KYOTO AND SHIMAYA STAYS

ABOUT KYOTO

If you’re searching for old Japan, look first in Kyoto.

The Capital of a Thousand Years was home to the imperial court for longer than any other Japanese city, establishing itself over the centuries as the cultural heart of the country and a purveyor of every kind of luxury.

What this means for the modern-day visitor: countless opportunities to enjoy refined cuisine and to explore traditional arts such as ikebana, Noh and the Way of Tea, as well as to pick up exquisite handcrafted souvenirs and visit more than 1,000 temples and gardens.

All of this lends itself beautifully to photography – you’ll find yourself reaching for your camera everywhere you go.

While known as a city of high culture, Kyoto is also an entertaining place for children. Take them to Japanese cooking classes, traditional craft workshops or martial arts experiences – and find out who in your family has hidden ninja or samurai talent. There’re green spaces all over the city where children can run around as much as they like. Reward yourself with a matcha ice cream afterwards.

Whether you come for a family vacation, a romantic getaway or a journey of discovery, Kyoto will offer with every visit a new encounter – and something that has stayed comfortingly the same.

WHERE WE ARE

Our machiya homes are concentrated east of the Kamo river, in an area carefully preserved to retain a feel of the past.

The BenTen Residences, our first and flagship property, are a pair of 100-year-old wooden townhouses in the Higashiyama (東山) district. Filled with historic temples, shops and eateries, this scenic area is made for walking, especially in the early morning or evening.

If you visit in spring or autumn, be sure to visit a night illumination at one of the temples to experience the beauty of cherry blossoms or maple leaves at night.

Within walking distance is the district of Gion (祇園), the most well-known geisha area in the country. Visitors flock here hoping for a glimpse of these icons of traditional Japan, but the old houses and atmospheric streets are also a major draw.

The Komatsu Residences, our third project, is located in the quieter side of Gion, just minutes away from Kennin-ji, the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto. If you like to begin your day with a quiet stroll, head to the temple grounds.

Both the BenTen and Komatsu Residences serve as great bases for foodies. Whether your preference runs to casual dining or Michelin-starred restaurants, you’ll find more places within walking distance than you’ll have time to try. If you need help deciding where to go, our eConcierge team is always happy to help guests with recommendations and bookings.

Located further away in the south of the city is The Lounge at West Kujo. A stylish wooden townhouse for two, this machiya is a short walk from the transport and commercial hub at Kyoto Station. We recommend the Lounge to those who’ll be spending a longer time in the city and would like a convenient but quiet home in the old capital.