−The “Shoki” is a statue placed just under a building’s eaves to protect the home from disaster and harm−
“Shoki” statues are made of tile and are commonly found in the “machiya” of Kyoto and Nara. The statue is said to ward off disaster and harm, and the vigilant protector can be found glaring down from his perch on top of our building entrance.
There are many other ways in which Kyomachiya Luck You Horikawa Gojo carries on the traditions of Kyomachiya design. Here, we’ll be introducing some of those characteristics.
Koushi
"Koushi" are an integral piece of all Kyomachiya townhouses.
Battari Shogi
The retractable “battari shogi” out front is only unfolded when in use.
Inuyarai
The “inuyarai” are short-arched fences that create a partition between the building and the street while also protecting the walls from mud and dirt
Mushikomado
The “mushikomado” is a plaster-covered window used on the second floor for ventilation and natural lighting.
Hibukuro
The open clearing left above the kitchen area is called the “hibukuro” in Kyoto townhouses.
Stairway
Making use of the space underneath the stairway is also a machiya custom.
Ajiro Tenjo (Wickerwork Ceiling)
The ajiro ceiling is made by weaving together strips of cedar
Tori-niwa
The tori-niwa is a hallway leading from the entrance of the building to the very back of the townhouse, and a rare indoor area where shoes are allowed.
Lobby
The lobby is a place to relax while taking in the adorable and carefully pruned Japanese garden
Hifumi-Ishi (One, Two, Three Stones)
“Hi, fu, mi”, or “one, two, three”, refers to a specific placement of stones which are embedded into the floor in groups of one, two, and three.
Tsuridoko
The “tokonoma” is a recessed space in Japanese rooms typically used to display seasonal flowers and kakejiku (tapestries).The “tsuridoko” is a simplified form of the the “tokonoma”.
Shoin
The “shoin”, or study, is a type of decorative space similar to a bay window built next to the “tokonoma”. The room also faces outdoors.
Yukimi Shoji
Shoji refer cumulatively to the lattice-framed doors, sliding doors, or partitions covered with translucent sheets. The Yukimi shoji is a specific type of shoji that offers a view of the scenery outside.
The Garden and Tsuboniwa (Courtyard)
The garden and tsuboniwa (courtyard) are small sanctuaries of nature built into the Kyomachiya building.
The Architect
−<Luck You> had our architectural designs done by Uchida Yasuhiro, an architect well-versed in Kyomachiya design.−
The faithful reproduction of the old Kyomachiya townhouse was made possible because of his expertise. Accordingly, we were able to realize our vision of combining an age-old tradition in craftsmanship with modern amenities. We hope you have a memorable experience immersed in the fine-tuned details of Mr. Uchida’s design.
The Amenities
Once you step past the “noren” and into the lobby and your room, you’ll find an interior design interspersed with traditional “Kyohanga” (Kyoto woodblock prints) and zabuton (sitting cushions) designed by “Rakuchu Takaokaya”, a zabuton manufacturer with a history spanning 90 years. The soft, warm lighting throughout the interior comes from lanterns built by “Miura Shomei”, a manufacturer that has been in the business for a little over 100 years. We put a great deal of care into designing the interior so our guests have an immediate way to interact with Kyoto culture. Air conditioning is also provided in every room to ensure the comfort of your stay. There’s also floor heating in every room and in the lobby on the first floor to keep the place warm even during the winter.
590-16, Kakimoto-cho Kuromondori Gojoagaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto 〒600-8357
Email: luck-you@asia-is.com
TEL 075-366-3211 FAX 075-366-3212
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