Description
Sansukecho, Kamigyo Ward – Beautifully Renovated Nishijin Oriya-Style Kyo-Machiya
A Rare Opportunity to Own an Authentic Kyoto Machiya
This beautifully restored Kyo-machiya was comprehensively renovated in April 2026, seamlessly blending traditional Kyoto architecture with contemporary comfort.
Originally built as an Oriya-style machiya, a distinctive townhouse once used by Nishijin textile weavers, the property preserves many of its original architectural features while offering a refined living environment designed for modern life.
Renovated for Contemporary Living
The property underwent an extensive renovation in April 2026, including:
- Brand-new kitchen, bathroom, washroom, and toilet
- Exterior wall repairs and repainting
- New exterior and interior doors
- Complete interior refurbishment
- New wood flooring throughout
- Underfloor heating
- Updated utilities and modern finishes
The result is a home that respects its historical character while providing exceptional comfort and functionality.
Authentic Nishijin Oriya Architecture
This machiya represents the Oriya-zukuri architectural style unique to Kyoto’s historic Nishijin weaving district.
Designed to accommodate traditional textile looms, the house features a dramatic double-height workspace (Hataba) at the rear of the first floor. Today, this soaring space has been transformed into a light-filled living and dining area that celebrates the home’s original structure.
Another defining feature is the traditional Tsushi-Nikai, the low-profile second floor characteristic of historic Kyoto townhouses. Together, these architectural elements contribute to the timeless streetscape that makes Kyoto one of the world’s most admired historic cities.
Light-Filled Living Spaces
A skylight above the living and dining area fills the interior with natural daylight, while large openings frame views toward the private terrace, creating a remarkable sense of openness despite the compact urban footprint.
The terrace has been designed on the same floor level as the living room, eliminating the transition between indoors and outdoors. This seamless connection visually expands the living area and creates an inviting space for relaxing or entertaining.
On the second floor, carefully positioned low windows allow seated occupants to enjoy outward views while maintaining privacy. The split-level layout adds architectural interest and enhances the feeling of spaciousness throughout the home.
A traditional tatami room provides a peaceful retreat. Sliding fusuma doors gently diffuse natural light, creating a calm atmosphere ideal for reading, meditation, or welcoming overnight guests.
Property Details
Land
- Approx. 57.73 m² – current site measurement
Building
- Official registered floor area: 24.79 m²
- Includes unregistered building area
Accessory Building
- Former workshop
- Single-story wooden structure
- 14.21 m²
Leasehold Information
This property is offered with a Fixed-Term Leasehold (New Leasehold Act).
- Monthly ground rent: JPY 9,255
- Security deposit: None
- Initial lease term: 30 years
- Renewal: Renewable (first renewal for 20 years, subsequent renewals every 10 years)
- No renewal fee
- Assignment or sublease permitted with the landowner’s approval and payment of the applicable consent fee
- Approximate transfer consent fee (if the existing building remains): JPY 1,260,000
- Rebuilding consent fee: Calculated as JPY 70,000 per tsubo of the newly registered building floor area
- Minor renovations and repairs that do not constitute rebuilding generally do not require a consent fee
- Registration of the leasehold right is not available
- Lease premium at the commencement of the lease: JPY 1,260,000
- Landowner: Tokuunji Temple
Notes
- An official Kyoto Machiya Profile is available for this property.
- Under the leasehold agreement, the property is intended primarily for residential use.
- Purchasers who are not Japanese nationals will be required to provide a Japanese national as a joint guarantor when entering into the leasehold agreement.
