[Experience authentic Japanese townhouse living in a 155-year-old former kimono shop] Located in the historic center of Shibata, this accommodation offers a rare opportunity to stay in a traditional Japanese merchant house built approximately 155 years ago. Originally a kimono shop serving the local community, the building has been carefully restored while preserving its history, craftsmanship, and architectural charm. Guests can experience the atmosphere of an old Japanese townhouse with modern comfort. This plan offers private use of the entire second floor of the main house, featuring three spacious rooms. Two rooms preserve the traditional Japanese-style atmosphere of the Taisho period (1912–1926), while the third room combines historic elements with contemporary comfort, featuring newly designed flooring and walls while retaining the original sliding doors. The rooms preserve unique details such as historic glass windows and traditional craftsmanship. The Japanese-style rooms feature walls restored by a skilled Japanese plaster craftsman using natural materials, maintaining the beauty and texture of traditional interiors. The shared facilities combine Japanese aesthetics

ISEZI Social Design Project creates meaningful stays that connect travelers with the culture, history, and people of Shibata while bringing historic buildings into the future. We carefully restore traditional Japanese townhouses and merchant houses, preserving their original character while adding modern comfort. Our goal is not simply to provide accommodation, but to create a place where guests can experience the history, craftsmanship, and everyday culture of the region. After spending 18 years living in Paris, I have developed a perspective that combines the appreciation of traditional Japanese architecture and craftsmanship with contemporary ways of living. Through ISEZI, we aim to create spaces where guests can discover the beauty of Japanese traditions, connect with the local community, and take home memories of a place that goes beyond a simple visit. We hope your stay will become a meaningful journey — one where you do not just pass through Shibata, but feel a connection with its history, people, and culture.

[Explore Shibata’s historic castle town as if you lived there] ISEZI is located in the heart of Shibata City, Niigata Prefecture, a historic castle town where Japanese culture, commerce, and craftsmanship have developed over generations. The area around the accommodation was once a lively center of merchants and craftsmen, with kimono shops and traditional businesses lining the streets. Today, the town continues to preserve its unique character through historic buildings, local shops, restaurants, temples, gardens, and breweries. Our accommodation is located in the center of the old town, allowing guests to experience Shibata not only as a sightseeing destination, but as a place where people still live their daily lives. A covered shopping street connects the station area to the inn, making it comfortable to explore on foot even on rainy days. Within walking distance, guests can discover local food culture, traditional Japanese sweets, coffee shops, and small stores loved by residents. The nearby streets offer opportunities to experience the quiet charm of a Japanese town beyond the usual tourist routes. Shibata is also known for its historic attractions, including sake brewer