Rankeiso

Rankei-so is an inn proud of the rich waters of Echigo-Nagano Onsen, abundant nature, and nourishing cuisine made with local ingredients. The “Ryokufukan” building used for guest rooms was registered as a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan in 2012. Rankei-so is also particular about water: it does not use municipal tap water—everything is spring water, and cooking is done with the same spring water. The soft, abundant water—underground water from the Ikarashi River— is used generously, and seasonal dishes that make the most of ingredients are popular. The hot spring is one of Japan’s richest “strong saline cold mineral springs,” and was once even used as medicine. This hot spring, historically used for therapeutic stays, is said to help with skin diseases, cuts, sensitivity to cold, women’s ailments, neuralgia, stiff shoulders, and more. Be sure to experience the unique, clinging sensation on the skin. Access: free shuttle bus about 50 minutes from Tsubame-Sanjo Station, about 30 minutes from Higashi-Sanjo Station; by car, about 40 minutes from Hokuriku Expressway “Sanjo-Tsubame I.C.” It’s also nice to come from Kan-etsu Expressway “Koide I.C.” and stop by “Tochio Roadside Station” along the way.