Overview

Step into another time at Ryounkaku, a historic three-story wooden ryokan built in 1938 and now designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property of Japan. This nostalgic building reflects the elegance and craftsmanship of early Showa-era architecture. Surrounded by forests and quiet hillsides, it offers a rare chance to experience traditional Japan in a peaceful setting.

As you explore the hallways, you’ll feel the charm of warm wood, handcrafted details, and a gentle retro atmosphere. Take a deep breath, slow down, and let yourself enjoy a place where time moves differently.

Accommodation

Ryounkaku offers 17 guest rooms, each filled with character and history. In the main building, every room was designed by a skilled miyadaiku (temple carpenter) who added personal creativity and style. You’ll find ceilings shaped like umbrellas, playful decorative windows, carved transoms, and even entryways paved with smooth black pebbles.

Room Types:

• Main Building – 14 Japanese-Style Rooms: Each room features unique handcrafted elements
• Annex – 2 Japanese-Style Rooms and 1 Western-Style Room: Located in a reinforced concrete structure, these rooms include private bath and toilet (non-onsen)

Room Features:

• Air conditioning, refrigerator, TV, safe
• Yukata, padded coat, traditional socks
• Toothbrush, towels, razor, hairdryer

Note: Toilets and washrooms for the main building are located centrally on the second and third floors. A small elevator is available for access.

Dining

Ryounkaku celebrates the natural gifts of the region with meals that reflect the seasons of Niigata. In spring, you’ll taste mountain vegetables made sweeter by the long, snowy winters. In autumn, wild mushrooms take center stage. Every ingredient is chosen locally, prepared simply, and served with deep respect for tradition.

• Carefully cooked mountain vegetables in spring
• Wild mushrooms and local herbs in fall
• Dishes that highlight the natural flavor of seasonal produce
• Hearty and rustic recipes rooted in regional cooking traditions

Each dish invites you to experience the mountain’s changing rhythm and the cultural richness of Matsunoyama.

Onsen and Wellness

Ryounkaku is home to Kagami no Yu, one of the most famous therapeutic hot springs in the Matsunoyama region. Known for its soft green color, this bath is rich in minerals that warm your body deeply and leave your skin feeling refreshed.

About the Spring:

• Contains about 15 times the standard concentration of minerals for onsen water
• High sodium content helps retain heat and prevent chills
• Natural compounds like metaboric acid and metasilicic acid promote skin health and healing

Bath Options:

• Large Public Bath and Medium Bath: Men’s and women’s hours alternate
• Family Bath (Private Use): Lockable and free to use, no reservation needed

Amenities Available:

• Razor, shower cap, rinse, shampoo, body soap, cotton swabs
• Hairdryer and onsen face mist for after-bath care

The Legend of Kagami no Yu:

The name “Kagami no Yu” comes from a local tale, the Legend of Kagami-ga-Ike. A girl named Kyoko, mistreated by her stepmother, visited a quiet pond with her late mother’s mirror. As she looked into the water, she thought she saw her mother’s reflection and called out in despair. In truth, she was seeing her own tear-streaked face. Heartbroken, she threw herself into the pond. Ever since, the pond has been called Kagami-ga-Ike, and the hot spring draws its name and gentle spirit from this story.

Guests with Tattoos

You are welcome to enjoy the baths. If you prefer more privacy, you can use the family bath, which locks from the inside and does not require a reservation.

Facilities

Ryounkaku blends its historical charm with thoughtful modern touches:

• Lobby: A calm reading space with books and newspapers
• Lounge: Large windows offer views of the surrounding forest and fresh mountain air
• Shop: Find specialty products from Tokamachi, ideal for souvenirs or personal keepsakes
• Private Shuttle: Complimentary pickup from Matsudai Station (reservation required)
• Elevator: A compact lift in the main building provides added accessibility

Additional Features

• Total Rooms: 17
• Capacity: Up to 80 people
• Check-in / Check-out: From 15:00 to 18:00 / 9:00 to 10:00
• Parking: Available on-site
• Credit Cards: Accepted
• Pets: Not allowed