Miyagawasuji - Hanare Houses

A Meiji Era Geisha House 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 Machiya's are some of the city's most significant cultural assets.   

Located in the heart of Miyagawacho, in one of Japan’s last thriving hanamachi (“flower town” or geisha district), this vacation home rental in Kyoto was once a traditional Ochaya, a venue run by Geishas, where patrons were entertained with exquisite performances and ceremonies.

Drawn to the city's ancient beauty and history, the owners discovered the cluster 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. 

Today Geishas have left, but you can still hear the sound of their wooden shoes on the cobblestone streets, and at dusk, catch glimpses of them slipping into the nearby teahouses along the city's atmospheric streets.  

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.

Once a Geisha house, this century-old vacation home rental in Kyoto in the historical Miyagawacho 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 for the structure. 

The ground floor includes the living, dining and kitchen areas that opens out to the lovely interior gardens. There is also a traditional tatami room with three futons for sleeping with a small private garden. Upstairs are two standard double sized bedrooms with room for a total of seven 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 Miyagawacho, this district is one of five remaining hanamachi (“flower town” or geisha district) in Japan. 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.

Bordering the banks of the Kamo-gawa river, this district is both an important historic region, and a culinary destination just a stone’s throw away from the restaurants of Kiyamachi. It's a short walk south to the Gion district, one of the most fascinating and historical streets in all of Japan (Hanamikoji Dori) is only a few minutes walk. 

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 Airport (Direct International flights, 90 mn. drive) or Osaka International Airport (connection from Tokyo/Narita International 1 hr. drive)