Machiya: The Traditional Townhouse of Kyoto

Cities, particularly Kyoto, are characterized by the machiya style of traditional Japanese architecture. The majority of machiya dwellings’ exterior construction is constructed of wood, and it has a simple, symmetrical design. They are slender and long. The inside of a Machiya house is defined by an open central courtyard that allows natural light and air to flow throughout the building. The living spaces are organized around the courtyard, and sliding doors and partitions allow for flexible use of the space. Multiple generations of a family are typically housed together in multigenerational homes, or machiya homes. Typically, the family uses the first floor of the house as a store or restaurant for commercial purposes. The top levels, which are classified as living spaces, have bedrooms and living areas that are accessed via a little stairway.