Gion Area
A spacious, traditional Japanese house near Gion, just a short walk from the Kyoto Imperial Palace and Heian Shrine
'Waren Bettei' townhouse: a spacious, renovated traditional Japanese holiday home near Kyoto's cultural landmarks. Just north of Kyoto's historic Gion district, Waren Bettei is a private townhouse (vacation rental) located within walking distance of Heian Shrine, the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Kamogawa River, subway stations, and more. Renovated to combine tradition with comfort, this townhouse offers a serene retreat for families, small groups, or extended stays.
Step beyond the daibei-zukuri façade, an architectural detail once reserved for the homes of wealthy merchants and doctors, and discover over 125㎡ (1,346 ft²) of bright, open space. The ground floor features handcrafted juraku earthen walls adorned with delicate botanical patterns. A spacious living and dining area sits beneath sky high ceilings with exposed wooden beams, centered around a large wooden table. Relax in the sofa lounge accented with magnolia-inspired artwork, or prepare meals in the fully equipped kitchen.
With 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and spaces overlooking a tranquil tsuboniwa garden, Waren Bettei comfortably accommodates up to 9 guests. Whether you're visiting Kyoto for the first time or returning to discover its quieter charms, this elegant, private retreat offers a peaceful space to unwind.
A little background on how 'Waren Bettei' earned its name: Located in the Marutamachi area, once known as Shōgoin Village, this neighborhood was a gathering place for poets and artists during the late Edo period. Today, the Biwako Canal flows just steps from the house, with its gentle ripples ( sazanami ) and seasonal flowers adding to the charm of the area. Inside, you'll find original artwork inspired by the white magnolia ( hakumokuren ), creating a calm and welcoming atmosphere. The name Waren Bettei blends "wa" (harmony) and "ren" (ripples / magnolia), honoring the area's artistic past and tranquil spirit.
'Waren Bettei' is a renovated traditional townhouse situated just north of Gion, in a neighborhood once known as Shōgoin. Once a gathering place for poets and artists during the late Edo period, it was a hub where literature and art thrived. Today, the area is home to beloved local cafes, bakeries, and restaurants—nestled alongside the grand Heian Jingu Shrine and just across the Kamogawa River from the former Kyoto Imperial Palace.
Slide open the doors to reveal a grand, traditional Japanese townhouse home. The dining room flows into the living area, creating an open and relaxing space with high ceilings and exposed wooden beams. It's the perfect setting for meals shared with family or friends. ・Dining Table ・Floor Heating / Air Conditioning Unit
One of the home's most distinctive features is the jurakunuri walls, made from Juraku clay sourced exclusively near the former Jurakudai Palace in Kyoto. Prized for their exceptional quality, jurakunuri walls are expertly finished by skilled plasterers to bring a subtle sense of wabi-sabi to the space. Delicate leaf motifs hand-pressed into the surface add a unique and organic touch.
A calming, modern bathroom designed to refresh your body after a day spent exploring Kyoto. On the 1F, enjoy a walk-in shower with a waterfall shower head, and bathtub. For added convenience, you'll find a second shower room and wash basin on the 2F, making group stays even more comfortable.
Start your day with ease in the spacious bathroom, complete with a double basin and our original bath amenities in calming forest scents: shampoo, conditioner, and body soap. Bath towels, face towels, and toiletries are provided for each guest. A washing machine with dryer function and steam iron are also available for your convenience. ・Toilet & Washbasin (1F & 2F) ・Laundry detergent provided
'Waren Bettei' features two classic tatami rooms. The 1F tatami room highlights a traditional layout with a tokonoma alcove and chigaidana (staggered shelving) reminiscent of aristocratic homes. It's an ideal space to unwind directly on the tatami with a book or a cup of tea. ・Sleeps up to 3 guests (futon bedding) ・Air conditioning ・Blackout shades
Adjacent to the maeniwa-style garden, a traditional Japanese front garden that creates a buffer from the street while welcoming natural light, is a Western-style bedroom. A calming space with two double beds, this room features a garden view, writing desk, and floor heating for year-round comfort. ・2 x Double Beds ・Air Conditioning Unit ・Blackout Shades
As you head upstairs, take in the high, open ceiling that reveals the original architecture of the townhouse. In addition to the exposed wooden beams, Waren Bettei features hand-woven bamboo lattice work that has been delicately created by a local craftsman.
The second tatami room is located on the 2F, featuring a tokonoma alcove, fusuma sliding doors, and earthen walls that create a serene, traditional atmosphere. When staying with larger groups, this room can be prepared with futon bedding for up to two guests. ・Sleeps up to 2 guests (futon bedding) ・Air conditioning ・Blackout shades
Unwind on a comfortable queen bed after a day of exploring Kyoto. A large window fills the room with natural light, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. For a restful night, simply close the blackout shades. A closet with hangers is also provided for your convenience. ・1 x Queen Bed ・Air Conditioning Unit ・Blackout Shades
A modern kitchen fully equipped with dishware and cutlery for up to 9 guests. Pick up local ingredients from Teramachi Street, downtown Kyoto, or the nearby supermarket and convenience store. The kitchen includes an IH stovetop, refrigerator, microwave oven, electric kettle, pots, pans, utensils, and more. Complimentary Cooking Set (Single-use packets): Oil, Salt, Pepper, Soy Sauce
The front Japanese garden is surrounded by a traditional-style wall, a remnant of the daibei-zukuri townscape. 'Kawara' roof tiles are set on their sides using the kobadate method to create a neat, wave-like path that changes with the seasons. At night, the garden is softly lit, offering a different atmosphere to enjoy.
Book direct for the best available rate on ’Waren Bettei’. Availability, nightly rates and the reservation calendar are handled by the official booking system.
Reservations are accepted up to 8 months in advance, including the current month.
