A Distinctively Renovated Large-Scale Machiya in Kyoto's Nishijin District
This property is a large-scale Kyoto Machiya located in the Nishijin area, historically renowned for its silk textiles. Originally built in 1927 (Showa 2), it is said to have been the home of a family involved in the Nishijin-ori weaving industry. The current owner has applied a uniquely creative renovation, preserving the essence of the traditional townhouse while adding a new, artistic context. The main house can be used with the first and second floors separated, making it suitable for multi-generational living. The detached annex at the rear of the building is currently rented out.
The renovation is characterized by its use of entirely natural materials, with no plastic or plastic derivatives used (except for the unit bath). All adhesives, paints, and sealers are non-toxic and contain no harmful chemicals. Harmful electromagnetic and radio frequencies are minimized to almost zero through special electrical installation methods; for example, a red switch in the bedroom 'cuts off' the electrical current during sleep. No products that generate gas during or after construction were used, and construction waste was minimized for environmental conservation.
The main house was fully renovated in August 2020. The first floor features an earthen-floored LDK (living-dining-kitchen) with lowered flooring, brightened by indirect ceiling lighting and light from the windows, currently used as an atelier. The second floor retains the original layout but features dynamic additions like a sloped ceiling in the DK, energetic use of red color, and a slide installed in the 'hibukuro' (hearth space) leading down to the first floor, showcasing an artistic sensibility. The property is sold as-is, and the seller's liability for non-conformities is exempt. Personal property in the photos is not included in the sale price. As the main house is occupied, viewings require contact at least one week in advance. The rented annex cannot be viewed. Any tenant security deposits (shikikin, hoshokin) are included in the purchase price and will not be refunded by the seller (Kansai method).
The area, the Nishijin neighborhood, is known for its high concentration of preserved Machiya. The location offers easy access to charming spots like Ogawa-dori, known for its connections to the tea ceremony, Kuramaguchi-dori lined with shops and galleries in renovated townhouses, and Funaokayama, which offers a panoramic view of the Gozan no Okuribi (Daimonji) bonfire event. A major landmark nearby is the iconic Kinkaku-ji Temple, the Golden Pavilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site located a short distance to the northwest, representing the pinnacle of Kyoto's cultural heritage.
