You should begin your search in the Architecture Research Guide. There, you will find suggestions for places to search for your subject including the library catalog and full-text databases. Do not limit your searching to only the term "machiya" because you may find relevant information on works that are found under searching for terms such as "courtyard houses japan". Broaden your search by identifying other relevant terms for your topic.
You might start by looking in the catalog for a book by Kenneth Frampton on Japanese building practices. You wil also find information in JSTOR and in Avery Index to Architectural Periodicals.
If you do not have success, you may wish to meet with a librarian to get additional assistance. The library can also obtain materials through interlibrary loan.