Natsu

Overview

Natsu is the epitome of Kyoto style. With sleek wooden finishes, brave color choices that pay off, and a sense of effortless cool, the home’s artful renovation was performed by a celebrated local architectural and design firm, and its design stays true to the classic styles of the city in a way that embraces contemporary culture. 

This fully renovated Kyo-machiya (traditional Kyoto townhouse) is located in a quiet residential neighborhood just a 15-minute walk north of Kyoto Station, and just 3 minutes east of Gojo Station.

The house’s rich dark wooden tones, textured finishes, and bright pops of color blend classic Japanese architecture with modern touches, like tatami mat flooring in the bedrooms, which also boast western style beds. 

This traditional Japanese home is the perfect retreat with its open kitchen, generous dining space, and spacious lounge. Located in the center of the city, just a stone’s throw from the Kamo River, and with its accessible transport options, this house is the ideal spot for the ambitious traveler looking to pack a lot in during their stay. Style, location, space, and culture, Natsu has it all. 

While it’s an excellent short term stay accommodation, Natsu’s flexible layout, excellently sized kitchen, and sense of livability that combines style and homely comfort make Natsu a great longer-term rental option as well. Guests love turning this place into their own little home away from home, and you can too! Shiki offers discount plans for monthly and long-term rentals.

Location

Natsu is situated a few minutes walk from one of Kyoto’s most gourmet dining areas, but is well-hidden off the main streets allowing guests to both enjoy the city but still escape from it. A short, less than 10-minute stroll east will lead you to the Kamo River, this river is a centerpiece of Kyoto life and is lined with excellent dining and drinking establishments; it’s also the perfect spot for a scenic walk through the city. 

Looking a little broader, Natsu sits within cycling distance of many of the city’s major landmarks. You can reach Kiyomizu-dera in about 15 minutes by rental cycle, while Yasaka Shrine will take about 20 minutes via the Kamo River. Sitting just south of the house is another locally loved landmark, not so well known by tourists –  the Shosei-en Garden, situated to the east of Higashi Honganji Temple. Here sits a wonderful strolling garden that’s home to a collection of cherry blossom trees that are spectacular in spring.

Description

Stylish dark wood finishes and cool grey shades dominate this home with their warm and cozy feel, while the red shoji-style sliding doors give the home a sense of personality and uniqueness. Couples, a small group of close friends, and small families will all enjoy everything Natsu has to offer. With two bedrooms, one with a double bed and another with two singles, the house’s layout, and sleeping arrangements can be flexible. Positioned close to Kyoto Station, this home is a dream for those wanting to explore both Kyoto and the neighboring prefectures.  

The layout of the house flows effortlessly. From the entrance, guests enter the main living room space. In the living room sits a generous L-shaped sofa, a large TV, and a Bluetooth stereo, perfect for relaxing and entertaining. The dining space leads in from the living room, with a fully equipped kitchen and large wooden dining table; it’s great for whipping up a Japanese feast on a night in. The bathrooms back onto the living-dining space and also come with full laundry facilities, which are free for guests to use. 

The second floor is where the sleeping quarters are located. The two spacious tatami mat bedrooms feature soft, comfortable western-style bedding for a good night’s sleep. There’s also space between the bedrooms that has the flexibility to become a communal space, or potentially an impromptu yoga space for those looking to unwind a little. Natsu also has all the additional everyday amenities including complete laundry facilities, including ironing equipment, making it a true home away from home.