Rankeisou

Perhaps we were expecting too much because of the good reviews, but the dinner speed was so fast! Though we ordered 2 beer and daiginjo sake, all dishes and dessert were served in only 50 minutes. As a long-established ryokan, it usually takes 2 to 2 and 1/2 hours to enjoy a meal, but this ryokan was like as fast as busy lunch restaurant. Some of the plates were factory made, the carp sashimi sauce was too spicy, and none of the dishes were reasonably hot, even the gratin was just slightly warm. We totally don't understand why this inn has such high reputation. The inn itself is old and well preserved, but not well cleaned. Stink bugs infestation may be unavoidable, but there were dead stink bugs in the hallway in front of my room from the time we checked in until the next morning. Dozens of them were also left in the toilets and hand washing area. We suppose this is endless to clean them but we must say that should be exterminated as soon as they are found. The waitress is a newcomer, but her service and explanation of meals were minimal only. Much improvement is needed to be a real good reputational Japanese inn.

Our stay at Rankeisou was absolutely soothing for our bodies and souls. If you’re looking to stay at a traditional ryokan that’s away from the chaos of a big city, eat delicious and nutritious meals, soak in beautiful outdoor onsens, and experience the kindest hospitality — look no further! You MUST stay here and I guarantee it will be a life-giving and special experience. It certainly was for us. The inn itself is nestled in nature and if you’re lucky to get a room by the riverside, you can hear the gentle flowing river. The grounds are well-kept and must be beautiful in all seasons. We came near the end of November, and even with overcast skies and fallen leaves, the ryokan was so picturesque. Indoors, you can see all the thoughtful touches such as fresh flowers, signs in calligraphy on traditional paper, and an amazing record collection + speakers. There are public onsens and also private onsens available by reservation once you arrive. We stayed two nights with the breakfast and dinner options and - wow - I can’t even begin to describe how delicious everything was. I do not eat raw fish but they were able to accommodate by replacing the sashimi with other options such as steamed shrimp and crab. Mountain vegetables galore, wagyu, river fish, grilled fish, soups with insane umami - all subtle but exquisite taste. Some of my favorites were things like pickled radish steeped in sweet vinegar with yuzu or the tempura chestnut — and these weren’t even the main dishes. Very satisfying and filling meals! But what makes Rankeisou stand out from all the places we have stayed, is the kindest hospitality from Yukari san, who spoke fluent English and was my first point of contact since making the reservation directly on the website. Yukari san went out of her way to help us out, and while I will spare you all the details, I will say this: she felt more like family than a stranger and I sincerely hope you all will get to meet her. She is amazing! All of the staff here have been kind to us despite us not speaking Japanese and I cannot express my gratitude enough. I am so thankful that we were able to experience the magic of Rankeisou. Our favorite ryokan! Some practical tips: 1. I highly recommend renting a car so you can explore the area at your leisure. You could visit the snow peak headquarters, the Suwada open factory, etc (the tsubame-sanjo area is know for their metalwork and various crafts! Perfect place to get one of a kind souvenirs) 2. If you’re going to take public transportation from Tokyo, get the JR east pass as you will get it’s worth by just making a round trip to Tsubamesanjo station. 3. The free ryokan shuttle service will take about 45 minutes to get from the station to the inn so when you are booking your trains, keep that in mind. Shuttle pick up time from the station is 2:45 pm. The morning shuttle leaves from the inn and 10 am. Plan accordingly!

We were recommend by a local and are glad we tried. Good- Beautiful old hotel in a beautiful setting Room is modern and comfortable (we stayed in Keiryukan, a newer part) 2 Private baths which you can see the river Meals are not overwhelming, but elegant and quality food Didn't like- We had meals in a Japanese style room where we have to sit in a tatami. Our legs were tired and didn't feel comfortable during the meal