While the bathroom on our cover might have very au courant vibes, it is found inside a Brooklyn town house ... to preserve their century-old machiya, a traditional Japanese residence type.

We explore Machiya, a town in northeastern Tokyo known for its artisanal spirit. Along the way we visit traditional workshops, meet local craftspeople and learn about the area's history.

The Kyoto cityscape is dotted with historic Buddhist temples, traditional Machiya townhouses, and Ryokan inns. Cleaning is vital for their longevity and appearance, but it is more than the act of ...