Machiya Kyoto Shogoin

The smiling hosts were waiting to greet me when I arrived. Let me in, showed me where everything was. And throughout my stay were always available if I needed help in any way. A throughly nice couple! And unlike other places I have stayed in there was very well equipped kitchen, which made self catering very easy. There was also a washing machine which also dried the clothes - quite a luxury. In other words a home from home for the 17 days I was staying there. This is the third time I have stayed in this area and I like that it is "local" rather than in a more commercial area. On the previous visits I also stayed in a machiya and this was by far the best one I have stayed in! There were many buses just a few minutes away that could take me to many places of interest, and an extra few minutes walking took me to the Keihan railway line. An excellent line for access, again, to many places of interest. Local smaller shops and a supermarket all within easy reach for those who, like me, want to eat at "home".

This was a house with room for several people to stay. The fact that there was only one toilet - and that it was on the ground floor whilst the bedrooms are upstairs would surely not be very convenient for a family. Personally, being on my own, the problem was more that at my age (75!) coping with those stairs in the middle of the night was a worry. I would suggest that as there is an empty space at the top of the stairs between the two bedrooms, putting in an extra toilet there would be a real asset.

Hosts were exceptionally accomodating and friendly. They went above and beyond to make our stay comfortable. Host was so kind that he even drove my family of 5 and our luggages to the train station free of charge. That was a very nice gesture. We highly recommend this property.

This place in Kyoto really went beyond what I expected. It was my third time visiting Kyoto, and this property truly felt like it captured the essence of Kyoto, and Japan in general. It’s a traditional Japanese house with futons and a family dining table that even has a warmer, which was cozy. There are also two open gardens right outside your room, which was a nice touch. They provided a full set of amenities and thoughtful extras. We got a nice Nespresso coffee set and two boxes of bottled water, so we didn't need to buy any. The kitchen was big, and I cooked dinner a couple of times, which helped save money. The whole place was super clean and felt like living in 1950s Japan, which I loved. The second floor had a big tatami room, but we didn't use it since the two downstairs rooms with four futons were enough for us. The host was truly amazing and incredibly kind. They helped a lot with check-in and gave great tips for getting around. They also had several bikes we could use for free, which was very handy. At the end of our stay, they even offered to drive us to Kyoto Station, which we happily accepted. Leaving felt a little sad because it honestly felt like home by then. Overall, it really exceeded my expectations. I'll definitely suggest this place to anyone asking about where to stay in Kyoto.

The only thing that might be a drawback is that the property is a bit far from the main street, the station, and convenience stores. The street itself was lovely, with a peaceful atmosphere where you could even see a Buddhist priest chanting, which was unique. But just make sure you plan extra time for walking or buy anything you need before heading back. Also, this isn't a negative for me, but more a heads-up: if you've seen the movie "Ju-On" and aren't keen on the quiet, sometimes minimally lit vibe of an old Japanese house, this might not be for you. My wife found it a bit spooky at night because of that old Japanese horror movie feel, but I actually really liked it!

Host was wonderfully friendly and helpful. Lovely house with good facilities. Strongly recommend as a place to stay in Kyoto.

The hosts who live next door were very kind and helpful. The bicycles that were available made for adventures and easy travel to near by sites.

Outstanding property, just want we wanted. Extremely helpful host. Quiet location and close to transport.

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The owner was very kind with great sense of hospitality. He was waiting for us upon our arrival and brought us to his lovely and coszy home with Japanese sleeping style room, which was very nice for my family, esp senior people with backpain issue. There are one kitchen, two toilets and spacious bathroom and beautiful garden ( though it was locked). What is more, you also get free bicycles to get around easily.

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Everything - our host, the location, the property, the extras. Hands down the best accomodation I stayed in whilst visiting Japan. Bonus - we were allowed to make use of bikes provided by the host. Do not travel Kyoto any other way - highlight was riding along the canals enjoying the last cherry blossoms!

Best stay in Japan. The owner went above and beyond. Along with the property being immaculate and excellent value for money, he also dropped us off to the station when we checked out, and offered to deliver my jacket to me when I had forgot it. Best host ever!

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