SARABU Zen Spirit, a 100-year-old Kyoto machiya house, quiet and elegant—near Gion

Top rated by guests
Interior
Spa
Interior
Spa
Bathroom
review stars
10Outstanding
(2 Ratings)
"Stellar experience from start to finish. This beautiful modern machiya offers a genuine glimpse into everyday Japanese living, while still feeling luxuriously special. The sense of harmony and balance..."
Fabio P.
Don't miss out! Price and availability may change
10 / 10
Outstanding(2 Ratings)

House in Kyoto

4 guests · 2 bedrooms · 3 baths

Reasons to book

Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
High-end valueWell priced for this area
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About this house rental

Private Open-Air Bath and Gazebo!
"Machiya Sarabu" is a small, 100-year-old, two-story machiya in the Higashiyama area of Kyoto. A machiya is a historic house that has been lived in and preserved by the people of Kyoto, and is primarily constructed of wood, earth, bamboo, and paper. The neighboring machiya, “Tsubara,” built this house. Sarabu is a bit more modern, yet retains a Zen spirit. It features a simple yet authentic Japanese garden, and the private open-air bath offers the perfect way to soak while gazing out over the garden!
In one corner of the garden is a gazebo where you can meditate, read, or relax after bathing—it’s like a small tea room. Looking out at the garden from here, you’ll find answers to your inner questions.
The bedroom has two beds and two sets of futons.
The kitchen is equipped with complimentary beverages and basic cooking facilities.
Antiques and seasonal art are displayed throughout the house.
There are many famous temples and shrines nearby, such as Kiyomizu-dera, Kennin-ji, and Sanjusangendo, all within walking distance of the house. The popular Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine is also just 20 minutes away, and you can take a walk along the beautiful Kamo River.
Gion, with its many Michelin-starred restaurants, is a 10-minute walk away, and a reputable supermarket is just a 3-minute walk away!
The house is so quiet that it’s hard to believe it’s in the heart of a bustling city. Soak in the open-air bath after returning from sightseeing, and you’ll be able to wash away the day’s fatigue! By now, you’ll feel like a true Kyoto local!

*The “Kyoto City Accommodation Tax” must be paid in cash at check-in.
Less than 20,000 yen per person per night… 400 yen per person per night
More than 20,000 yen but less than 50,000 yen per person per night… 1,000 yen per person per night
More than 50,000 yen per person per night… 4,000 yen per person per night. We will send you the details via message.

Amenities

Free WiFi/internet
Air conditioning
Non-smoking
Gym
TV
Heating
Refrigerator
Kitchen
WiFi/Internet
Hot tub/Jacuzzi
Microwave
Washing machine
Dryer
Washer/dryer
Patio
Kitchenware
No pets allowed
Garden
Kettle
Oven
Stove
Laundry services
Shower
Ironing facilities
Towels
Linens
Dining table
Desk
Hairdryer
Fire extinguisher

Map of Kyoto

city location on map

Ratings and reviews

10 / 10
Outstanding(2 Ratings)
10 / 10Outstanding·Nov 2025
Stellar experience from start to finish. This beautiful modern machiya offers a genuine glimpse into everyday Japanese living, while still feeling luxuriously special. The sense of harmony and balance throughout the house is genuinely restorative — it’s the kind of place that makes you breathe a little slower.The small garden is truly the jewel in the crown. Being able to soak in a hot bath in the privacy of your own garden, or sit quietly in the meditation room overlooking that peaceful green space, was unforgettable.The location is also ideal: surrounded by useful amenities, easy to get around from, and perfectly placed for exploring the countless attractions the city has to offer.And then, the hosts. Koji and Eri are the kindest and most thoughtful hosts I’ve ever had. They welcomed us with a full tour, explained every detail clearly, and made sure we felt completely at home. Nothing was left to chance. Their recommendations for local bakeries and restaurants were absolute gems — the sort of authentic, local knowledge you simply wouldn’t find on your own.We left feeling grateful, relaxed, and already hoping to return. We can’t wait to come back.

$$$$
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FAQs

Is parking included with this house?

Parking is not specified as an available amenity at SARABU Zen Spirit, a 100-year-old Kyoto machiya house, quiet and elegant—near Gion. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.

Is there a pool at this house?

We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this house. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.

Is SARABU Zen Spirit, a 100-year-old Kyoto machiya house, quiet and elegant—near Gion pet friendly?

Unfortunately, this house is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"

What amenities are available at SARABU Zen Spirit, a 100-year-old Kyoto machiya house, quiet and elegant—near Gion?

We found 30 amenities for this rental. This includes free wifi/internet, air conditioning, non-smoking, gym, and tv.


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