Machiya Inns & Hotels: Japan’s Boutique Machiya Retreat Across Kyoto, Kanazawa & Takayama
Bridging eras of elegance and modernity, Machiya Inns & Hotels offers a rare journey into Japan’s architectural and cultural heritage. With beautifully preserved machiya accommodations in Kyoto, Kanazawa, and Takayama, every stay celebrates traditional living framed by thoughtful updates and local hospitality.
Honouring History Through Boutique Hospitality
What started in 2010 as the restoration of a single machiya in Kyoto has blossomed into a network of over 60 traditional townhouses transformed into boutique stays and holiday homes. These machiya—once housing artisans and merchants—are now thoughtfully renovated to offer tranquility and character, while preserving Japan’s architectural legacyChoose between private holiday home rentals (under the MACHIYA RESIDENCE INN brand) or boutique hotel rooms (THE MACHIYA HOTELS brand), each offering intimate experiences rooted in local tradition
Personalized Stays in Iconic Japanese Cities
Whether you're staying in Kyoto, Kanazawa, or Takayama, each location delivers a distinct sense of place and quiet charm:
In Kyoto, stay steps from classical sites like Gion and Kiyomizu Temple in properties such as “The Machiya Ebisuya” and “Kamiumeya”
In Kanazawa, choose heritage-rich stays near the Higashi Chaya district at “Saik” or “Utaimachi”
In Takayama, enjoy riverside tranquility close to Old Town and the station at THE MACHIYA HOTEL TAKAYAMA, complete with in‑house baths and a tea lounge
Each property is unique—options include Western-style rooms, tatami suites, kitchen-equipped stays, tea lounges, and private gardens. Shared amenities include free Wi‑Fi, heated floors, quality toiletries, and lounge access, depending on the location
Authentic Experiences and Bespoke Service
Beyond lodging, Machiya offers immersive local experiences:
Enjoy Japanese- or Western‑style breakfasts made with regional ingredients—delivered to your machiya or served in communal spaces
Engage in onsite cultural offerings such as private tea ceremonies, shojin-ryori vegetarian meals, and concierge assistance via the “Machiya Locals” platform
Guest services are available 24/7 in English and Japanese, with check‑in performed at a Welcome Desk before proceeding to your machiya house rental
A Commitment to Preservation Through Hospitality
At its core, Machiya Inns & Hotels stands for more than guest stays—it champions heritage preservation. By breathing new life into decaying and endangered machiya (over 5,800 remain abandoned in Kyoto alone), the brand ensures these cultural landmarks endure and enrich modern visitors’ experiences. With every stay, guests contribute to safeguarding Japan’s historical urban fabric.
Why Machiya Stands Apart
Heritage Reimagined: Stay in beautifully-preserved machiya townhouses fitted with modern comforts.
Locally Rooted: Properties in three quintessential Japanese cities, each offering distinctive local charm.
Tailored Comfort: Flexible stays—from single traveller rooms to multi-bed holiday homes, with kitchens, balconies, and traditional tatami spaces.
Cultural Connection: Curated local cuisine, tea ceremonies, and community insights for immersive living.
Purposeful Boutique: A stay that not only delights guests—but helps preserve Japan’s architectural legacy.
Bottom Line:
Whether you're looking for a culturally rich solo getaway, a group family journey, or a boutique retreat with character, Machiya Inns & Hotels offers an unparalleled combination of heritage, hospitality, and authenticity.
