Thank you for considering renting for your vacation our fully renovated traditional Kyoto Machiya. A few minutes from Gion Corner, in Kyoto's most popular area, our 90m2 Japanese townhouse has undergone extensive refurbishment by award-winning architects to combine absolute comfort, luxury, safety and tradition.We are FULLY LICENSED to operate as a short-term vacation rental, please book with confidence knowing that our house has passed the rigorous safety and comfort tests of the city of Kyoto. Our traditional Japanese townhouse (Machiya) conveniently located right in the middle of the Gion-Yasaka-Kiyomizu district, arguably Kyoto's most popular area, yet away from the hustle and bustle in a little narrow quiet side street offers a haven of tranquility to our guests. We are a 100% licensed operation and, not only abide by the laws, but are also welcomed by our community to host our guests. When renovating our Machiya, going slightly against the principles of traditional Japanese architecture, an emphasis was put on opening up the space and bringing in as much light as possible. With this in mind, skylights were added, walls were removed, beams exposed, ceilings opened, beige and light brown hues, elegant natural materials chosen to refurbish the interior etc... On the safety side, the house foundation and its structure were reinforced to better withstand the risks of earthquakes and modern fire prevention and safety equipment were installed. Following this complete and extensive renovation, the ground floor now offers a luminous, spacious open space that leads from the entrance, through the modern kitchen and dining area to the traditional Japanese tatami room, allowing you to enjoy the view from all side on our small private Japanese garden (tsubo-niwa) complementing the layout. The tatami room as it is customary in traditional Japanese houses can be converted at night into a sleeping area with complete futon sets (under-mattresses + futons + duvet covers) Our custom made kitchen is fitted with modern kitchen fixtures and features a 200cm wide counter area where you can comfortably prepare your meals. In it you will find a refrigerator/freezer, 3 induction heating plates, microwave/oven, coffee/expresso maker, toaster, kettle, rice cooker, kitchen utensils, cooking ware, and enough dining ware, plates, and cups for 4 guests. On the 2nd floor our western style bedroom is bathed in warm sunlight from our window facing the East side and the skylight coming from the adjacent staircase. For a good night rest, traditional shutters (amado) will ensure obscurity in the room. Quick description of the layout: 1st floor: Kitchen, Living Room, Japanese Tatami Room, toilet, Japanese Garden. 2nd floor: One western style Bedroom, bathroom, toilet, washing machine area. The house comes fully furnished with free internet Wifi, TV, DVD player, Amazon Fire TV, a kitchen stove, microwave/traditional oven, refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher, washer/dryer, shower/ bathtub, hairdryer ,of course, AC units and a very good heating system for the cold Kyoto winter nights. Guests will have exclusive use of the house. One party only per booking. On the day of arrival, acting as your own local expert, we will meet you on site and provide all necessary information on the house and its points of interest for sightseeing, shopping and dining. You will also be able to reach us by telephone and by email throughout your stay for any kind of assistance. Location, location...You are right in the middle of Kyoto's action ! By foot, Gion corner is 4 mn from the house. The famous temple complex of Kennin-ji is also 4 mn away. Maruyama Park and the Yasaka shrine are 5 mn away. The Yasaka Pagoda is 4 mn away. The Ishibe area, with some of Kyoto's most typical and preserved cobbled streets, is less than 2 mn away. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kiyomizu Dera is 15 mn away. Additionally you will find a wide selection of eateries from simple restaurants, street food to more fancy establishments, typical cafés, tea houses etc... We have a Fresco supermarket open 24/7 with a wide selection of Japanese and foreign products about 300m from the house. The ideal way to explore our part of town is to..walk ! To access the other interesting parts of town (and there are many !), we usually recommend using the very extensive bus network. We have numerous bus stops just behind the house. The subway system is also convenient but lines are few in Kyoto and will not take you everywhere. The Gion-Shijo station is 9 mn away. The Kiyomizu-Gojo station is 15mn away. Taxis are also a good option and can be reasonable when sharing and for short rides.