Wazuka, a famous Uji tea production area located in southern Kyoto, has been the largest producer of Uji tea since the beginning of the Kamakura Period, over 800 years ago. It is also known as “Chagenkyo” (“home origin of tea”) due to its beautiful scenery of tea fields that cover the entire town. While Wazuka is increasingly gaining attention from travelers as a tourist destination, the town’s wonderful history and scenery still remain unknown to many.

At the entrance of the alleyway leading to Kiraku Kyoto Honmachi is Kissako Wazuka, a Japanese tea café serving Wazuka tea and sweets. The café owner, originally from Wazuka, had hopes for a facility that can educate more people about the charms of the town – and from this concept, Kiraku Kyoto Honmachi was born. It was a joint project between Kiraku, Nazuna Co., Ltd. as operating partner, and NOMURA Co., Ltd., as spatial designer, that was fully funded through a real estate crowdfunding campaign.

The concept of the villa is “Road to WAZUKA” – a place that will inspire a visit to the beautiful town of Wazuka. Renovated from an over 50-year-old Kyomachiya (traditional Kyoto townhouse), the facility also allows guests to experience Japanese culture and encounter the charms of Kyoto.

As you enter Kiraku Kyoto Honmachi and pass through the earthen floor, you will be faced with a unique bedroom set amidst an indoor Japanese rock garden. The garden and large rock artwork is inspired by the scenery of the Ishidera Tea Fields, and guests can feel as if they are lying on the grounds of Wazuka. Up the stairs is a lounge area featuring a transparent floor, where guests may have the unique experience of enjoying an indoor rock garden from above, while indulging in a cup of Wazuka green tea. Outside, guests may enjoy the private, outdoor garden while relaxing in an open-air bath.