Stay in Japan’s traditional Machiya homes

A trip to Japan offers more than visits to popular tourist attractions. Travellers can also experience the country’s traditions, culture and local way of life up close. 

For those looking to immerse themselves in Japan’s culture, architecture and traditional lifestyle, the choice of accommodation itself can become part of the travel experience.

Instead of staying in a hotel, travellers can experience living in a traditional Japanese home known as a ‘machiya’. These wooden houses are an important part of Japan’s architecture and way of life. Staying in one allows visitors to become more closely acquainted with the country’s culture.

Travel content creator duo Kaizal and Sachin recently shared the features of machiya homes and their experience of staying in one in an Instagram video. Addressing travellers, Kaizal said, ‘If you come to Japan, don’t book a hotel. Instead, book a machiya.’

What is a machiya?

According to Kaizal, a machiya is a traditional wooden Japanese house, typically consisting of two floors. These homes generally feature traditional rooms with sliding doors, tatami flooring and, in many cases, beautiful gardens.

The biggest attraction of staying in a machiya is that visitors do not simply spend a night in a room; they get an opportunity to experience a different way of Japanese life. The traditional architecture, interior design and surroundings together make the stay part of the journey.

Kaizal also said that for families or groups travelling together, staying in a machiya can sometimes be more economical than booking multiple hotel rooms.

Where can they be found?

Traditional machiya homes can be found in various Japanese cities, including Kyoto, Kanazawa and Takayama. Such accommodation may be particularly appealing to those who want to experience Japan’s historic architecture and local culture up close.

With tatami rooms, traditional architecture and enough space to spend time together, machiya homes can also accommodate families or groups of friends travelling together.

However, a machiya and a ryokan are not the same. A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn or guesthouse, while a machiya is essentially a traditional townhouse-style home. Travellers should carefully check the type of accommodation and its facilities before making a booking.

Memories of Doraemon and Shinchan

The wooden architecture and interior atmosphere of machiya homes have brought back childhood memories of Japanese cartoons for many viewers. Such comments also appeared on Kaizal and Sachin’s video.

One person wrote, ‘It reminded me of the days when I used to watch Shinchan and Doraemon.’

One visitor commented, ‘Childhood cartoons’ while another wrote, ‘It looks like Nobita’s house.’

Another user commented, ‘It looks like Doraemon and Nobita’s house.’

Alongside Japan’s traditional tourist attractions, staying in a machiya can offer a different way to experience the country’s heritage and everyday life. Particularly when travelling with family or friends, this traditional accommodation can add a new dimension to memories of a trip to Japan.