Introducing Machiya and Kominka Properties for Sale Available in Kyoto Prefecture, Including Kyoto City.

Introducing Machiya and Kominka properties for sale available in Kyoto Prefecture, including Kyoto City.

Tori-hisashi

Tori-hisashi is a distinctive architectural feature found in Kyoto Machiya, referring to eaves installed on the front of the building.

These eaves are installed facing the street and not only protect against rain and wind but also serve to block strong summer sunlight.

Furthermore, tori-hisashi also function as decorative elements that enhance the building’s aesthetic appeal, adding a unique charm to the townscape.

Grille

Refers to a lattice structure installed in a protruding manner from the exterior wall of a house.

Primarily used for windows and entrances on the first floor, they serve to ensure ventilation and natural light while blocking views from the street. Degoshi (protruding grilles) are also excellent for security, preventing external intrusion.

One of their characteristics is that the design of the grilles varies depending on the type of business conducted.

Mushiko-mado

Windows installed on the second-floor exterior wall facing the street, featuring earthen plaster grilles (mushiko-goshi) arranged in a row.

It is said to have become widespread because the installation of large windows overlooking the surroundings was prohibited due to the Shogunate’s regulations on surrounding views.

Mushiko-mado ensure ventilation and natural light while also serving to block views from the outside. Additionally, they also have the effect of preventing flames from entering during a fire.

Battari Shogi / Agemise

A ‘Misedana’ (shop shelf) used to display goods to passersby. Also known as ‘Agemise’ because it folds up against the wall for storage. When Machiya in the ‘shimaiya’ (private residence) style increased and face-to-face sales decreased, it was also called ‘Battari’.

It was used as a place for passersby to rest and appears to have become a gathering point where local people and visitors naturally interacted.

Roof Tiles (Ichimonji-gawara, Manju-gawara)

Ichimonji-gawara are roof tiles that extend straight as if cut off. By creating continuous horizontal lines, they create a unified and beautiful townscape.

Additionally, you may also see Machiya that use ‘Manju-gawara,’ which are tiles with a round tile attached to the eave edge.

Shoki-san

A ceramic statue installed on the roofs of Kyomachiya, called ‘Shoki-san’.

Shoki is believed to have the power to vanquish demons and is cherished as a guardian deity for warding off evil and misfortune.

Since the expressions and designs vary from one Machiya to another, it is also recommended to walk around and observe the differences.

Hibukuro

An open-ceiling space located in the central part of the building.

This structure serves to release heat and smoke from cooking and promotes air circulation.

In Kyomachiya where water was sprinkled on the facade, cool breezes would flow in, alleviating the heat in summer and also serving to aid in the expulsion of smoke in winter.

Tori-niwa

A long, narrow passage-like space extending from the entrance to the back.

This space, which extends from the entrance to the backyard or inner courtyard, ensures ventilation and natural light, serving to bring natural wind and light into the entire house.

The area facing the street, used for receiving guests or as a workspace, was called ‘Mise-niwa,’ and the kitchen area where the ‘okudosan’ (traditional cooking stove) was placed was separately called ‘Hashiri-niwa’.

Tsubo-niwa / Oku-niwa

Tsubo-niwa and Oku-niwa, created to enjoy nature within limited land plots.

Tsubo-niwa are arranged in the center or around the building, bringing natural light and wind into each room of the residence and providing a space where one can feel the changes of the seasons.

On the other hand, Oku-niwa are located at the back of the building, maintaining a tranquil environment and having functioned as a place of relaxation for families.