Gero Onsen
One of Japan's three great onsen alongside Arima and Kusatsu — Gero has been listed as a national hot spring since 1246. The bicarbonate spring water is mildly alkaline and produces silky skin. The riverside ryokan district, with outdoor baths overlooking the Hida River, is the classic Japanese onsen scene.
1–2 days recommended
Ryokan day baths from ¥700
Ryokan day baths: typically 11:00–15:00; Bouyou-no-Yu public bath: 10:00–22:00
Year-round
Gero Station on JR Hida Line (direct from Nagoya, 1h 45m)
Location
Why Visit
- 1
One of Japan's three great hot springs — designated as such since the Heian period
- 2
Bicarbonate water produces "bijin-no-yu" (beautiful skin water) — the softest bathing experience in Gifu
- 3
Free foot baths along the riverside street let you soak while watching cormorant fishing boats at dusk
Local Tips
Gero is one of Japan's three great hot spring towns alongside Arima and Kusatsu. The free foot baths along the river promenade are a good low-commitment introduction. The Gero Onsen Gassho-mura open-air museum (30 min walk) has relocated Shirakawa-go farmhouses — a natural combination with the onsen visit.
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