HISTORICAL CONVENIENT HIGASHIYAMA AREA KOTO INN RESTORED TRADITIONAL KYO-MACHIYA
5.0
Outstanding(141 Reviews)House in Kyoto
2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bath
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Free cancellationFull refund if you change your mind
Includes essentialsGarden, Kitchen or Kitchenette, Air conditioner and more
About this house rental
Kyoto City Officially Licensed Inn Number: 513.
京都市指令保医セ第513号
This North Higashiyama house is a classically beautiful, authentic, 140 year old Kyo-Machiya town-house in the perfect location for anyone visiting the Ancient Capital, Kyoto. This recently and lovingly restored traditional Machiya Town House is located on a quiet, pedestrian only, cobblestone lane just 20 meters off the Sakura tree lined Shirakawa canal in the historic Higashiyama area. Nestled between the Museum District and Gion, it is a truly classic, old style Japanese neighborhood of old wooden houses, family run restaurants and shops, temples, shrines and historic sites. It retains its traditional flavor and is blessed with proximity to the green hills and peaceful waterways which grace the northern Higashiyama area. Women in Kimono and Monks from nearby temples chanting for alms are still common sights in the narrow lanes of North Higashiyama. This special area still retains a 'village' feel though only a ten minute walk from downtown and on the edge of the historic district of Gion.
A five minute stroll up the canal will bring you to the Museum district, Okazaki park and Heian Shrine. In front of Heian Shrine are monthly antique markets, fairs and musical and cultural events. A quiet and lovely ten minute walk down the canal finds you in the center of Gion, the historic entertainment quarter where Geisha and Maiko pass in the evenings. The hiking trails of the eastern mountains begin and end just minutes from your door and a full array of fine dining and drinking establishments are within easy walking distance. The Higashiyama subway station is just four minutes away and conveniently and quickly connects you to further sights as well as Kyoto train station and Kansai Airport.
Many of Kyoto's most famous temples, shrines and historic sites are also nearby. There is also a convenience store and several supermarkets, including one of Kyoto's oldest 'shopping streets' a short walk from the house. For those interested in learning more about Japanese food, there are a few half day courses in Japanese cooking in Kyoto and the house's kitchen is fully equipped with what you need to practice what you've learned.
The restoration of Koto Inn was completed in February of 2010 by traditional craftsmen and temple carpenters. The house retains its original traditional beauty while being discreetly fitted with insulation and modern western amenities in the kitchen and toilet and the automated Japanese bath is a joy after a day of sightseeing. Guests sleep on double thickness futons and all linens and towels are provided. The house is furnished with period antiques and textiles and a lovely Japanese garden in the back of the house. There is no vehicle traffic on the lane outside Koto so the house is very quiet. All this combined with its beauty and location make it the ideal house for your stay in Kyoto.
Start and finish your days of sightseeing within the quiet, refined charm of this classic period Japanese home. A stay in this lovely, traditional house will add greatly to your appreciation of this amazing city and its culture.
Yoshiko and I look forward to greeting you at Your Home In Kyoto.
David and Yoshiko
Keywords: Kyoto Vacation Rental House, Guest House, Traditional Japanese House, Machiya, Japanese Merchant house, Japanese town house. Kyoto Machiya for rent, Kyoto traditional house for rent. Kyoto rental houses.
京都市指令保医セ第513号
This North Higashiyama house is a classically beautiful, authentic, 140 year old Kyo-Machiya town-house in the perfect location for anyone visiting the Ancient Capital, Kyoto. This recently and lovingly restored traditional Machiya Town House is located on a quiet, pedestrian only, cobblestone lane just 20 meters off the Sakura tree lined Shirakawa canal in the historic Higashiyama area. Nestled between the Museum District and Gion, it is a truly classic, old style Japanese neighborhood of old wooden houses, family run restaurants and shops, temples, shrines and historic sites. It retains its traditional flavor and is blessed with proximity to the green hills and peaceful waterways which grace the northern Higashiyama area. Women in Kimono and Monks from nearby temples chanting for alms are still common sights in the narrow lanes of North Higashiyama. This special area still retains a 'village' feel though only a ten minute walk from downtown and on the edge of the historic district of Gion.
A five minute stroll up the canal will bring you to the Museum district, Okazaki park and Heian Shrine. In front of Heian Shrine are monthly antique markets, fairs and musical and cultural events. A quiet and lovely ten minute walk down the canal finds you in the center of Gion, the historic entertainment quarter where Geisha and Maiko pass in the evenings. The hiking trails of the eastern mountains begin and end just minutes from your door and a full array of fine dining and drinking establishments are within easy walking distance. The Higashiyama subway station is just four minutes away and conveniently and quickly connects you to further sights as well as Kyoto train station and Kansai Airport.
Many of Kyoto's most famous temples, shrines and historic sites are also nearby. There is also a convenience store and several supermarkets, including one of Kyoto's oldest 'shopping streets' a short walk from the house. For those interested in learning more about Japanese food, there are a few half day courses in Japanese cooking in Kyoto and the house's kitchen is fully equipped with what you need to practice what you've learned.
The restoration of Koto Inn was completed in February of 2010 by traditional craftsmen and temple carpenters. The house retains its original traditional beauty while being discreetly fitted with insulation and modern western amenities in the kitchen and toilet and the automated Japanese bath is a joy after a day of sightseeing. Guests sleep on double thickness futons and all linens and towels are provided. The house is furnished with period antiques and textiles and a lovely Japanese garden in the back of the house. There is no vehicle traffic on the lane outside Koto so the house is very quiet. All this combined with its beauty and location make it the ideal house for your stay in Kyoto.
Start and finish your days of sightseeing within the quiet, refined charm of this classic period Japanese home. A stay in this lovely, traditional house will add greatly to your appreciation of this amazing city and its culture.
Yoshiko and I look forward to greeting you at Your Home In Kyoto.
David and Yoshiko
Keywords: Kyoto Vacation Rental House, Guest House, Traditional Japanese House, Machiya, Japanese Merchant house, Japanese town house. Kyoto Machiya for rent, Kyoto traditional house for rent. Kyoto rental houses.
Amenities
Air conditioner
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Laundry
Hot tub or spa
Garden
Map of Kyoto
Reviews
5.0
Outstanding(141 Reviews)5.0
Koto Inn was a beautiful space. Has the charm of being an original machiya while having some modern conveniences. Hosts were very helpful and accommodating.
5.0
We thoroughly enjoyed our time at Koto Inn. It is a traditional machiya in a quiet residential neighborhood in Kyoto. David and Yoshiko were helpful and responsive. Convenient walk to the subway line. House itself is comfortable and beautiful. AC in the bedroom works great, rest of house without AC. Bathroom and washing machine were clean and functioned well.
5.0
My roommate and I stayed in this beautiful home for a couple days during our visit to Japan. The pedestrian only walkway made it nice and private and the quietness combined with the beautiful back patio/greenery was perfect! David responded very quickly and check in/check out was a breeze thanks to Yoshiko! Would definitely rebook if I visit Japan again!
5.0
This is a fantastic property, beautifully restored, on a quiet pedestrian-only street just off of two more major avenues. Busses and the subway are just minutes away, making any part of Kyoto and beyond accessible. There are many dining and shopping options, including a 7/11 with an ATM just around the corner (this is incredibly useful in Japan, so don't laugh that I'm highlighting it). The hosts, David and Yoshiko, were very responsive and gracious and have outfitted the home with everything we could have needed.
One bit of warning: this is a truly traditional townhome; there are no chairs, and the beds are thin futons directly on the tatami floor (my wife noted that she's had softer camping pads). Anyone with mobility issues or who truly requires a soft sleeping surface should take this into consideration.
We were just fine, though after 10 nights, we were quite happy to move on to Tokyo and a Western bed :-). Anyone looking for old-school Kyoto charm and relief from the ever-increasing number of tourists should put this home at the top of their lists! Thanks so much to Yoshiko and David.
5.0
Perfect property with plenty of character and history. Loved it!
5.0
This property provides you a traditional Japanese experience but also features modern convenience. As a person 50+, I was worried I would have some discomfort sleeping on the mat, but it was cozy and comfortable! Close to many sites and a metro station. Enjoyed my time at Koto inn!
5.0
Koto inn was comfortable and hosts David and Yoshiko communicated clearly and comprehensively. Would recommend for someone looking to stay at someplace different to a standard hotel
5.0
We were greeted at the door by Yoshiko.
Lovely to meet with her again.
She explained changes that had happened since Covid.
The machiya is a piece of history and is so peaceful.
The bath is amazing with a feature that will fill then notify you that it is ready.
The garden off the bedroom is a calming place to enjoy.
This is such a well situated place to stay.
We would love to return.
5.0
The tastefully restored machiya in a convenient but quiet neighbourhood made our stay very special. Thank you and see you next year!
5.0
David and Yoshiko’s property is a magical retreat safely nestled away from the hustle bustle of Kyoto, yet within close proximity to everything! The neighborhood is peaceful, away from most of the touristy accommodations, and has hidden gems of restaurants and shops to discover. The house itself is a work of art. Reverent to history, yet with comfortable, modern appliances. The soaking tub, the garden, the books to peruse…you have everything you need here. Cannot recommend it enough!
5.0
We were looking to experience Japan in a place other than a conventional hotel. This Kyo-Machiya was perfect. The renovated building was tastefully done, giving us a beautiful traditional accommodation. The garden was particularly special as we watched the wisteria bloom during our stay. It was a quiet neighborhood but close to buses and subways that allowed us easy access to the rest of the city. David and Yoshiko were excellent hosts responding to our questions quickly. Please do not hesitate to experience Kyoto in this special place…
5.0
We felt so blessed to have stayed in this beautiful home. It was more than we could have hoped for and the communication with the lovely hosts was always quick and helpful. If we are lucky enough to visit Kyoto again then we will definitely stay here again!
5.0
Wonderful. The pictures and listing description are all accurate, but even those lovely images don't do the home justice. It is the perfect blend of antique, old-world Japanese lodging, with wonderful modern touches in the kitchen and bath to provide a great experience. Walking distance to subway, museums, canal walks, parks, temples, shrines. Communication with David was always easy and very responsive. FIVE stars for sure. Will send any friend headed to Kyoto to the Koto Inn.
5.0
Absolutely recommend this property. The owners David and Yoshiko are wonderful, they met us for check in and were so easy to communicate with before and during our stay. Yoshiko has produced excellent guide books which are available at the house and she kindly booked Kabuki tickets for us when it became too difficult online. The location is central to all of Kyoto. The Kyo-Machiya is traditional and in a very traditional area, we loved everything about it. Thank you David and Yoshiko 🙏🙏
5.0
My daughter and I had a perfect 4-day stay at Koto Inn. The location was peaceful but walkable to many parts of the city, and public transit was easy for longer distances. I enjoyed waking up and taking a walk around the neighborhood each morning and found so many pretty sights! The home has been beautifully restored and was such a unique stay. We absolutely loved it and hope to return one day.
5.0
We had a lovely time at David and Yochiko’s machiya. The neighborhood was cute and quiet. Out of the way of the hustle and bustle, but still very walkable. David and Yochiko were very kind and accommodating hosts who communicated well. Thanks for everything!
5.0
Excellent location, quiet, close to subway and lots of good restaurants. Interesting historic house, well equipped and very clean.
5.0
We have really appreciated the historical value of the house and the peaceful neighborhood as well.
However, the house lacks some conforts and, globally, did not worth the price for us. That's a personal opinion of course, even if I guess that some small improvements could be highly valued and appreciated also by others!
5.0
We really enjoyed our experiance
5.0
This was a really great place to stay, great location, a really authentic japanese home. I would recommend anyone to stay.
5.0
This home is a must stay of you are in Kyoto. The bearings are perfect to explore from and quiet and tranquil down a beautiful side street. The space it's self is beautifully kept and iconic of the area. You will wish you had more time here once you experience this beautiful home for your self.
5.0
This is a beautiful, peaceful place to stay on a pedestrian-only street. Furnished with antiques and with traditional futon/tatami mat sleeping and tatami mat/low table eating accommodations. Nice modern kitchen/toilet/clothes washer/bath (with heated soaking tub!). No dishwasher. Hosts provided coffee/tea and other essentials, and they were an excellent source of information about neighborhood history, restaurants, and things to do.
5.0
Beautifully restored, a privilege to stay in Koto Inn. It’s a charming neighbourhood, with museums and the historic Chion-in temple within walking distance. Plus Heian Jingu Temple with its beautiful garden.
We also enjoyed dining recommendations by the hosts, esp the kaiseki restaurant Kakyo.
Thanks again Yoshiko-san and David.
5.0
Beautifully restored traditional Kyoto townhouse. Staying in the Machiya can be likened to living in an art piece. Also very nice neighbourhood; just as enjoyable to visit as the major attractions of Kyoto such as temples and shrines
5.0
David’s property is a lovingly restored Machiya is a convenient neighborhood in Kyoto. Quiet and peaceful at night, but minutes from great restaurants and temples. David was very responsive and provides a lot of helpful guides to support you during your stay. A pretty little garden awaits you upon wakening! Truly a gem.
Restaurant suggestions:
Bistro and Wine: literally 2 minutes from the house. Owners were very kind in helping translate the menu. French influence in a cozy little house.
Itoh for a more upscale experience of a teppanyaki restaurant. Beautiful location next to the canal and Kobe beef was out of this world. They allow you to order a la carte which is great when your partner is a pescatarian.
5.0
Outside and apart from temple's and sights, Koto Inn was an experience in itself. We felt at home in Kyoto -one of the most unique and unfogetable stays.
5.0
By the time we got to Koto Inn, we were ready for a rest. It was the perfect retreat. While we processed our laundry in their combo washer/dryer, we enjoyed just hanging out. They have a library of books that provided down time entertainment while lounging on the tatami. You can open the shoji sliding doors to customize the view of their brightly lit Japanese garden. Just lovely.
Thank you for preserving this bit of old Japan with modern conveniences. A destination in and of itself.
5.0
Our stay at the Koto Inn was lovely. Our hosts went above and beyond in helping us. It is a beautiful, authentic house close to several temples. If you want a truly authentic experience, this little house is for you!
5.0
Enjoy the privacy, peace and tranquility of a traditional Japanese home in Kyoto with incredible hosts.
Within walking distance to many wonderful points of interest, local restaurants/bars and easy access to public transport.
Highly recommended for couples or solo travellers needing some 'down time'.
5.0
It was a privilege to stay at this beautiful property. So lovingly restored in the traditional style but with everything you need for an enjoyable and very comfortable stay. Gloriously quiet area but still close to everything - subway and bike hire just around the corner along with a supermarket and excellent food options. David and Yoshiko provided clear and easy instructions and great recommendations for things to do and places to eat. We will be back!
5.0
We can't say enough good things about our stay. The property was even better in person. The host was easy to communicate with and they are both sweet and caring host. The location is really nice and still private. I don't think it's ideal for people with small children & toddlers but that is personal opinion.
We would definitely recommend this place if your looking to experience and authentic Kyoto home.
We will be back. Yoshiko is the best ☺️ and David is also very nice.
5.0
Koto Inn is a charming house that's full of historic character and also has all the modern amenities. It's in a beautiful and quiet neighborhood but is quite convenient to public transit. There are excellent bakeries, cafes, confectionaries, and restaurants within a few minutes' walk. David and Yoshiko are thoughtful hosts and the entire stay from check-in to check-out went very smoothly. Overall, this was the perfect home base for our vacation in Kyoto.
5.0
Koto Inn is a beautiful place to stay. This house was perfect in every respect for my 2-week visit. I will definitely be back to stay in the future and feel most grateful to David and Yoshiko for providing this Kyoto paradise.
5.0
Koto Inn is a truly enchanting place to stay. It is a beautiful traditional Japanese house that has been lovingly careful for. The owners are deeply thoughtful about ensuring guests have a good stay. The neighbourhood with its canal at the end of the street is a truly peaceful place only a short walk from all wonderful temples and the forest. If you don’t fall in love with Kyoto staying here I would be very surprised.
5.0
We had the most magical time at Koto Inn. Whenever we make it back to Kyoto I couldn’t imagine staying anywhere else. As well as having the most amazing place to rest ourselves, the accommodation is also in a great location for seeing the main sights of Kyoto and still managed to be serene and beautiful.
5.0
The property is very tasteful and consistent with traditional machiya styles, set in a great part of Higashiyama near the Shirakawa. It is well located for transport, food shops, restaurants and important sites, yet still very quiet.
A microwave oven would be a useful addition especially as the full cooktop was out of action. The instructions provided were clear and helpful.
5.0
Our stay at Koto Inn was perfect. It had everything we wanted for a quiet and restful visit to Kyoto while still being able to conveniently hit all the major tourist attractions. It is a short walk to a metro station so getting around the city was easy. There are great restaurants, cafés, and shops nearby. And the neighborhood is absolutely charming. David and Yoshiko are wonderful hosts. Communication, check-in, check-out were excellent. Hope we get a chance to come back one day.
5.0
I'll be back - living like a local in Koto Inn!
5.0
We absolutely loved David and Yoshiko’s place. It is exactly as advertised- wonderfully decorated and restored. Everything about it was exceptional. Yoshiko was so helpful at check in and so delightful when we randomly ran into her in one of the local shops. Her restaurant guide is great and we found our favorite place to eat (Bamboo). So much information in all their guides that they have put together- so comprehensive!! The whole area is so calming and soothing to the soul- daily walks along the canal and quiet streets were welcome. Great location -close to grocery stores, shrines, transit and restaurants! Was perfect for our daily excursions to different sights around the city. Our 6 days there was not long enough! Will definitely be back!!
5.0
We had such a fantastic stay with David and Yoshiko. The machiya was gorgeous and in a very central location. They provided everything we could have needed, including some fantastic restaurant recommendations, and the whole process of checking in and out was very clear and straightforward. Would 100% stay again and recommend everyone to stay with them as well, we had a truly amazing time.
FAQs
How much does this house cost compared to others in Kyoto?
The average price for a rental in Kyoto is $134 per night. This rental is $179 above the average.
Is parking included with this house?
Parking is not specified as an available amenity at HISTORICAL CONVENIENT HIGASHIYAMA AREA KOTO INN RESTORED TRADITIONAL KYO-MACHIYA. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this house?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this house. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is HISTORICAL CONVENIENT HIGASHIYAMA AREA KOTO INN RESTORED TRADITIONAL KYO-MACHIYA pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this house is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at HISTORICAL CONVENIENT HIGASHIYAMA AREA KOTO INN RESTORED TRADITIONAL KYO-MACHIYA?
We found 6 amenities for this rental. This includes air conditioner, kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, laundry, and hot tub or spa.
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