The Shoin-zukuri house is the quintessential Japanese-style house, with a rectangular shape and gabled roof. It has a symmetrical floor plan, with a square-shaped central entrance hall and a square courtyard garden. The house is made up of a series of small interconnecting rooms, which are usually separated by sliding paper doors. The main room of the house is a deep central hall, which is typically situated in the middle of the house. This style of house is characterized by its use of natural materials, such as timber, stone, and paper. The walls are usually made of thick wooden beams, which are connected by paper or wooden panels. These panels are often decoratively painted with motifs from nature, such as birds, flowers, and trees. The roof is usually made of traditional Japanese tiles, though some modern designs incorporate metal or tiled roofs. Shoin-style interiors are typically characterized by shoji screens, tatami mats, and low-lying furniture.Traditional 'Shoin-zukuri' House Design
Traditional 'Shoin-zukuri' House Design
The Magariya house, also known as the Gassho-zukuri house, is a traditional style of Japanese house that has walls constructed from a variety of materials, including wood, bamboo, mud, and thatch. These walls, which hold the house together, also provide insulation in the winter and ventilation in the summer. The roofs of Magariya houses are typically steeply angled, cone-shaped eaves, constructed from thatched roofs, which allows for rain and snow to be easily shed from the roof. This style of house can be seen throughout Korea, China, and Japan and has been around for centuries. Its asymmetrical shape lends itself to an air of intrigue and mystery, while its traditional construction materials allow it to blend in seamlessly with its natural surroundings. Inside, the design is typically kept very simple, featuring a few essential pieces of furniture and a central hearth. This style of house has a particular charm to it, and it is easy to get lost in the comfort and warmth that a traditional Magariya house offers.'Gassho-zukuri' - Magariya House Design
'Gassho-zukuri' - Magariya House Design
Minka, or “folks” houses, are the traditional dwellings of Japan’s villager population. Constructed mainly of wood, minka play an essential role in preserving traditional Japanese values, and are believed to be the origin of the Japanese tea ceremony. These houses were usually built with a rectangular base, sloping roof, and wide eaves. They are typically constructed from locally sourced materials, such as wooden beams, thatch, and bamboo, which makes them highly energy-efficient. Inside, minka typically have a few additional features, such as an enshrined ancestral altar and an inner room, which serves as the living area. These houses are usually furnished with low-lying furniture, and feature very few decorations. Despite their simplicity, minka still exude warmth and comfort and are a favorite among Japanese homeowners. Minka - Traditional Japanese Farmhouse Design
Minka - Traditional Japanese Farmhouse Design
The Irimoya-zukuri style of house is a type of traditional Japanese architecture that is characterized by its curved or angular roof lines, which are usually made of clay roof tiles. This style of house dates back to the Heian period, when it was first developed as a symbol of authority and prestige. It can be seen in the Ginkaku-ji castle in Kyoto, where its symmetrical roof shape still captivates tourists with its beauty. In modern times, this style of house has been used in a variety of commercial and private settings. Unlike many other traditional Japanese styles of architecture, Irimoya-zukuri houses use advanced technologies in their construction. The structure is made with interlocking pieces of metal and wood, and various metals are used to strengthen the walls and enhance the roof’s design. Inside, Irimoya-zukuri houses are often adorned with sliding shoji screens or low-lying furniture, which helps to complete the classic Japanese feel.'Irimoya-zukuri' House Design
'Irimoya-zukuri' House Design
The Kawara-zukuri style of house is a traditional Japanese architecture style, which was developed during the late Edo period. The roofs of these houses are characterized by a wide, sweeping eave that starts from the lowest point of the roof and rises up to the peak. This roof, which has become an iconic feature of this style of house, gives the building a distinct look and is often used to signify authority and prestige. Kawara-zukuri houses are usually large, spacious dwellings, with high ceilings and a floor plan that is usually divided into several sections. The walls are typically constructed with wooden frames that are connected by a series of nails and washers, while the interior walls may be decorated with sliding shoji screens. The roof is usually made of clay tiles, though metal roofing may also be used. 'Kawara-zukuri' House Design
'Kawara-zukuri' House Design
Tunnel houses, which are also called Sarugaku-zukuri houses, are a type of traditional Japanese architecture. These houses, which are characterized by their unique tunnel-like shape, were designed to provide protection from the elements. The walls of these houses are usually made of heavy timbers, with a gabled roof that slopes down towards the ground. This roof design enables the house to deflect rainwater, snow, and wind away from the building. Inside, the tunnel house usually has one long room, which is often separated into several distinct sections. The walls may be decorated with sliding shoji screens, while the floor is typically left plain or adorned with tatami mats. Despite their humble design, tunnel houses are incredibly functional dwellings and are a popular choice among modern homeowners.Tunnel House - 'Sarugaku-zukuri' Style
Tunnel House - 'Sarugaku-zukuri' Style
Kuruma-Gura are watch tower-style houses that are a traditional type of Japanese architecture. These houses are characterized by their tall, cylindrical shape, which is typically constructed from wood or stone. The exterior of these houses is often decorated with intricate sculptures and patterns, while the interior is typically open and spacious. These houses were traditionally used by samurai warriors to stay alert against possible enemies, and have since been adapted by modern homeowners for their own uses. The interior of a Kuruma-Gura is typically open, and can be used as a spacious living area or a private home office. Inside, the walls are usually lined with tatami mats, and can be decorated with shoji screens. The furnishings are usually kept simple, and a fireplace or futon typically serves as a source of heat in the winter months. 'Kuruma-Gura' Watch Tower House Design
'Kuruma-Gura' Watch Tower House Design
Umegae-Mura is a traditional style of Japanese village, which is characterized by its distinctive, circular layout. These villages typically consist of small houses, built around a central square, which is surrounded by a variety of other structures, such as shops and communal spaces. Umegae-Mura villages have been in existence since the Edo period, and their traditional style has been largely retained today. These villages typically feature a variety of traditional Japanese style houses, constructed from wood, stone, and mud. Inside, the houses are usually decorated with tatami mats and shoji screens, and can include amenities such as a communal bathhouse and a tea room. Umegae-Mura villages are considered to be cultural landmarks in Japan, and many of them have been preserved to this day. 'Umegae-Mura' Village Design
'Umegae-Mura' Village Design
The Shoin-Style is a traditional style of Japanese house, which dates back to the Edo period. These houses are marked by their rectangular shape, gabled roofs, and large entrance halls. Inside, the houses are typically composed of several interconnected rooms, which are separated by sliding paper doors. The walls and roof of these dwellings are usually made of a combination of natural materials, such as wood, stone, and paper. In modern times, the Shoin-Style is still popular among Japanese-style architects, and there are now many resources available to those interested in building a Shoin-Style house. Homeowners can now purchase a PDF house plan that contains a comprehensive set of instructions and diagrams of the Shoin-Style, which can be used to construct a house in a relatively short amount of time. These plans come in a variety of sizes, so homeowners can select the plan that best suits their needs. 'Shoin-Style' PDF House Plan
'Shoin-Style' PDF House Plan
The Kasuga-zukuri style of shrine is an architectural style that originated in Japan during the 13th century. These shrines, which are typically found on the outskirts of cities and towns, are made up of several structures, including a main hall, a connecting corridor, and a number of small buildings that are connected by a raised walkway. The shrines were designed to be easily accessed by visitors, and have a number of features that reflect the Shinto religion. Kasuga-style shrines feature traditional design elements, such as gabled roofs, clay roof tiles, and large entrance halls. Inside, the shrines are typically composed of several interconnected rooms, which are usually separated by sliding paper doors. In addition to these rooms, some shrines will also have large courtyards, which are ideal for relaxing or enjoying the natural scenery. Japan's 'Kasuga-zukuri' Shrine Design
Japan's 'Kasuga-zukuri' Shrine Design
The Uma-Mura clan village is an ancient style of Japanese house that dates back to the Heian period. These villages, which were first constructed by samurai clans, were designed to protect their inhabitants from enemies and natural disasters. The houses are typically built with sturdy timber frames, and feature an irregular, asymmetrical shape. The roofs are often steeply sloped and made of either thatch or clay tiles, while the walls are usually made from earthen plastered walls. Inside, the villages have low furniture, such as tatami mats, which are often decorated with shoji screens. The floors are usually covered with wooden boards, and the walls may be adorned with a variety of decorations, such as paper panels, scrolls, and flower vases. Uma-Mura villages are considered to be cultural gems in Japan, and their traditional style and design still captivate visitors today. 'Uma-Mura' Clan Village Design
'Uma-Mura' Clan Village Design
Kyou-Machiya: Traditional Japanese Architecture for Modern Times
Kyou-Machiya is a traditional form of Japanese house design, first developed during the Edo period (1603-1868). These traditionally constructed buildings were built to be both practical and aesthetically pleasing, often featuring a variety of unique and interesting features. This type of house was used mainly by merchants and craftsmen living in cities, particularly Kyoto, as the style of architecture allowed them to make the most of the small city plots.
Today, Kyou-Machiya buildings are still popular in Japan and beyond. The combination of craftsmanship and modern materials allows these houses to combine the traditional with the contemporary, resulting in a design that is both elegant and highly functional. The charm and identity that these buildings exude often make them sought after not only in affluent areas, but also in other downtown locations across the country.
Authentic Japanese Style
A Kyou-Machiya house typically features a wide variety of unique Japanese elements, such as a large tatami room, shoji doors, and luxurious ornaments. A tatami room is typically placed in the main living area of the house, and is an integral part of traditional Japanese architecture. Shoji doors are a lightweight type of sliding door typically made from wood and paper. These doors open into a hallway and can be used to separate the main living area from other parts of the house.
Energy Efficiency
As well as being aesthetically pleasing, Kyou-Machiya houses are also energy efficient. This is due to the unique design of these buildings, with the walls and roofs being constructed with a special interlocking frame called a “mugen-odoshi”. This frame helps to create an airtight seal, preventing energy loss and making these houses much more efficient than many modern buildings.
Modern Solutions
For those looking to bring the beauty and efficiency of Kyou-Machiya architecture into their home, there are a number of modern solutions available. Companies such as Kyoto Woods offer a variety of fully-assembled Kyou-Machiya houses, allowing customers to create a unique and stylish living space without the need for expensive custom-built solutions. These modern companies also provide modern updates to the traditional Kyou-Machiya design, such as energy efficient windows and doors, as well as other energy efficient features.
Conclusion
Kyou-Machiya houses offer a unique and stylish solution for homeowners looking to create a living space that is both beautiful and energy efficient. With modern solutions such as prefabricated structures and updates to traditional designs, it is now easier than ever to create a one-of-a-kind living space with the classic charm of traditional Japanese architecture.
