There is something distinctly captivating about honeymooning in a residence, especially when that dwelling is both stunning and exotic, providing a degree of seclusion and cultural depth that a hotel cannot replicate. During the Kanazawa, Japan segment of our journey, we opted to reside in a 19th-century townhouse situated in the historic geisha district, offering us a genuine taste of Japanese traditions. This decision was facilitated by Machiya Kanazawa, a rental service that has skillfully restored a historic teahouse into Machiya Kikunoya, a guesthouse that showcases traditional Japanese living.
Positioned along the scenic Asanogawa river, the townhouse is conveniently within walking distance of Kanazawa Castle, samurai residences, several museums, and Kenrokuen, one of Japan’s three most splendid gardens. Our travel agent, Art of Travel, suggested this lodging, and it turned out to be an outstanding selection.
The design of Machiya Kikunoya exemplifies the understated elegance of traditional Japanese architecture. The house boasts tatami mat flooring and thoughtfully chosen decor, creating an airy and welcoming atmosphere. A video tour of the residence highlights the flexibility and allure of this Japanese home.
A standout moment of our stay was the tea ceremony room, where we were graciously welcomed upon entry. The Japanese tea ceremony is a deeply rooted cultural and intimate custom, and we were fortunate to engage in this ritual, savoring bitter green tea and sweets while discovering its importance.
Every morning, we enjoyed a delightful breakfast made by Ota-san, the machiya caretaker. Her presence ensured that the home remained orderly and that we had all necessities, from fresh towels to local recommendations. This level of hospitality provided the benefits of hotel service while preserving the comforts of home.
The machiya’s courtyard, visible from several rooms in the residence, presented a tranquil view of a landscaped garden featuring rocks, a stone lantern, a bird bath, and trees extending up to the second floor. This garden vista served as a continuous source of inspiration throughout our visit.
One of the most unforgettable experiences was a private dinner paired with a geisha performance, made possible by the adaptable layout of the house. Sliding paper walls transformed our master bedroom and adjacent reading room into an elegant venue for an evening filled with music, dance, and conversation.
Staying in a traditional machiya in Kanazawa offers a distinctive and memorable experience. While luxury hotels and ryokans hold their appeal in Tokyo and Kyoto, a stay in a machiya in Kanazawa provides an unmatched chance to delve into Japanese culture.
Note: Machiya Kanazawa hosted us as their guests; however, all views are our own.