Inside Le Labo’s Kyoto Machiya

When we were in Kyoto we had to stop by Le Labo’s newest store–a traditional Machiya fully restored to perfection. In Kyoto’s Shimokorikicho, Nakagyo-ku neighbourhood the traditional Japanese Townhouse blends wabi-sabi with the art of slow perfumery. The building, which dates back to 1879 and was once a sake brewery, is an ode to Japanese heritage and craftsmanship.

The are so many stunning elements like Japanese reclaimed wood, traditional notebooks, flowing noren curtains, and stunningly worn walls. Head to the back of the machiya to the onsite café tucked in the house’s original garden and order a matcha. You can sit and sip it in the dreamy, peaceful zen garden. It’s a peaceful retreat with a fountain, statues, and native plants.

Le Labo Kyoto Machiya is at 604-8016 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Shimokorikicho, 2-206. 10am to 7pm.