Compact and Convenient Apartment in Kyoto's Prestigious Left Bank
This compact 1K apartment offers an affordable entry point into the prestigious and culturally rich Sakyo Ward of Kyoto. Situated along the Shirakawa Suido street, the property is within walking distance of Kyoto University, making it particularly appealing to students and academics. The apartment is located on the 1st floor of a 2-story wooden building constructed in December 1976, with a private floor area of 16.43 sqm (approximately 4.97 tsubo).
Key features of the property include a separate bathroom and toilet, a gas stove hookup, a designated space for a washing machine, and a free bicycle parking area. The unit is on the top floor of the building and uses city gas for cooking and hot water. Important notes from the agent specify that the lighting fixtures and air conditioning unit are considered fixtures and will remain. The apartment is strictly for single occupancy, with two-person cohabitation and pets not permitted. A renewal administration fee of 10,000 JPY (excluding tax) is required every two years.
The monthly running costs are clearly outlined: a rent of 27,000 JPY, a common area maintenance fee of 2,000 JPY, and a mandatory trouble support fee of 1,100 JPY. There is no security deposit (敷金) or key money (礼金). Initial move-in costs include a house cleaning fee of 19,800 JPY at the time of contract signing. Tenants are required to join a rental guarantee program, with options from Nippon Safety or GTN for international students, each involving initial and monthly fees. A non-life insurance policy, costing approximately 16,000 JPY for two years, is also mandatory.
The surrounding area of Kitashirakawa is known for its quiet, academic atmosphere and proximity to nature. An interesting local fact is that the nearby Shirakawa Canal (白川疎水), which the apartment's street runs alongside, was constructed in the Meiji period to generate hydroelectric power, contributing to Kyoto's early modernization. The closest major tourist attraction is the iconic Ginkaku-ji Temple, the Silver Pavilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its beautiful sand garden and moss garden, located just a short distance away.
