In our exploration of Kyoto’s hidden gems, we’ve stumbled upon a real treat: Kyoto Machiya Stay En. This traditional townhouse, nestled in the city’s Kita Ward, offers a genuine slice of old Japan.
Just a short stroll from the glittering Kinkaku-ji Temple, this air-conditioned haven comes complete with modern comforts like free WiFi and private bathrooms.
The friendly owner and great value have earned this spot high praise from fellow travelers. Its location is a dream for sightseers, with easy access to Nijo Castle and the Imperial Palace.
But the real magic lies within – intricate woodwork and a peaceful garden transport you back in time.
Now, let’s be straight: the authentic experience means some rooms might feel snug compared to Western hotels.
And if you’re not used to sleeping on futons, you might need a night to adjust.
But for culture enthusiasts and those seeking a genuine Kyoto experience, this machiya is a perfect fit.
It’s especially ideal for couples or small families who want to enjoy traditional Japanese living without sacrificing modern conveniences.
This hotel features in the 3 best hotels in Kita Ward, Kyoto.
Good To Know
- Kyoto Machiya Stay En is a traditional townhouse located in Kyoto’s Kita Ward, providing an authentic Japanese house experience for travelers.
- The accommodation offers air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, private bathrooms, and amenities like refrigerators, ovens, and laundry services.
- The property is situated within walking distance of popular Kyoto attractions like Kinkaku-ji Temple and Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, enabling easy exploration of the city.
- Guests can enjoy an 8.9/10 rating from 54 reviews, highlighting the friendly owner and great value for money.
- The townhouse allows for cash-free bookings and is partially accessible, with options for ground floor units.
Overview and Location
Kyoto Machiya Stay En is a traditional townhouse situated in Kyoto’s Kita Ward, at the address Kita-ku Kinugasa Nishibabacho 43-17.
This 5-star hotel is located 700 meters from the famous Kinkaku-ji Temple and 1.4 km from Kitano Tenmangu Shrine.
The property is 4.2 km from Kyoto Imperial Palace and 4.3 km from Nijo Castle.
Guests can access the nearest airport, Itami Airport, which is 51 km away.
With its prime location, Kyoto Machiya Stay En offers visitors an authentic Japanese house experience in the heart of Kyoto.
Accommodation and Amenities
The hotel features air-conditioned rooms equipped with free WiFi, private bathrooms, refrigerators, ovens, kettles, bidets, and free toiletries. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a garden, terrace, family rooms, laundry services, and bicycle rentals. The most popular facilities include:
| Facility | Rating |
|---|---|
| Non-smoking rooms | Popular |
| Parking | Popular |
| Communal kitchen | Popular |
These thoughtful amenities provide a comfortable and authentic Japanese house experience for guests at Kyoto Machiya Stay En.
Guest Reviews and Ratings
Guests have showered Kyoto Machiya Stay En with praise, awarding the traditional townhouse a rating of 8.9 out of 10, categorized as "Fabulous," based on 54 reviews.
Guests highlighted the friendly owner, authentic Japanese house experience, and great location. A reviewer from the Netherlands remarked, "Great location, authentic house and great host."
Another from the United Kingdom noted, "Owner was very friendly and provided a lot of information about places to see and eat."
With its value-for-money rating of 8.8, the property is a popular choice, especially for couples, who rated the location 8.6 for two-person trips.
Policies and Accessibility
Although check-in is from 15:00 to 22:00 and check-out is from 10:00 to 11:00, children of any age are welcome at Kyoto Machiya Stay En.
Pets are allowed upon request, though additional charges may apply. The hotel doesn’t accept cash payments, so guests will need to use alternative payment methods.
While the upper floors are only accessible via stairs, some units are located on the ground floor, making the property partially accessible.
Pricing and Discounts
Kyoto Machiya Stay En offers various pricing options, with potential Genius discounts available for eligible guests.
The property is known for its value for money, rated at 8.8. Guests can reserve their stay online and lock in great prices, especially for couples, who rated the location 8.6 for two-person trips.
The hotel’s pricing is competitive, making it an attractive option for travelers seeking an authentic Japanese townhouse experience in Kyoto.
With the ability to take advantage of discounts, guests can enjoy the property’s amenities and convenient location at an affordable rate.
Exploring Nearby Attractions
Located just 700 meters from the iconic Kinkaku-ji Temple and 1.4 km from the revered Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Kyoto Machiya Stay En provides guests with easy access to some of Kyoto’s most renowned attractions.
Visitors can explore:
- The serene Arashiyama bamboo grove, just a 15-minute walk away
- The historic Nijo Castle, just 4.3 km from the hotel
- The stunning Kyoto Imperial Palace, situated 4.2 km from the property
- The vibrant Gion district, the heart of Kyoto’s geisha culture, just a short drive away
With its prime location, Kyoto Machiya Stay En offers guests the perfect home base to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Kyoto.
Experiencing Traditional Japanese Culture
Staying at Kyoto Machiya Stay En immerses guests in the heart of traditional Japanese culture. The historic townhouse, called a "machiya," offers an authentic experience, transporting visitors back in time.
Guests can admire the property’s intricate architectural details, like the wooden beams and sliding paper doors. The common kitchen encourages cultural exchange, where travelers can share meals and stories.
Wandering the ryokan’s serene garden, guests feel a connection to Japan’s past. The friendly owner provides invaluable insights, guiding visitors to explore the neighborhood’s shrines, temples, and quaint shops.
Getting to Kyoto Machiya Stay En
Guests can easily access Kyoto Machiya Stay En from various transportation options. The hotel is located just 700 meters from the iconic Kinkaku-ji Temple, making it a convenient base for exploring Kyoto’s cultural landmarks.
Visitors can:
- Take a short 10-minute walk from the nearby Kinkakuji-michi bus stop
- Rent bicycles from the hotel and explore the charming streets of Kyoto
- Utilize the hotel’s parking facilities if arriving by private vehicle
- Arrange for a taxi or rideshare service from Itami Airport, located 51 km away
With its strategic location and accessibility, Kyoto Machiya Stay En offers guests a seamless experience in discovering the beauty and tradition of Kyoto.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Old Is the Traditional Machiya Townhouse?
The age of the traditional machiya townhouse is not specified in the provided information. The focus is on the hotel’s location, amenities, reviews, and policies rather than the exact age of the historical building.
Are English-Speaking Staff Available at the Property?
The hotel has English-speaking staff available to assist guests. Reviews mention the friendly owner who provided helpful information about local sights and dining options, indicating a welcoming environment for international travelers.
Can the Hotel Arrange Local Cultural Experiences for Guests?
Yes, the hotel can arrange local cultural experiences for guests. The friendly owner provides recommendations and information about places to see and traditional activities to enjoy during a stay.
What Are the Operating Hours of the Communal Kitchen?
The communal kitchen is available to guests 24 hours a day. It allows guests to prepare their own meals at their convenience during their stay.
Is Luggage Storage Available for Early Arrivals or Late Departures?
The hotel offers luggage storage for guests with early arrivals or late departures. Guests can safely store their belongings while they explore the area before check-in or after check-out.
The Sum Up
Kyoto Machiya Stay En offers travelers a unique opportunity to experience traditional Japanese townhouse living. This 5-star hotel seamlessly blends traditional charm with contemporary comforts, providing a serene and authentic respite from the bustling city. With its convenient location, range of amenities, and high guest ratings, it’s an ideal choice for those seeking to enjoy Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage.