Roof Designs – Machiya House Features
This Kyoto house features 2 different roof designs. The roof design on the 2F is known as ‘ichimonji kawara’, which are very quintessential of traditional Japanese homes. The ones on the 1st floor are a little more special – as it features a ‘kiku’ (chrysanthemum) flower design.
The ‘kiku’ flower was introduced to Japan from China during the Nara period (710-794), and was favored by the imperial family. It decorates the roof of the Imperial palace in Kyoto and many shrines and temples. But there was a time in history when the use of ‘kiku’ decorations were strictly prohibited as it was the crest of the imperial family. (Now, you can even find it decorating the front of the Japanese passport)
You’ll also find kiku designs throughout this traditional Japanese house! From the roof tiles, sliding doors — even the edge of the tatami floor. Let us know how many ‘kiku’ designs you can find when you stay at ‘Masarigusa’ Machiya House!
Stay in a traditional Japanese townhouse (machiya) during your next visit to Kyoto, Japan.
Rent a private machiya holiday house – perfect as a short term or long term vacation rental.
Use the hashtag #machiyagram, and share your machiya memories with us!
@machiyajapan