Genmachi - Hanare Houses

A 1920s Taisho-Era Machiya Restored

Steeped in tradition where the culture of artistry has been developed to near perfection, Kyoto's wealth of beautifully preserved temples, meticulously manicured gardens and traditional machiyas are some of the city's most significant cultural assets.   

Drawn to the city's ancient beauty and history, the owners discovered a handful of century-old townhouses ripe for restoration. With the help of some of the most skilled local artisans, and the guidance of award-winning architects in the hospitality industry, the renovations were carefully executed to create more functional, graceful and elegantly simple spaces that retain the beauty of tradition. 

One of the finest remaining examples of the Taisho era architecture of the 1920s, when western elements were combined with more traditional designs, this beautifully restored Machiya is a rare and authentic representation of a unique crossroads in Kyoto's history.  

Defining the period and atmosphere of downtown Kyoto for centuries, the traditional Machiya represent the standard architectural form found throughout the district and the country.

This century-old vacation home rental in Kyoto in the historical Minami district has been meticulously restored to its original splendor with the assistance of many skilled craftsmen. Completely but subtly updated with contemporary comforts, the home is outfitted with every modern amenity in careful consideration of its history. 

The ground floor includes an entrance hall that leads into the living room, dining area and kitchen, with one bedroom, with two lovely interior gardens. Upstairs are three standard sized bedrooms with room for a total of nine guests.

The traditional minimalist aesthetic is both simple and sophisticated with handcrafted pieces mixed with a handful of contemporary furnishings and decor. The central gardens are a graceful focal point, with quiet, comfortable spaces that inspire a calming energy. 

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Wifi throughout, cable TV, kitchen and bath amenities, laundry facilities, climate control. 

AROUND 

Located in the heart of the Minami Ward, the centuries-old Buddhist and Shinto sites including the vast Toji complex with its iconic pagoda and famous monthly flea market, share the neighborhood with both residential and commercial districts. The nearby Rokusonnō Shrine with its classic cherry trees is one of three renowned Genji sanctuaries and not to be missed.

It's a short hop to the Gion district, one of the most fascinating and historical streets in all of Japan (Hanamikoji Dori) and the Miyagawacho district, one of five remaining hanamachi (“flower town” or geisha district) in the country. The second largest in Kyoto, Myagawacho is also closely tied with the history of Kabuki and the nearby Kabuki Theater Minamiza. Many of the neighborhood's tea rooms, temples, shrines and townhouses have been declared protected cultural sites.

Rich with history and one of the most well preserved examples of Imperial Japan, it’s a stunningly beautiful city surrounded by green highlands. 

The city's 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. Osaka is just under an hour’s drive.

LOCATION

Kyoto, Japan. Nearest Airport: Kansai International Aiport (Direct International flights, 90 mn. drive) or Osaka International Airport (connection from Tokyo/Narita International 1 hr. drive)