Neighborhood

Vibrant local life and rich Japanese history.

Just steps from Kyoto’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nijo Castle (Nijo-jo), THE MACHIYA SHINSEN-EN hotel is located in a historical neighbourhood once occupied by feudal lords and samurai. Experience the neighborhood as it is today: filled with longstanding tradition, lively local culture, and dotted with temples and shrines.

THE MACHIYA SHINSEN-EN hotel also offers easy access to all of the best things to do and see in Kyoto. Explore the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Forest to the east, the traditional Gion geiko area to the west, Kyoto Imperial Palace to the north, and Fushimi Inari Shrine to the south.

Start at THE MACHIYA SHINSEN-EN hotel to experience the best of Kyoto.

Click for our local recommendations

Steps away from Nijo Castle (Nijo-jo), a UNESCO World Heritage Site: Nijo Castle, a former imperial palace with over 400 hundred years of history, is just a few minutes walk from THE MACHIYA SHINSEN-EN hotel. Walk down castle corridors where shinobi (ninja) mercenaries once passed through, or take a stroll through its traditional Japanese landscape garden. From its spring sakura cherry blossoms and autumn fall foliage to its winter nighttime illuminations, Nijo Castle awaits you all year round.

Take in the local atmosphere at Sanjo Shotengai, a lively shopping arcade: A 2-minute walk from the THE MACHIYA SHINSEN-EN hotel is Sanjo Shotengai, one of Kyoto’s most vibrant and traditional shopping arcades. Bustling with local life, this street is lined with long-established shops, specialty stores and eateries. From mom-and-pop sushi and noodle restaurants and retro kissaten coffee shops, to stylish cafes, bars and more, ask THE MACHIYA SHINSEN-EN staff about our favorites places, and hidden gems only known to locals.

Shinsen-en Garden, 1 minute away: From THE MACHIYA SHINSEN-EN hotel, wander to this quaint garden which has a history of over 1000 years, dating to the Heian Period. Built as part of a Chinese-style garden by Japanese Emperor Kammu, Shinsen-en Garden was where Kyoto’s nobility once gathered for boating and moon-viewing parties.

Easy and direct access to Gion, Kinkakuji, and more: THE MACHIYA SHINSEN-EN hotel offers direct access to some of the city’s most famous and historical sites, making it one of the best places to stay in Kyoto. Public transportation will bring you to the Gion geiko district, Kinkakuji Golden Temple, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest area, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Pontocho dining district, and more. Feel free to ask our friendly guest services staff for other recommendations, and our favourite places throughout the city.

THE MACHIYA SHINSEN-EN hotel is less than a 6-minute walk to:
・Nijojo-mae Station (Kyoto Subway),
・JR Nijo Station, which has direct access to Kyoto Station,
and multiple bus stops, which has direct access to Kyoto Station.

Vibrant local life and rich Japanese history.