What are the Differences in Layout Between Kyo-machiya and Samurai Residences? Features, History, and Modern Uses

Kyo-machiya and samurai residences are architectural styles that symbolize traditional Japanese residential culture, but their layouts and structures differ significantly due to their respective origins and purposes. Kyo-machiya developed as merchant residences and shops, incorporating ingenious ways to make the most of limited space. On the other hand, samurai residences were designed to emphasize the status and rank of the samurai class.

In this article, we will explain in detail the differences in layout between Kyo-machiya and samurai residences, along with their historical and structural features, and introduce their modern uses.

1. What are the Basic Differences Between Kyo-machiya and Samurai Residences?

First, let's organize the differences in layout and architectural styles between Kyo-machiya and samurai residences.

Kyo-machiya is characterized by a layout that balances commercial activities and living spaces. In contrast, samurai residences have layouts that reflect the status and rank of the samurai.

2. Layout and Features of Kyo-machiya | Why They are Called

Kyo-machiya is an architectural style adapted to the streetscape of Kyoto, the commercial center. It incorporates ingenious ways to make the most of limited land.

① Structure and Layout of Kyo-machiya

Characterized by long, narrow plots of land called "eel beds."
The frontage (width facing the main street) is narrow, and the depth is long.
This design was created to reduce tax burdens, considering the "frontage tax" (tax amount determined by the width of the building's frontage) during the Edo period.

② Coexistence of Shop and Residence

• The front of a Kyo-machiya is a shop space called "mise no ma," with the residential area located at the back.
• A dirt floor area called "tori-niwa" extends to the back of the building, connecting the shop, kitchen, and garden.

③ Courtyards and Light Management

• "Tsubo-niwa" (small courtyards) are installed for lighting and ventilation, allowing light to reach the entire building.
• "Nakaniwa" (inner courtyards) and "uraniwa" (back courtyards) are also set up, creating spaces that harmonize with nature.

3. Layout and Features of Samurai Residences | Emphasis on Status

Samurai residences were built to reflect the status and rank of the samurai, with clear divisions in their layout.

① Structure and Layout of Samurai Residences

• High-ranking samurai (daimyo residences): These had large plots with gates and gardens, and included guest rooms, study rooms, family living quarters, and rooms for retainers.
• Middle and lower-ranking samurai residences: Located in castle towns, these were modest but maintained a dignified layout.

② Main Layout Components

• Entrance: The higher the samurai's rank, the more formal the entrance.
• Reception Room: A room for receiving guests, equipped with a tokonoma (alcove) and staggered shelves.
• Inner Room: Used as the family's living quarters, with separate spaces for the family and retainers.
• Garden: Often large to reflect status, surrounded by walls or earthen mounds.

③ Security Features of Samurai Residences

• "Curved paths" were designed to prevent enemy intrusion.
• Features like "nagamamon" (longhouse gates) and "musha-mado" (warrior windows) were included for defense.

4. Specific Comparison of Layout Differences Between Kyo-machiya and Samurai Residences

Specific Comparison of Layout Differences Between Kyo-machiya and Samurai Residences
Traditional Japanese houses include Kyo-machiya, where merchants lived, and samurai residences, where samurai lived. The layouts of these houses reflect differences in lifestyle and social roles. Here are the features explained:
1. Purpose Differences
• Kyo-machiya: Houses that combine business and living, with the shop and residence integrated.
• Samurai Residences: Houses that demonstrate the status and rank of samurai, with consideration for defense functions.
2. Plot Shape Differences
• Kyo-machiya: Typically have a narrow frontage (width facing the street) and long depth, known as "eel beds."
• Samurai Residences: Have large plots with buildings arranged around a courtyard.
3. Entrance Differences
• Kyo-machiya: Have simple entrances for business purposes.
• Samurai Residences: Have grand gates and entrances to demonstrate status.
4. Differences in Front Rooms (Rooms Facing Outward)
• Kyo-machiya: The area near the entrance is used as a shop space.
• Samurai Residences: Have formal rooms for receiving guests, equipped with tokonoma (alcoves) and tatami layouts.
5. Differences in Living Areas
• Kyo-machiya: The family's living area is located at the back of the shop, integrating business and living.
• Samurai Residences: Often have separate living areas for the family and retainers (servants).
6. Garden Differences
• Kyo-machiya: Even on narrow plots, they have small gardens called "tsubo-niwa" for lighting and ventilation.
• Samurai Residences: Have spacious gardens to demonstrate status and defense, with stone walls and plantings.
7. Security Function Differences
• Kyo-machiya: Are open for business and do not have specific security functions.
• Samurai Residences: Have gates, walls, and curved paths to prevent intruders.

Summary
Kyo-machiya have rational layouts for combining business and living, while samurai residences are designed with the status and defense needs of samurai in mind. Understanding these features deepens the appreciation of traditional Japanese architecture.

5. Modern Uses of Remaining Kyo-machiya and Samurai Residences

① Renovation of Kyo-machiya

• Increasingly repurposed as guesthouses, cafes, and shops.
• Retrofitted with earthquake resistance and insulation improvements to suit modern living.

② Tourism Utilization of Samurai Residences

• Samurai residences in castle towns are open as historical museums and tourist facilities.
• Samurai residences with gardens are used as luxury inns and restaurants.

Summary | Differences in Layout Between Kyo-machiya and Samurai Residences and Their Backgrounds

• Kyo-machiya: Have a narrow, elongated design called "eel beds," combining business and living spaces.
• Samurai Residences: Emphasize status and security, with strict divisions within the residence.
• Modern Use: Both Kyo-machiya and samurai residences are preserved and utilized as tourist and commercial facilities.
When visiting historical architecture, being aware of the layout features of each can lead to a deeper understanding of Japanese residential culture.