Tatamimats, Futons and Whispering Walls
- inspirasian
- Mar 25
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 26
The wooden facade appears understated at first glance, almost modest, but as soon as the sliding door glides open, you step into another world. The scent of cedar mingles with a hint of incense, the soft rustling of paper shōji catches the light and filters the morning sun into a golden glow. You walk over the smooth tatami mats to a small indoor garden, where a maple leaf floats in the pond and a drop of water breaks the silence.
Yet life in a machiya is not without its own sounds. The walls are thin; you can hear the sliding panel of the neighbors closing or a footstep in the wooden hallway. In the evening, you roll out a futon on the tatami floor, which couldn't be simpler, and it's precisely because of this that it feels so close to the Japanese way of living. The bathroom and toilet are often shared with other guests – it can take some getting used to, but it enhances the feeling of togetherness in a house where generations before you also found their daily rhythm.
In a machiya, you experience the city in slowed time. Outside, traffic rushes through Kyoto, but inside there is a rhythm of quiet calm, as if the house invites you to listen to its breathing. It is not just a place to stay overnight, but a reminder of how city life was lived for centuries: with refined simplicity, a connection to the seasons, and attention to detail.
What you need to know when staying in a machiya
A night in a machiya is a step back in time, but also requires a bit of adjustment:
Advantages
Authentic ambiance and historical character
Tatami mats, sliding doors, and an indoor garden make the stay unique
Often centrally located in charming urban neighborhoods such as Kyoto or Kanazawa
You experience Japan in an intimate and personal way
Considerations
Thin walls: sounds from neighbors and the street easily come through.
You sleep on a futon on the floor, which may not be comfortable for everyone.
The bathroom and toilet are sometimes shared with other guests.
Less suitable for those looking for luxury and a lot of privacy.
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