Description
An Non-Renovated Historic Kyoto Machiya in Shishigatani
Lot D | 14 Shishigatani Nishideranomae-cho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto
Approx. 2-Minute Walk to the Philosopher’s Path
Timeless Charm with a Nostalgic Atmosphere
According to official property assessment records, this historic Kyoto machiya dates back to at least 1877, offering nearly 150 years of architectural heritage.
From the entrance to the rear garden, the home enjoys a gentle flow of natural light and fresh air, creating the remarkable sense of depth and openness unique to traditional Kyoto townhouses. Original architectural features—including a suspended alcove (tsuridoko), antique wooden fittings, traditional bamboo-lath walls, and impressive exposed timber beams—remain throughout the house, preserving the craftsmanship and character of its era. The beautifully aged materials have developed a rich patina that adds warmth and authenticity to the home.
Parts of the interior have already been stripped back, exposing the original structural columns and beams. This provides an excellent opportunity to inspect the building’s framework while allowing future owners to envision their own restoration and renovation plans.
The first floor offers the potential for a spacious family living area that opens onto the sunny south-facing garden, providing an ideal setting for gardening or relaxing outdoors. The second floor could be transformed into peaceful bedrooms or private living spaces featuring vaulted ceilings that showcase the home’s magnificent original timber beams.
Located just one street away from Shishigatani Street, the property enjoys a quiet residential setting. It consists of two connected units within a traditional row of four machiya houses, surrounded by one of Kyoto’s most tranquil and historic neighborhoods. These townhouses have quietly watched over the community for generations, retaining their timeless presence.
Although portions of the exterior have been altered over the years, its traditional proportions remain intact, offering the possibility of restoring the façade to its original machiya appearance.
The floor plan provides an uninterrupted view from the entrance through to the rear of the house, enhancing the feeling of openness while preserving the distinctive depth characteristic of Kyoto machiya. Existing wooden fittings and reclaimed materials can be incorporated into a renovation, allowing the home to be tailored to modern living while respecting its historic character.
The south-facing garden enjoys abundant sunlight throughout the day. Picture yourself sitting on the veranda with a cup of coffee and a good book, surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere of this quiet neighborhood. Windows on both the north and south sides of the second floor allow refreshing breezes to flow naturally through the home.
This is an opportunity to preserve the beauty of a residence that has stood for generations while adapting it for contemporary living. Its historical character, generous proportions, and original craftsmanship provide the ideal foundation for creating a truly one-of-a-kind home.
Situated along a peaceful lane just west of Shishigatani Street, this unrenovated machiya retains the charm and atmosphere of old Kyoto. In addition to its spacious 4K (4 bedrooms + kitchen) layout, the property features a private garden, offering flexibility to create a home office, study, guest room, or other personalized living spaces.
Soft natural light enters from the south-facing garden, while gentle breezes move effortlessly through the interior. The relationship between the house and its garden, together with the deep floor plan, embodies the defining characteristics of a traditional Kyoto machiya. By preserving and enhancing its original materials and architectural details, a renovation can create a home with warmth and character that cannot be replicated in new construction.
The property is well suited not only as a private residence, but also as a live-work home, an artist’s retreat, or a second home for enjoying Kyoto throughout the seasons.
Notes:
- Construction year unknown; official property assessment records indicate the building already existed in 1877.
- The building is in need of renovation due to age-related deterioration.
- Furniture, furnishings, and other movable items shown in the photographs are NOT included in the sale.
- The property is offered for sale in its current “as-is” condition, with no repairs or alterations to be made by the seller.
