Kyoto Machiya

Why book a room in a standard chain hotel when you can stay in an old and traditional Kyoto townhouse 'Kyoto Machiya'. There are several more or less non-profit organizations, which have specialized in buying and renovating the original wooden townhouses in Kyoto. These are rented out for shorter or longer periods of time. Courses in everything from calligraphy and paper production to martial arts and tea-ceremonies are also on offer. It is a marvelous experience and offers a great insight into traditional Japanese culture.

Experiencing the classic Kyoto also includes visits to the cities several gardens, shrines and temples (not necessarily them all!). Rent a bike and see twice as much in half the time!

The recommendation has been selected by Lars Vejen who is Design Manager at Danish architects schmidt hammer lassen. Lars Vejen first time went to Kyoto as a young architect student and has visited the city several times since then and also taught at the Tottori University of Environmental Studies. He recommends visiting Kyoto in spring or autumn.