Where Nature, Culture, and Daily Life Converge

Near the confluence of the Kamo and Takano Rivers lies the Kamo River Delta — a place deeply cherished by Kyoto residents. Surrounded by open skies and seasonal beauty, it offers a rare sense of calm within the city.

This property is located just a short distance from the delta, approximately a 7-minute walk from Demachiyanagi Station. Tucked away on a quiet lane off Imadegawa Street, at the western foot of Yoshida Hill, the residence stands with a quiet yet commanding presence.

Formerly known as “Ryozanpaku,” a Michelin two-star Kyoto cuisine restaurant, the property has long been a gathering place for cultural figures and discerning guests.

A Vision Realized Through Craftsmanship and Time

Completed in 1993, this building was conceived as a place where people could come together and feel at ease.

The realization of this vision took nearly a decade, beginning with the search for a master builder capable of bringing it to life. A chance encounter in Yoshino — while sourcing high-quality timber — led to the collaboration that ultimately shaped this residence.

The result is a structure built with exceptional care by skilled artisans, reflecting both intention and craftsmanship.

Architectural Presence and Spatial Quality

The building is currently configured with a commercial space on the first floor, a private residential area on the second floor, and an event hall in the basement.

A lush garden welcomes visitors at the entrance, leading into an interior defined by remarkable architectural features. A massive central pillar made from knot-free Japanese cypress and a high coffered ceiling create a sense of openness and scale rarely found in traditional wooden structures.

To achieve large, unobstructed interior spaces, the structure incorporates a reinforced column system inspired by torii gate construction, combining structural integrity with architectural expression.

Materials have been carefully selected throughout, including ancient cedar (Jindai-sugi) used for interior doors, traditional karakami paper on sliding panels, and tatami flooring that softly reflects natural light.

Private rooms equipped with sunken hearths (horigotatsu) and tea ceremony-style elements offer flexible use for dining, gatherings, or cultural experiences.

Basement Hall and Structural Integrity

The basement level includes a hall capable of accommodating approximately 50 guests, suitable for events or private functions.

A light-filled subterranean garden has been designed to bring natural elements into the lower level, featuring large stones carefully placed using traditional manual techniques.

The foundation is reinforced with approximately 7 meters of concrete beneath the structure, providing strong resistance to seismic movement.

Current Use and Future Potential

The property is no longer operated as a traditional restaurant and is currently used as a relaxed bar space.

With its unique layout and architectural character, the property offers multiple possibilities, including:

• Restaurant or hospitality venue
• Cultural or event space
• Private residence or second home

A Property to Be Carried Forward

This is a rare opportunity to acquire a property shaped by craftsmanship, history, and shared human experience.

It is ideally suited for a buyer who recognizes the value of Kyoto’s architectural heritage and seeks to carry it forward into the future.