Stay at Machiya

1. Just like Tokyo’s kominka (old-fashioned guesthouses), lodgings using Kyoto’s old machiya (townhouses) are on the rise.

2. Pan and Circus is a guesthouse in a renovated century-year-old pawnshop. It aims to be a “salon for young travelers from all over the world” and welcomes international guests. The bar space with the owner’s collection of antique furniture and works by various artists offers a pleasant place to socialize. You don’t have to stay here to enter the bar. Please go in and mingle with the guests.

3. Toshiharu Ryokan is a 100-year-old ryokan (old-fashioned inn) designated as a registered tangible cultural asset of the nation. Staying at this ryokan used to be by invitation only, but today anyone can make a reservation. At dusk, the courtyard is illuminated and guests can enjoy a charming view from their rooms. No dinner is served, but do take the okamisan’s (landlady’s) recommendations on restaurants. She will surely tell you about good ones in the neighborhood.