MACHIYA RESIDENCE INN Kyoto “Wakaba” Private Machiya House Opening May 2026

Wakaba Machiya House, a private, restored 100-year-old traditional townhouse, has opened in Kyoto, offering guests an exclusive machiya stay in one of the city’s most historically significant neighbourhoods.

Located within the historic Shimabara district, once Kyoto’s officially recognised hanamachi during the Edo period, Wakaba sits close to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Nishi Honganji Temple, with easy access to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Nijō Castle, and Kyoto Station.

Built in 1921 during the Taisho era, the house has stood for over 100 years. Wakaba is designed in the classic unagi no nedoko layout, where a narrow street frontage opens into a surprisingly spacious interior. The open-concept living and dining area retains the character of a doma earthen floor, creating a natural transition between indoors and out. The solid-wood dining table seats up to 9 guests and is set in the horigotatsu tradition, reimagined with a modern design.

A private tsuboniwa Japanese garden, planted with bamboo, Japanese maple, and carefully placed stones in the karesansui tradition, is visible from the tatami room, living area, and bathroom, and shifts with the seasons throughout the year.

Wakaba accommodates up to 9 guests across 4 bedrooms: two Western-style rooms with king beds and two tatami rooms with futon bedding. Two bathrooms ensure comfort for larger groups. Additional amenities include floor heating, a fully equipped kitchen, and a washing machine with dryer function.

Property Details

Name: MACHIYA RESIDENCE INN Kyoto ‘Wakaba’
Opening: May 2026
Address: 1-19 Kosakacho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8821, Japan
Guests: Up to 9 guests
Access: Within walking distance of Nishi Honganji Temple; convenient access to Kyoto Station and Arashiyama via train

Official Website: https://www.kyoto-machiya-inn.com/accommodations/wakaba/

Reservations: https://go-machiyainnsandhotels.reservation.jp/en/hotels/wakaba/