A peaceful time was passing by.Izu Nagaoka Onsen Sanyo-soOur stay at [Hotel Name] is finally coming to an end. Before checking out, we stopped by "Lounge Aoi." Like the new building, this building was also designed by architect Togo Murano, and it is a space that strongly reflects his architectural philosophy.
"Lounge Aoi" features a lounge, shop, and boutique, and is open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last order at 4:30 PM).
The distinctive circular building, rather than a rigid space composed of straight lines, features a design that incorporates soft curves and a sense of depth. From the high ceilings and the absence of columns to the evenly spaced windows, meticulous attention to detail has been paid to providing visitors with a natural sense of peace and tranquility.
At the adjoining shop, you can enjoy choosing souvenirs to take home as mementos of your trip.
I picked up several souvenirs while the shop assistant recommended some popular items. Choosing local products like this is one of the joys of traveling.
What catches the eye are the products related to authentic wasabi, a specialty of Izu-Amagi. From the "Haganezame" (Steel Shark) grater specifically for wasabi, to wasabi soap and seasonings, there is a wide selection of products that utilize this unique local ingredient. Furthermore, there are also healthy sweets such as natural yeast candies and propolis candies, and the slightly more adult-oriented selection of items reflects the refined taste characteristic of Sanyoso.
When asked about their most popular products, they mentioned items made with "Sennen Ida Salt," a natural sea salt produced by slowly boiling down seawater from Izu, which boasts the highest transparency in Japan, using natural firewood. Among these, "Imo Karinto" (sweet potato snack) and "Shio Kombu" (salted kelp) are particularly popular. For those with a sweet tooth, "Imo Karinto" is a favorite. Made with domestically produced sweet potatoes and sugar, the natural sweetness is enhanced by the umami of Sennen Ida Salt, creating a sweet and salty flavor that is addictive and perfect with tea. For those who prefer salty foods, "Shio Kombu" (salted kelp) made with the mellow Sennen Ida Salt, which is produced over a long period of time, is recommended. Made with carefully cooked kelp from Hokkaido, it has a gentle saltiness and umami that combine to create a deeply flavorful taste.
I brought back some souvenirs for my friends and some memories from my trip, which I will upload later in a Reels video.
Furthermore, when I peeked into the boutique "NOUBEAU" attached to the shop, I unexpectedly came across a one-of-a-kind dress.
I was drawn to the cute pattern of the dress and couldn't resist picking it up. This chance encounter during my travels has also become an unforgettable memory.
We checked out at the front desk in the new building. At Seibu Prince Hotels & Resorts, which operates Sanyo-so, you can earn SEIBU Smile POINTS when you use the facilities. These points can be used at all SEIBU PRINCE CLUB member stores, so you can use them on souvenirs or other items on the spot, or save them for your next stay. We decided to save our points for this visit, looking forward to our next visit.
And so, our peaceful stay at Sanyo-so slowly comes to a close, with a sense of regret at its end.
With the hope of returning to this tranquil garden someday, I leave Sanyo-so. Looking back, the peaceful time spent in the vast garden, the private moments spent in the detached cottage, and the countless acts of hospitality that quietly embraced me all come flooding back to me. Even after returning to my daily life, the peaceful time I spent here remains a comforting memory that gently soothes my heart whenever I recall it.
To everyone at Sanyo-so, thank you for everything. Until we meet again.
Izu Nagaoka Onsen Sanyo-so
Address: 270 Tamegami, Izunokuni City, Shizuoka Prefecture 410-2204
TEL: 055-947-1111
https://www.seibuprince.com/ja/sanyo-so-ryokan
