Gion Kyuraku, one of our properties, nearly a century old Kyo-Machiya, that was once a tea-masters residence, located in the historical district of Kyoto, Gion/Kiyomizu. It has been restored to its original splendor, in conjunction with modern amenities, contemporary comforts, consideration of the environment and communication infrastructure. Gion Kyuraku has all of machiya’s traditional elements, combined with distinctive feature of this period, which include, Ajiro Ceiling (weaved wooden ceiling), Hari Ceiling (structural wooden beams exposed), Shirakabe (white walls), antique light fixtures form the Taisho/ Showa period that have been masterfully restored, and ceramic pieces from the Shigaraki district of Japan. One, fascinating structural feature of Gion Kyuraku is one of the main wooden support beans measures 4”x15”x16 feet; this one solid Japanese cedar beam spans the entire front of the Kyo-machiya. This is a must see, we have left it exposed. Along with these elements, Gion Kyuraku has been completely modernized with the assistance of many traditional trades people which comprise of Kyo-daiku, (traditional carpenters), plasterers, Japanese garden designer, house designers, and countless other traditional craftsmen. The result is a Kyo-Machiya that is functional for the sophisticated world traveler, the family that wants to experience a traditional machiya stay, and the traveler that does not want the usual hotel type accommodations. We invite you to experience the uniqueness of a Kyo-machiya, along with the comforts of modern living at Gion Kyuraku. Senraku House, the other property, is located in the Cantral Kyoto, and its renovation was completed in 2011. Now, modern convenience has been added to its history of the house. This small Traditional Japanese House is on a quiet lane-way in a very convenient area in Kyoto: 24HR convenience stores, 24HR supermarket, cafés, bakeries, IZAKAYA, restaurants, banks, department-stores, drug stores, a rent-a-cycle (bicycle-rental) shop, Sento (a type of traditional Japanese communal bath house), hospital, and everything you need are close by. Nijo Castle, Nishiki Market, and Shinkyogoku Shopping Arcade are within a short walking distance, and from the train station which is less than 10 minute walk away from the house, you can visit and see numerous historic sites in Kyoto: such as Kinkakuji (Golden Pavillion), Heian Shrine, Ginkaku-ji, Sanjusangendo, Kiyomizu Temple, Gion Geisha District, Yasaka Shrine, and Arashiyama.
