close to the well-trodden thoroughfare leading to the Yasaka Shrine and the breathtaking pagoda of Kiyomizudera.

In addition to its temples, Kyoto is also known for its traditional wooden townhouses, or kyo-machiya. Built originally for merchants and craftsmen, they're clustered together on narrow streets, each with a small shopfront greeting passersby. The homes themselves are long and thin in shape, earning them the nickname unagi no nedoko or "bedroom for eels".

Once they had completed the restoration of their BenTen residence, its owners came across two plots of land that once held two kyo-machiyas. They set about recreating the spaces under the design and direction of Asami and Associates, and with the help of Tsuji Workshop. The result is a two-story building with four residences, painstakingly handcrafted using traditional methods, but with modern updates like heated flooring. It also boasts a rooftop garden with an open-air tearoom, created by young tea connoisseur Fukutaro Nakayama. The space is available for tea ceremonies upon request.

This is a unique opportunity to experience the traditional style of a kyo-machiya in a great central location, with a cool contemporary spin. The space is pared down and simple, with wooden floors, utilitarian furnishings and bare bulbs. We love the raw wood, bare blocks and low lighting, as well as the simple color palette.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

The common areas and bedrooms are equipped with floor heating. All rooms have a combination air-conditioner/heater. Heated water is controlled by a central thermostat.

There is a combination washer/dryer, as well as electrical appliances in the kitchenette. Toilets also come with heated seats and washing capabilities. Night lights/motion sensor lights have been installed in the toilets and stairways.

To secure personal effects, there is a combination safe located in the bedroom.
 

AROUND

Rich with history and considered the center of traditional Japanese culture, Kyoto is over a thousand years old and is one of the most well-preserved areas of Japan. A stunningly beautiful city, it's also surrounded by lush highlands and forests.

One of eleven municipalities, Higashiyama is located in the eastern region across the Kamo River and is home to some of the city’s most famous and scenic areas. Strict development regulations have preserved the neighborhood’s historic character where you’ll be transported back in time. The district’s many temples, shrines, and UNESCO world heritage sites are all within walking distance including: Kenninji Temple, Kyomizu Temple, Hokan-ji Temple known as Yasaka Pagoda, Rokuhara Mitsuji Temple, and countless other historical sites.

The neighboring Geisha district of Gion features one of the most historical streets in the country (Hanamikoji-dori) and the Gosho-Higashi neighborhood around the Imperial Palace is surrounded by the largest green spaces in the city, making it an ideal base for walking and exploring the parks along the Kamo River. 
 

LOCATION

Kyoto, Japan. Nearest airport: Kansai International Airport (100km or 90 min drive); Osaka International Airport (Itami).

BEST TIME TO STAY: Fall through Spring. Kyoto is fascinating year round but try and catch the dazzling Fall colors and the Spring blooms.