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  1. Top Page
  2. Machiya & kanazawa Guide
  3. All About Machiya
  4. Tatami Mats – Machiya House Features

machiyagram MACHIYA RESIDENCE INNAll About Machiya

Tatami Mats – Machiya House Features

When you think “traditional Japanese house,” what’s the first thing that pops up in your mind? For us, it may be ‘tatami’. These are woven straw mats that have an almost “sweet” fragrance that is very nostalgic for many Japanese people.

Although tatami mats have a long history in Japan, for a long time, it was used only by aristocrats of high rank.
It is said that Sen no Rikyu, a tea master of the Azuchi-Momoyama period (1574–1600), introduced the tatami to the general public. Sen no Rikyu held his tea ceremonies in ‘chashitsu’ (tea rooms) – small, simple Japanese-style rooms lined with tatami mats. It was a space where people of all classes (samurai warriors, aristocrats, commoners, etc.) gathered.

The machiya pictured here is ‘Akane-an’ Machiya House.  Make a reservation to enjoy this private kyoto house for your Japan vacation!

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    Akane-an, a traditional Japanese house, is just a 5-min. walk from the majestic Nijo Castle, a UNESCO world heritage site. The alley leading up is paved in stones.
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    You can enjoy an 'ajiro-tenjo’ ceiling, a hand-woven wickerwork pattern, from the low table in this Kyoto house
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    Enjoy a great view of the private tsuboniwa garden from the Japanese washitsu room.
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    The spacious front room of this Kyoto house has an interesting counter with sunken floors, perfect to enjoy a cup of tea!
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    Exposed ceilings and wooden beams reveal the traditional architecture of this machiya house.
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    Inspired by the 'akane', or red, color, this traditional Japanese house can accommodate up to 4 guests.

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.

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Stay in a Kyoto townhouse holiday rental

Other Machiya Features