Gero Onsen
Gero Onsen: A Beloved Hot Spring Town with Gentle Waters and Timeless Allure
Tucked away in the mountains of Gifu, Gero Onsen is counted among Japan’s Three Great Hot Springs. It’s been a cherished getaway for centuries, thanks to its silky-smooth thermal waters and peaceful mountain setting. The alkaline hot spring here is especially kind to the skin—so much so, it’s often nicknamed “The Bath of Beautiful Skin.”
But the charm of Gero goes well beyond the baths. This riverside town weaves together traditional ryokan hospitality and modern comforts in the most relaxing way.
Imagine strolling through quiet streets in a yukata, soaking your feet in a warm ashiyu, or gazing out at the Hida River from an open-air bath. Everything here invites you to slow down.
Whether you’re chasing calm, craving Hida beef, or just curious about local life, Gero Onsen delivers more than just a break from the everyday—it’s a gentle dive into the heart of Japanese culture.
Gero’s Stories Flow as Deeply as Its Springs
There’s something special about Gero Onsen—and not just the soothing water.
According to legend, a white heron showed villagers where the hot spring bubbled up, and that mythical moment still echoes through statues and local folklore today.
What really sets Gero apart is how hot springs are part of everyday life. You’ll see locals and travelers alike soaking their feet in ashiyu along the street or using the Yu-meguri Tegata—a clever wooden pass that lets you hop from one bathhouse to another at a great value.
Festivals in summer and glowing lanterns in winter bring the whole town to life. From traditional rituals to warm welcomes, Gero isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling, a moment, a memory in the making.
Savor Local Cuisine and Discover Scenic Spots in Gero Onsen
Hot springs may be the star of the show in Gero, but your journey doesn’t end there.
Food lovers can indulge in Hida beef, a luxurious wagyu known for its marbled richness and buttery flavor. It’s often served grilled on magnolia leaves (ho-ba miso), or featured in sukiyaki and steak dishes that melt in your mouth.
If you’re after something lighter, try Gero Onsen eggs—silky, slow-cooked, and surprisingly satisfying. Pair them with a stroll to one of the riverside tea shops for delicate Japanese sweets that go perfectly with matcha.
Wander a bit further and you’ll find yourself in Gero Gassho Village, a charming open-air museum of traditional homes and folk crafts. Prefer nature? Head toward Mount Ontake or follow the serene paths along the Hida River for mountain air, clear waters, and a quiet that settles the mind.
Top 5 Must-Buy Souvenirs from Gero Onsen : Perfect Gifts from Japan’s Famous Hot Spring Town
1. Shirasagi Monogatari (しらさぎ物語)
Delicate European-style cookies filled with smooth white cream, named after the local legend of a white heron associated with Gero Onsen.
2. Gero Pudding (下呂プリン)
A nostalgic pudding made with local Gero milk and premium vanilla beans. Available in various flavors like melon soda and coffee jelly.
3. Gero Gero Manju (下呂げろまんじゅう)
Adorable frog-shaped steamed buns filled with sweet white bean paste. A playful design with a soft texture.
4. Sarubobo no Tamago (さるぼぼのたまご)
Inspired by the traditional Sarubobo doll, this egg-shaped confection combines rich egg yolk with a soft cake exterior for a delightful taste.
5. Hoba Miso (朴葉みそ)
A traditional Hida dish where miso is grilled on a magnolia leaf, offering a unique aroma and flavor. A delicious souvenir to enjoy the taste of Gero at home.
Top 5 Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss in Gero Onsen : Scenic Beauty and Relaxing Experiences
1. Gero Onsen Gassho Village（下呂温泉合掌村）
An open-air museum showcasing traditional thatched-roof houses relocated from Shirakawa-go. Learn about rural Japanese life and participate in workshops.
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2. Onsenji Temple（温泉寺）
A temple halfway up a hill overlooking the town, dedicated to Yakushi Nyorai (the Medicine Buddha). Enjoy the serene atmosphere and panoramic views.
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3. Gero Onsen Museum（下呂発温泉博物館）
A unique museum themed around the science and culture of hot springs. Exhibits include the formation of hot springs, water quality analysis, and the history of Gero Onsen.
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4. Gandate Gorge（巌立峡）
A breathtaking gorge featuring towering cliffs and waterfalls. Well-maintained walking trails offer beautiful scenery, especially during the autumn foliage season.
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5. Saruhobo Golden Foot Bath（さるぼぼ黄金足湯）
A charming foot bath near the Sarubobo Seven Lucky Gods Shrine. Relax in the warm water and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the area.
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Best Ryokan and Hotels to Stay in Gero Onsen: Experience Japan’s Famous Hot Spring Town
With so many great places to stay, it’s hard to choose. Here are five ryokan that travelers consistently rate highly for their location, ambiance, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re looking for traditional charm or luxury with a view, you’ll find it here.
Suimeikan（水明館）
Just a 3-minute walk from JR Gero Station, Suimeikan is one of Gero’s most renowned ryokan hotels, offering a perfect mix of traditional elegance and modern comfort.
Guests love its spacious Japanese and Western-style rooms, the variety of hot spring baths—including open-air options—and the exceptional service from English-speaking staff who go out of their way to make you feel at home.
Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway or a relaxing solo trip, Suimeikan makes it easy to unwind in style. On-site restaurants serve refined seasonal cuisine, and the hotel even offers cultural experiences like tea ceremonies and calligraphy.
Review Excerpt:
“Steps from Gero Station, super convenient. The staff were incredibly kind and spoke English well. The onsen was clean and relaxing—definitely one of the highlights of our trip!”
Bosenkan（望川館）
Nestled beside the scenic Hida River, Bosenkan offers a calm and traditional retreat with beautiful Japanese gardens and open-air hot spring baths that look out over the water.
This long-standing ryokan welcomes international guests with warm hospitality and a staff that includes English and multilingual speakers—making communication smooth and stress-free.
Guests can enjoy seasonal kaiseki meals made with local ingredients, relax in tatami-mat rooms, and soak in the peaceful ambiance that’s been loved for generations.
Review Excerpt:
“The location by the river is lovely, and the staff at reception and the restaurant spoke enough English to make everything easy. It felt really welcoming.”
Fugaku（富岳）
Overlooking the Hida River, Fugaku is a warm, intimate ryokan known for its private open-air baths and peaceful atmosphere. Each room offers a scenic view—perfect for slow mornings and quiet evenings.
What really stands out is the friendly, multilingual staff who go above and beyond to make guests feel at ease. Whether you speak English, Cantonese, or Japanese, communication feels natural and relaxed.
This is the kind of place where you can truly unwind—watching the river flow by from your balcony, soaking in the hot spring, and feeling completely looked after.
Review Excerpt:
“Great view from the room, and the staff were incredibly helpful! It was so comforting to be able to speak in Cantonese and English. We felt really welcome.”
Shogetsu（今宵天空に遊ぶ しょうげつ）
Perched high above Gero Onsen, Shogetsu delivers sweeping views, quiet elegance, and a sense of escape that feels almost dreamlike.
Each guest room includes a private open-air bath, so you can soak in the warm spring water while gazing out at the mountains in complete privacy.
Service here is warm and intuitive. The staff are fluent in English and truly thoughtful, creating a seamless experience from check-in to checkout. Whether you’re celebrating something special or simply need to unwind, this hilltop retreat makes it all feel effortless.
Review Excerpt:
“Our room had the most amazing view. The private onsen felt luxurious, and the staff made us feel genuinely cared for. Being able to speak English helped everything flow smoothly.”
Yamagataya（山形屋）
With a history dating back to 1804, Yamagataya brings over two centuries of hospitality experience to every guest stay. Conveniently located near the station, it’s a great base for exploring Gero while enjoying the calm of a traditional ryokan setting.
The staff’s ability to communicate in English and Mandarin adds to the comfort, and their warm, respectful service often leaves a lasting impression. The peaceful atmosphere, classic Japanese interiors, and easy access make it a favorite among international travelers.
Review Excerpt:
“The staff spoke both English and Mandarin, which made everything really smooth. They were kind, polite, and went out of their way to help.”
How to Get to Gero Onsen from Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO)
Gero Onsen, located in Gifu Prefecture, is one of Japan’s top three hot springs. Here are the most convenient ways to get there from Chubu Centrair International Airport, tailored for international travelers.
🚄 Route 1: By Train (Most Recommended)
🛤️ Step 1: Meitetsu Limited Express “μ-SKY”
From: Central Japan International Airport Station
To: Meitetsu Nagoya Station
Duration: Approx. 28 minutes
Fare: ¥850
🚄 Step 2: JR Limited Express “Wide View Hida”
From: JR Nagoya Station
To: JR Gero Station
Train Type: JR Limited Express “Wide View Hida” (bound for Takayama)
Duration: Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes
Fare: ¥3,500–¥5,000
✅ Total Travel Time: Around 3 hours
💴 Total Fare: ¥4,350–¥5,850
📌 Tip: Reserved seats are recommended, especially during weekends and holidays.
🚗 Route 2: By Car (Rental Option)
Route: Via Chita Peninsula Road, Nagoya Expressway, and National Route 41
Distance: Approx. 140 km
Driving Time: Around 2 hours
Note: This option provides flexibility, but driving in Japan requires an International Driving Permit (IDP) and familiarity with local road rules.
🚌 Route 3: Direct Bus from Nagoya Station (For Ryokan Guests Only)
For guests staying at member ryokans of the Gero Onsen Ryokan Association, a direct shuttle bus is available from Nagoya.
Departure: JR Nagoya Station at 14:00
Arrival: JR Gero Station at 16:30
Fare: ¥2,800 (one-way) / ¥3,700 (round-trip)
Reservation: Required in advance
Operator: Gero Onsen Ryokan Association
Website: Gero Onsen Association
✅ Total Time: 2.5 hours (with no train transfers)
📌 Note: This is ideal for guests with luggage or limited Japanese language ability.
🚐 Final Step: From JR Gero Station to Your Ryokan
Many ryokans in Gero Onsen offer free shuttle service from JR Gero Station.
Be sure to inform your ryokan in advance about your arrival time.
Pick-up is typically located near the station’s main exit.
📱 Travel Tips:
Use Google Maps or Japan Travel by NAVITIME for real-time route planning.
Purchase tickets via machines with English support or ask for assistance at Midori-no-Madoguchi (JR Ticket Office).
IC Cards like TOICA, ICOCA, or Suica may be used on some segments.
