Enjoy Gero Onsen: Japan’s Famous Hot Spring Destination Known for Its Silky-Smooth Waters - Japan Travel Sights

Gero Onsen, located in Gifu Prefecture, is one of Japan’s most famous hot spring towns, renowned for its alkaline waters with a pH of over 9. Known for its skin-smoothing effects, this hot spring has earned a reputation as a “beauty bath” since ancient times.

Gero Onsen, along with Kusatsu Onsen and Arima Onsen, is considered one of the “Three Great Hot Springs of Japan,” a title dating back to the Muromachi period.

Gero Onsen is easily accessible, located about 80 kilometers northeast of Nagoya.

Visitors can reach this tranquil hot spring town in about 90 minutes via the Wide View Hida express train, or approximately two hours by car using the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway.

Once there, visitors can enjoy not only the hot springs but also the picturesque views of the mountains and river, cultural experiences, and historic spots.

Let’s explore the top attractions in Gero Onsen and how to make the most of your visit.

1. Onsen Fountainhead (Open-Air Bath)

The natural hot spring source of Gero Onsen bubbles up along the banks of the Hida River, forming an outdoor open-air bath.

This onsen fountainhead is unique because it’s completely open to the public, offering a free bathing experience. However, keep in mind that there are no changing rooms or walls for privacy—visitors are required to wear swimsuits to bathe here.

Located near the Gero Ohashi Bridge, this open-air bath is a must-see, whether you choose to take a dip or simply visit the riverbank.

The scenic location, paired with the opportunity to soak in naturally flowing hot spring water, makes it one of Gero’s most iconic attractions.

• Name: Onsen Fountainhead (Open-Air Bath)
• Address: Kōda, Gero City, Gifu Prefecture
• Official Site: Gero Onsen Fountainhead

2. Onsenji Temple

Located north of the Hida River, Onsenji Temple is a historic Zen temple that overlooks the Gero hot spring town from a hillside. To reach the temple, visitors must climb a long stone staircase consisting of 173 steps.

Though the climb may be challenging, the view from the temple grounds, which offers a sweeping panorama of Gero Onsen, is well worth the effort.

The temple is dedicated to Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddha of healing, and is closely connected to the local hot spring legend, which tells of a white heron discovering the spring.

Visitors can also participate in sutra copying, a meditative practice that brings a sense of tranquility and peace.

• Name: Onsenji Temple
• Address: 680 Yunoshima, Gero City, Gifu Prefecture
• Official Site: Onsenji Temple

3. Gero Onsen Gassho Village

For a journey back in time, visit Gero Onsen Gassho Village (Gero Onsen Gassho-mura), an open-air museum that recreates the traditional rural life of Japan.

The village features a collection of gassho-zukuri houses, characterized by their steep thatched roofs, which were relocated here from the historic regions of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama.

These homes are a vital part of Japan’s cultural heritage, and several are designated as Important Cultural Properties.

Visitors can stroll through the village, which is divided into two areas: the Gassho-no-Sato and Saijiki-no-Mori. The former houses several preserved structures, including the Old Iwasaki Residence and a folk museum, while the latter features a traditional shrine, a watermill, and activities like woodcarving workshops.

The village also offers a tranquil setting to enjoy seasonal flowers like cherry blossoms and hydrangeas.

• Name: Gero Onsen Gassho Village
• Address: 2369 Mori, Gero City, Gifu Prefecture
• Official Site: Gero Onsen Gassho Village

4. Onsen-Hopping

Gero Onsen is home to several prestigious ryokan (traditional inns) and hotels, such as Yunoshimakan and Suimeikan, where visitors can enjoy luxurious hot spring baths with spectacular views.

To make the most of your visit, consider purchasing the Yumeguri Tegata, a hot spring-hopping pass that allows you to bathe in the onsen of three different participating establishments.

The Yumeguri Tegata is available for 1,300 yen and can be used at over 20 locations, including ryokan and hotels, for a period of six months. The pass also makes for a great souvenir, as it’s made of wood and reflects the traditional craftsmanship of the region.

• Name: Yumeguri Tegata
• Official Site: Gero Onsen Yumeguri Tegata

5. Footbaths Around Town

If you prefer a more casual way to enjoy the hot springs, take advantage of Gero’s many free footbaths scattered throughout the town.

There are eight public footbaths, as well as two located inside private facilities, that are free for visitors to use. Some of the most popular spots include:

• Sagi-no-Ashiyu: Gero’s first footbath, named after the white heron legend.
• Yuamiyu Footbath: Located near the hot spring egg corner, where you can boil eggs while soaking your feet.

These footbaths are a great way to rest your feet after a day of exploring, offering a relaxing and convenient way to enjoy the healing waters of Gero.

• Name: Footbaths (Ashiyu)
• Official Site: Gero Onsen Footbaths

Relax your feet in Gero’s many public footbaths while exploring the town

Conclusion

Gero Onsen is not only famous for its silky, alkaline hot springs but also for its cultural and historical attractions. From open-air baths along the Hida River to traditional temples and gassho-zukuri villages,

Gero offers visitors a rich experience filled with relaxation and discovery. Whether you’re soaking in the famous beauty baths or exploring the town’s historic sites,

Gero Onsen is a destination that will leave you refreshed and enchanted.