If you go to only one place in all of Japan, Kyoto should be it. It is Japan’s 7th largest city with a population of 1.5 million – but its most historically significant. For over 1,000 years Kyoto served as the imperial capital of Japan. Today, it remains the storehouse of Japan’s traditional culture, and it’s the place where even the Japanese go to learn about their heritage – because of its soul, its vitality, its unique place in history unlike any other Japanese city. That’s the reason why Kyoto welcomes more visitors each year than the rest of Japan combined.

Matsu Sho An is a 120-year old traditional timber house or machiya in Kyoto that was originally constructed in the 1880s towards the end of the Meiji period and was used primarily as a shop and warehouse.

The home has been painstakingly restored in 2014 to its original condition, with modern conveniences added for the discerning traveller. It can comfortably accommodate up to six guests at one time, making it ideal for couples, families, or group of friends who would like to live in an old machiya, and inhabit first-hand the culture and history of Japan as it used to be.

Read on and discover how a 120-year-old timber house has been painstakingly restored with modern conveniences.

Matsu Sho An is conveniently located in a historical residential enclave of central Kyoto, in close proximity to the Imperial Palace. It is a 5-minute walk to the picturesque Kamogawa River and the nearest subway station which will carry you to all the attractions of Kyoto. You can also choose to take a leisurely 15-minute stroll to the city’s shopping district, taking in the atmosphere of the historical city along the way. It is an authentic experience you will not forget.