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See the classic Kyoto shophouses called 'machiya' which once lined the city's streets and learn about their craftmanship and design --refined over many centuries-- as you visit two different private homes. You'll have lunch in one of the homes, sampling Kyoto specialties artfully presented in a bento box. You'll get to know local people and enjoy the architecture and atmosphere of this ancient city on this two-and-a-half tour with a knowledgeable guide.
After pickup from your hotel, your professional guide will take you to a Kyoto family home where you'll be welcomed by the homeowner. Your host will show you around the machiya -- the traditional wooden house that mixes commercial and residential space in a single structure. The long narrow building has a shop in the front, the family quarters in the middle, and workshops and warehouses in the rear.
Once common in Kyoto, machiya have been disappearing as a result of modernization. Your host will explain how the family maintains the beautiful wooden structure as your guide translates.
After touring the home and becoming familiar with the architecture, you'll enjoy a lunch of a Kyoto-style bento box full of artfully presented seasonal delicacies. Savor the variety of dishes that are carefully arranged in the bento box, making a meal that is both colorful and nutritious.
You'll bid farewell to your hosts after lunch and head to another machiya, this one belonging to a successful textile wholesaler. Your guide will point out the differences in style and decor between the owner's quarters and the apprentices' room, illuminating the purpose and status of each area.
Your guide will return you to your hotel at the end of your tour of Kyoto's traditional architecture.
Hotel pickups commence prior to this time
Tour Details Traditional Kyoto Architecture Tour with Authentic Bento Box Lunch
