Owner ignores heritage listing, plans to demolish significant Kyoto machiya
On February 1, Kyoto City issued a warning to the owner of a city-designed historic home after learning about plans for its sale and demolition or relocation. This is the first time the city has had to issue a warning to a property owner.
First Cabin to open ryokan-style accommodation in Kyoto machiya
First Cabin, a Tokyo-based developer and operator of capsule-style accommodation across Japan, announced plans to open a cabin-style hotel in a traditional machiya-style townhouse in Kyoto. The new hotel will open on March 28, 2019.
Takarazuka City to give away historic home
The former Yasuda Residence in Takarazuka City may soon be donated to a private enterprise, with applications from interested parties to be held sometime in February or March this year.
Keihan Real Estate to develop machiya guesthouses in Kyoto
On December 6, Keihan Real Estate announced plans to enter the machiya guesthouse business in Kyoto City. The company, along with Tokyo-based real estate flipper Intellex, plans to invest 2 billion Yen (approx. 18 million USD) in restoring 10 guesthouses over the next year.
Imperial Hotel sets its sights on Kyoto
On November 28 it was reported that Imperial Hotel, Ltd. is looking to open an Imperial Hotel in Kyoto City. A major contender for the new hotel is the historic 82-year old Yasaka Kaikan building in the Gion district.
120+ yr old restaurant in Otaru to be restored
A Tokyo-based real estate company has purchased a historic restaurant in Otaru, Hokkaido, with plans to restore the 120+ year old building and develop a hotel on an adjoining lot.