八坂半(Yasakahan)

We enjoyed our first time experience of staying at a machiya. If you would like to stay close to the touristy spot in Kyoto, the location doesn't get any better. The view of the pagoda from the upstairs living room is amazing. The host was friendly and staff was helpful in replying to my emails in English. The foot bath was so relaxing after a long day of working. Things that may be slightly inconvenient: limited space to open the luggage (only front entrance area, and blinds were semi-transparent from outside at night); lack of full-body mirror (the only mirror is in the shower, which is a little inconvenient for me put on makeup since I need to carry my supplies in-and-out multiple times through the garden); washroom is located down the steep and narrow stairs (which could be a safety hazard if you wake up at night and need to use it). However, much of this is determined by the layout of the house, so it's not something that can be easily accommodated. Overall, it was still a decent stay.