Japanese Traditional Neighborhood

Α typical Japanese neighborhood called Machiya was my inspiration. This is my second Lego ideas modular project and it consists of two, two story traditional Japanese buildings and a common little garden. (Please do check my first Japanese modular building submission Way of the Sword!)

Both buildings were based on several houses and shops I researched and then combined basic elements I found in typical Japanese architecture mostly found in Kyoto, Japan.

Description: Japanese Fish shop & Tea House

Both buildings come apart and they consist of a ground floor and a first floor each. It is made from exactly 3000 Lego bricks and 4 minifigures are included in the count.

Historically in Japan, houses were long and narrow in order to avoid a form of taxation and sometimes they shared a common entrance and a small garden. So to this end I made a Main middle entrance, by entering through the door one can access both buildings.

On the right is the Tea House. The sign says Ichimoku-an, One Tree Hut. On the ground floor one can appreciate a tea ceremony with the company of a Geisha. On the rear of the house a traditional non-floored kitchen and stove is located.

The first floor is accessible by a cupboard/stairs called Tansu chest. A traditional bed is placed on the floor which is a typical tatami. The room has a very Japanese structure and has access to a balcony. On the back a beautiful bonsai tree is placed on top of a table. A a little Maiko is dawdling over a circular window called the Window of Enlightenment.

On the left is the Fish Shop. The sign says Shira-uo, Japanese Icefish. The vendor will help you chose the best fish to make sushi. The shop also has an interior shop where the owner sells sake. On the rear of the house another traditional non-floored kitchen and smaller stove is located. A Ladder leads to the first floor. The room is quite small and is furnished with the vary basic such as a bed and a small plant.

Finally the roofing is made to resemble the traditional grey roofing found throughout Japan.