Two Unrenovated Machiya Houses with Excellent Facades in Kyoto's Shichiku Area
This listing presents two adjoining, unrenovated traditional Kyoto townhouses (Machiya) located just off the intersection of Kitayama-dori and Horikawa-dori in Kyoto's Kita Ward. While some repairs have been made to the plumbing areas, the properties retain the ambiance of their original construction and feature a practical layout with numerous rooms. These homes offer the opportunity for renovation that preserves their retro charm, suitable for use as a residence, office, or a second home that feels like a private retreat steeped in Kyoto's history.
The southern unit features a wide frontage, a kitchen area that hints at the traditional 'toori-niwa' passageway and 'hibukuro' hearth, and a high window in the void space to allow for natural light. The formal Japanese room with an impressive tokonoma alcove shows its age but is in good condition; simply replacing the tatami could dramatically change the atmosphere. The second floor, with its generously sized windows, allows ample natural light and fresh air to enter. The northern unit has a frontage of approximately 7.33 meters, with a spacious entrance 'doma' area capable of parking bicycles. Its kitchen also retains traces of the classic Machiya layout with a high window for light. The Japanese room next to the entrance could serve as a small office or remote workspace. The garden presents an opportunity to create a Japanese-style space with maple trees, hydrangeas, and moss to enjoy the changing seasons. The second floor also benefits from large windows for excellent light and ventilation.
Agent notes and important remarks: The property is sold as-is ('genjo yushi'). The buildings have deteriorated, and repairs are necessary for use. The furniture and movables shown in the photos are not included in the sale price. The seller's liability for defects is exempt. The buildings are unregistered. The photos for unit 56-9 were taken in February 2022, and for unit 56-10 in May 2020. A set-back of approximately 9.58 m² applies. A Machiya Profile has been obtained (consultation for housing loans is available). The transaction is an intermediary contract, requiring an intermediary fee at the time of contract.
The Shichiku area, north of the famous Daitoku-ji Temple, offers a quiet residential environment with narrow lanes branching off from the main roads, home to long-time residents. The AEON Mall Kitaoji, connected to the nearest subway station (Karasuma Line Kitaoji Station), provides convenient daily shopping. The area is also gaining attention for its scattering of unique private shops reflecting their owners' aesthetics. Kitayama-dori and Horikawa-dori are served by numerous buses heading to Shijo and Kyoto Station, making buses a recommended mode of transport within the city. A notable landmark nearby is the Daitoku-ji temple complex, a historic Zen Buddhist temple and a designated National Historic Site known for its serene sub-temples and exquisite dry landscape gardens.
