Amber House Gion is a historic two-storey machiya house, tucked away on a residential cul-de-sac off a side street, right in the heart of old Gion. The location is just about the best you could ask for.
The back side of the house has windows that face directly into the gardens of Kenninji, the oldest Zen temple in Japan. There is no through car traffic, affording visitors a truly tranquil setting. The main sounds to be heard are the gongs and chimes from inside the temple, the nightingales in the Spring, the cicadas in the Summer, and the crickets in the Fall.
The house was built in the Meiji Period, over 100 years ago, by a local architect, whose distinctive style sets this house apart. “Ochaya” tea houses such as this were originally designed as exclusive places where geishas would entertain the elite members of society, in a very high-end, private setting. Amber House Gion is now set up with a living room, two spacious bedrooms, kitchen, and bath. There is a small inner garden, framed by large plates of glass for private enjoyment. Radiant heating provides warmth in the Winter, and ample air conditioning assures coolness in the Summer. There is abundant natural light, since the house faces South.
The house has been meticulously decorated with a high-end combination of antique and stylish modern elements, and was designed with the comfort of Western visitors in mind. Whenever possible, natural and locally sourced materials have been used, and synthetic materials avoided. Many elements have been made by hand in Kyoto by local artisans.
The house can accommodate two to four persons. Two spacious tatami mat bedrooms offer sleeping on either an extra-wide double bed, or a double futon. There is plenty of storage space. The kitchen is fully stocked with everything you might need if you were to cook at home every day. There is free high-speed wifi, however, there is no TV.
Easy walking distance to the downtown area, Kiyomizu Temple, Maruyama Park, the Kamo River, and a wide selection of places to eat, shop, and just wander around. Easy access to public transportation and taxis.
Our friendly and attentive English-speaking staff is at our nearby office to help with any needs you may have during your stay.
