Naramachi

Koshi no Ie

Edo-Era Life

in a Traditional Nara Townhouse

Nestled in the quiet streets of Naramachi, Naramachi Koshi no Ie is a beautifully reconstructed traditional machiya townhouse, offering visitors a rare glimpse into everyday life during Japan’s Edo period. Though not an original building, this faithful replica showcases the architectural style and living spaces typical of historic Nara homes—narrow frontage, deep interiors, and the iconic latticework (koshi) that filters soft light into the rooms.

Inside, you’ll find a series of rooms including the mise-no-ma (shop space), naka-no-ma (living area), oku-no-ma (private quarters), and a charming tsushi-nikai (attic floor). The layout reflects how families lived and worked in a single structure, with features like a tōriniwa (passage garden) and storehouse (kura) adding to the authenticity. One fascinating detail: land taxes in old Nara were based on the width of the house, which explains the long, narrow design.

Operated by the local council, the house is free to enter and serves as both a cultural exhibit and a rest stop for travelers. It’s also a hub for local tourism information, making it a perfect starting point for exploring Naramachi’s hidden gems.

Whether you're a history buff, architecture lover, or simply curious about traditional Japanese life, Naramachi Koshi no Ie offers a peaceful and educational experience in the heart of Nara.

Explore the Sights

See photos that bring Koshi no Ie to life.

Traditional Japanese building with dark wooden exterior, sliding door entrance, and tiled roof. Signage and lanterns are visible at the entrance.
Traditional Japanese-style hallway with wooden wall panels, shoji screens, and a small entrance visible at the end.
Interior of a traditional Japanese room with tatami mats, sliding doors, and a person standing near a window.
Dark wooden staircase with a handrail along the left side, ascending alongside a light-colored wall.
Interior view of a staircase leading up to a second floor with dark wood railing, wooden stairs, and a window allowing natural light, with ceiling light and electricity switches on a wall.
Traditional Japanese room with shoji sliding doors open to a garden courtyard.
A traditional Japanese garden with a wooden porch, a tall tree, moss, stones, and greenery surrounding a house with sliding shoji doors.
Old black iron kettle on a wooden table in a traditional Japanese room with sliding paper doors.
A traditional Japanese stone water basin with a bamboo dipper and a wooden mallet resting on it, set outdoors with plants in the background.
Traditional Japanese-style house with an open sliding door leading into a tatami room, surrounded by a small garden with trees and rocks.
Traditional Japanese room with a kettle on a stove, shoji sliding door, tatami mat flooring, and wooden slat window.
Traditional Japanese room with tatami mats, sliding doors, and a low table in the background, illuminated by hanging ceiling lights.