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Ajiki Alley is The Must-Visit Area in Kyoto That's Hidden Among Ancient Homes

Ajiki Alley is The Must-Visit Area in Kyoto That's Hidden Among Ancient Homes

Last updated: 31 August 2020

Ajiki Alley is a hidden area in Kyoto that's become popular on Instagram - yet it's often left out of guidebooks.

The Kyoto word “roji,” (路地, in Kanji) which means “alley” and refers to the narrow space between houses at the end of the main streets. With redevelopment progressing in the ancient capital of Kyoto due to the increase of tourism, areas like these alleys where the quaint townscapes of old remain are a valuable existence.

I heard about a particular area where young artists’ atelier shops are aligned amongst these nostalgic alleyways and have come to see for myself!

Table of Contents
  1. Ajiki Alley was Established to Support Young Artists
  2. Suzume-ya: The One and Only Notebook and Paper Shop for Bookbinding Artists
  3. Camera and Design Classroom torico.camera: Study the Fun of Photography
  4. Oriya Marikiko: Cute Japanese Goods Shop
  5. evo-see: A Reasonably Priced, Order-Made Hat Shop
  6. MATSUSHIMA leather handmade: Diligently Crafted Leather Accessories, with Full Orders Also Available

This area is approximately three minutes on foot from Kiyomizu-Gojo Station on the Keihin Main Line. If you walk in the direction of the Daikoku-yu Public Bath’s chimney, you will come to a narrow alleyway between the houses: Ajiki Alley.

The large chimney is a landmark. The entrance to Ajiki Alley is on the right side of the public bath Daikoku-yu (rear right of photo)
The large chimney is a landmark. The entrance to Ajiki Alley is on the right side of the public bath Daikoku-yu (rear right of photo)

There is a signboard with the name “Ajiki-roji” written, and a resident map at the entrance. The townhouse tenements built over 120 years ago line the way along a narrow alley of only 1.8 meters in width, where young artists work on their creations in workshops, which also function as their dwelling place.

There are a total of 14 tenement houses, nine of which are inhabited and one which is leased (as of March 2019).

A resident map at the entrance of Ajiki Alley. The row houses are lined from north to south across the alley.
A resident map at the entrance of Ajiki Alley. The row houses are lined from north to south across the alley.

The landlord of the buildings is Mrs. Hiroko Ajiki, though it might be more appropriate to call her “mother.” This is because her presence here is said to be like a mother who watches over and supports the growth of the artists. Whenever she calls out to them, you are sure to hear them respond, “Yes, mother.”

Mrs. Ajiki, who lovingly watches over the artists in their daily lives
Mrs. Ajiki, who lovingly watches over the artists in their daily lives

Ajiki Alley was Established to Support Young Artists

Actually, Ajiki Alley itself has not been around since ancient times. It was only in 2004 that they started recruiting young artists as tenants. The reason for this was that Mrs. Ajiki, who designed cloisonné wares and metal engraving as a hobby, married and started a family.

Eventually, she resolved to “entrust the dreams I gave up of becoming an artist to the next generation.” It was then that she decided to rent out the alley row houses, which has been owned since her ancestors, to young aspiring artists.

A nostalgic spot for anyone stopping by
A nostalgic spot for anyone stopping by

Here are some of the atelier shops created by a cozy community in which everyone is regarded as family.

Suzume-ya: The One and Only Notebook and Paper Shop for Bookbinding Artists

Suzume-ya was established here in April 2018, and has been open every weekday from noon till sunset ever since. On weekends and holidays, they open before noon. The owner of this notebook and paper accessory shop is Kana Muramatsu, who studied architecture at an art university, and is currently active as a bookbinding artist.

The third house north of the alley. A cute and simple sign, just like the sparrow that decorates it
The third house north of the alley. A cute and simple sign, just like the sparrow that decorates it

“I found my passion for bookbinding during a break from university, where I swore to quit school if I could not find a way to support myself through my art,” says Muramatsu.

But why bookbinding? “The job of an architect is to create a space where people can coexist, creating their stories in the daily landscape of their lives. I realized that notebooks share a similar purpose, and I took some white paper, bound it together myself, thinking ‘This will be the book where my own story begins.’”

Shop owner, Ms. Muramatsu
Shop owner, Ms. Muramatsu
When you take off your shoes and enter the shop, you will be greeted with handmade notebooks and small paper accessories lining the shelves before your eyes
When you take off your shoes and enter the shop, you will be greeted with handmade notebooks and small paper accessories lining the shelves before your eyes

“Suzume Stamp,” the shop’s name, and also their standard design.

A cute sparrow to soothe your soul~ “Suzume Stamp” (one color available, 1,780 yen, tax not included)
A cute sparrow to soothe your soul~ “Suzume Stamp” (one color available, 1,780 yen, tax not included)

There are an additional 12 types of notebooks, including the palm-sized “Nijimi” series, an artistic design with a modern pattern also recommended by Ms. Muramatsu.

All patterns are also handmade by Ms. Muramatsu. This one is called “Nijimi Akogare no Hito (Beloved Person)” (2,000 yen, tax not included). The titles all come from the words imagined when creating the design, and each individual item is unique.
All patterns are also handmade by Ms. Muramatsu. This one is called “Nijimi Akogare no Hito (Beloved Person)” (2,000 yen, tax not included). The titles all come from the words imagined when creating the design, and each individual item is unique.

Ms. Muramatsu’s notebook production process begins with paper selection and folding. The reason why she does not neglect the tremendous amount of work involved to align the pages and cut them one by one with a paper cutter, and pays particular attention to the smallest of details, is because she wants each item to show proof of her handiwork.

The bookbinding is also done manually, page by page, without the help of any machine. “I want to regard each person who buys a book from me as special, which is why I want to make my books ‘only for that one person,’” she says. Her notebooks are simple, yet offer freedom of usability.

Ms. Muramatsu cuts sheets of paper one by one with a cutter
Ms. Muramatsu cuts sheets of paper one by one with a cutter

I would like to spend more time in this quiet shop, and learn more about Ms. Muramatsu’s world views.

  • Suzume-ya
    すずめや
    • Address 3-Kita, 284 Yamashiro-cho, Daikokuchodori Matsubara Sagaru 2-Chome, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
    • Business Hours: Weekends/Holidays: 11:00AM~6:00PM; Open Weekdays (Please check website for details)
      Fixed Holidays: None (Check website for information on closings)

Camera and Design Classroom torico.camera: Study the Fun of Photography

Opposite from Suzume-ya is a photography class lead by Shina Matsumura, a professional photographer who is active in magazines and books in the Kansai Area. She runs her shop in Ajiki Alley while commuting from her hometown of Kawanishi City, Hyogo Prefecture.

Stylish signboard in front of the shop. It makes me feel that I, too, can learn how to take great photos
Stylish signboard in front of the shop. It makes me feel that I, too, can learn how to take great photos

There are currently three camera classes available, from beginner to semi-pro, including “Photography Lovers’ Class” and “First-time Photographers Class.”

There is also a “Digital Drawing Class” which specializes in design production, and “Gallery Ajiki Class,” where you learn how to display your work in a gallery (each class held once monthly, limited to 3~5 people). A total of 27 students attended in 2018, and some 2019 courses are already full.

The secret to Ms. Shina’s popularity is holding small classes with few people so she can fully and easily provide individual attention.

Courses are held at the table in the front. The back is the studio booth.
Courses are held at the table in the front. The back is the studio booth.

Ms. Matsumura, who used to rent space in Ajiki Alley to hold occasional lectures, gained interest in this area when she had an opportunity to shoot for a book, “Life in Ajiki Alley.”

As the classrooms filled up, Ms. Matsumura began to feel the strong urge to establish a regular classroom, and with a newfound passion to use this place as a starting point to do her best work, she made the decision in May 2017 to rent as a tenant.

Class Instructor Ms. Shina Matsumura. With her bright personality and solid photography skills, her classes are very popular
Class Instructor Ms. Shina Matsumura. With her bright personality and solid photography skills, her classes are very popular

As for what made her want to begin a photography class, Ms. Matsumura replies, “I am not very good at speaking, so I want to share my thoughts through photography and design. I would like to share that fun with lots of other people, too.”

A fun and relaxing time shooting photography with friends
A fun and relaxing time shooting photography with friends

During the time of my visit, Ms. Matsumura’s class was full of students and had a comfortable and friendly atmosphere. If you are interested in photography and design, I recommend you give it a try as well! As it is a one-time class and scheduled irregularly, please check the homepage, “Maimai Kyoto,” for details.

  • Camera and Design Classroom torico.camera
    カメラとデザインの教室torico.camera
    • Address 1-Minami, 284 Yamashiro-cho, Daikokuchodori Matsubara Sagaru 2-Chome, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
    • Business Hours: Varies by course
      Regular Holidays: None
      *Each class is held once per month. Please check website for details.

Oriya Marikiko: Cute Japanese Goods Shop

Next to Camera and Design Classroom torico.camera, is Oriya Marikiko, open every third Saturday and Sunday. The shop is run by “The Tsudzure-ori Craftswoman,” Ishikawa Mari and Okamoto Makiko, who use a special technique in which their fingernails are serrated like a saw and used to weave cloth. The tenants of this particular row house change depending on the day of the week.

Established in October 2008. A veteran shop of Ajiki Alley.
Established in October 2008. A veteran shop of Ajiki Alley.

The store name is derived from the combined names of the shop owners, Mari and Makiko. They sell handmade items made using a tsudzu-ori, or tapestry weaving, technique.

Ms. Ishikawa (left), and Ms. Okamoto
Ms. Ishikawa (left), and Ms. Okamoto

There are many daily necessity items, such as Japanese zori sandals with beautiful tsudzure-ori straps, obi sashes, bags, pouches, and tissue cases. Most small accessories are sold for around 700 yen.

Because all items are handmade, there are subtle variations, even amongst the same patterns. It’s fun just looking at them!
Because all items are handmade, there are subtle variations, even amongst the same patterns. It’s fun just looking at them!
“Fish Obi Fastener” A unique item that even uses wool (2,315 yen, tax not included)
“Fish Obi Fastener” A unique item that even uses wool (2,315 yen, tax not included)

The process begins by preparing a silk thread that is thick enough to get caught in the fingernails, a special technique that takes time to master. The highly artistic fabrics that are woven through much time and effort are known as luxury goods.

Though the aging of skilled craftspeople of this technique has progressed, it seems that recently there has also been an increase in younger generations wanting to become weavers, such as the two young ladies here.

Ms. Mari’s serrated fingernails. This is how she draws the silk thread for weaving.
Ms. Mari’s serrated fingernails. This is how she draws the silk thread for weaving.

“I consciously try to create new combinations of colors and materials that are different from the traditional works of veteran craftsmen,” says Mari.

Works that include original color patterns and items where one part is wool bring a sense of youth and newness to traditional techniques. The opportunity to interact with such craftspeople directly is a valuable experience.

Even if you simply ask about their tsudzure-ori weaving technique, it is sure to be a time well spent.

  • Oriya Marikiko
    織家まりきこ
    • Address 2-Minami, 284 Yamashiro-cho, Daikokuchodori Matsubara Sagaru 2-Chome, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
    • Phone Number 080-6142-5261
    • Business Days/Hours: Every third Saturday & Sunday 11:00AM~6:00PM

evo-see: A Reasonably Priced, Order-Made Hat Shop

Hat shop evo-see was established by Mr. Kenji Kato, an experienced tailor who wanted “a hat that suits my own head.” It has been opened every week on Saturday and Sunday since moving here in May 2009 (all other days open by request only).

Right across from Oriya Marikiko is the shop marked with a black hat signboard
Right across from Oriya Marikiko is the shop marked with a black hat signboard

The shop offers two options: Full Order (from 30,000 yen) and Semi-Order (from 15,000~30,000 yen). Samples decorate the inside of the shop.

Recommended Semi-Order “Ribbon Beret” (15,000 yen plus tax) *Of course, you can have the size adjusted, as well as choose the inner and outer fabric
Recommended Semi-Order “Ribbon Beret” (15,000 yen plus tax) *Of course, you can have the size adjusted, as well as choose the inner and outer fabric
There are unisex items, and it can be fun to visit as a couple
There are unisex items, and it can be fun to visit as a couple

For a Semi-Order, pick your favorite sample and order the fabric. For a Full Order, you will be able to have a special mold made to fit your exact head size. Both orders take around 4 months to complete (production times may vary depending on number of orders received).

You can even have a hat made of your own custom designed using your own sketches and photos.

You can choose from over 100 types of fabrics for both orders. If you have trouble deciding, Mr. Kato will happily advise you.
You can choose from over 100 types of fabrics for both orders. If you have trouble deciding, Mr. Kato will happily advise you.

Mr. Kato puts the most effort into making the patterns so that it will look most beautiful when worn. However, it is not enough just to make it from a paper pattern. “I like to make the brim slightly fall, so that it creates a draped silhouette when worn,” he says.

A specially crafted hat with particular attention to detail is easy to wear, regardless of age. Why not try ordering one for yourself?

Mr. Kenji Kato, working in a calm and peaceful atmosphere
Mr. Kenji Kato, working in a calm and peaceful atmosphere
  • evo-see
    evo-see
    • Address 4-Kita, 284 Yamashiro-cho, Daikokuchodori Matsubara Sagaru 2-Chome, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
    • Phone Number 075-708-6480
    • Business Hours: 12:00PM~7:00PM
      Regular Holiday: Mon~Fri (Open by request only)

MATSUSHIMA leather handmade: Diligently Crafted Leather Accessories, with Full Orders Also Available

The last shop I visited was located three houses down from evo-see, Matsushima Leather Handmade. Shopkeeper Kenji Matsushima, with a dexterous hand and a love for leather goods, started leather crafting on holidays while working as a company employee in another industry.

He picked up the skill through his own study, and left his company job to start his own business in 2015. He opened this shop in 2017, and began selling his goods online and in craft cities.

Various items are available, from small accessories such as wallets to handbags
Various items are available, from small accessories such as wallets to handbags

The items lining the store are semi-order products, of which you can choose the leather and thread to your liking. You can even request small changes in design such as the item specifications. Full orders are also available (upon request).

Smartphone Cases are from 9,000 yen (tax not included)
Smartphone Cases are from 9,000 yen (tax not included)

Mr. Matsushima’s specialty is “hand-crafted items of high-quality materials, both domestic and abroad.” He purchases leather from prestigious tanner super-brands such as Germany’s Perlinger Leather and Italy’s Badalassi Carlo, as well as Japan’s Tochigi Leather.

He then hand-stitches each item for a final product that is both more durable and more beautiful than items sewed by machine.

Select your favorite color and texture, from standard dark tones to more vivid tones
Select your favorite color and texture, from standard dark tones to more vivid tones
Mr. Matsushima carefully sews by hand, one stitch at a time
Mr. Matsushima carefully sews by hand, one stitch at a time

These carefully hand-crafted works do not allow for compromise in details, such that even the cut surfaces are carefully polished, leaving an impression that I still remember. It is one of the few shops where you can see original leather goods, all crafted by a single individual.

  • MATSUSHIMA leather handmade
    MATSUSHIMA leather handmade
    • Address 8-Kita, 284 Yamashiro-cho, Daikokuchodori Matsubara Sagaru 2-Chome, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
    • Phone Number 070-4097-2375
    • Business Hours: 10:00AM~6:00PM
      Regular Holidays: Tuesdays, Sundays

Ajiki Alley is home to a variety of other boutiques, some of which are in pop-up stores. Please check the official website of "Ajiki Alley" for the latest information.

If you are tired of Kyoto's classic itinerary or are looking for carefully crafted souvenirs, you must visit them if you have the opportunity! But because there are regular residents living here, don’t forget to pay attention to etiquette.

  • Ajiki Alley
    あじき路地
    • Address 284 Yamashiro-cho, Daikokuchodori Matsubara Sagaru 2-Chome, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
    • Business Hours: Varies by shop
      Fixed Holidays: Varies by shop
      Website: http://www.ajikiroji.com/

*This information is from the time of this article's publication.
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.

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