Gero Onsen Travel Guide

Gero Onsen has been a favorite location to relax in Japan since the 10th century. The Hida River area is filled with numerous hotels and ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) so visitors can enjoy an overnight stay. Just like many onsen hot springs, the water is said to have healing properties. Gero Onsen is an alkaline, rather than acidic, hot spring, making the water transparent and leaving the skin refreshed and smooth. If you have sensitive skin, this onsen will not leave your skin irritated and instead, will relieve your stress and improve blood circulation.

For those who cannot do a day trip, there are three public and free open-air baths (called “rotenburo” in Japanese) next to Gero Bridge. However, it is important to take note that people walking past the bridge can see bathers. Visitors also have the option to purchase a “yumeguri tegata” bath pass, which will open up options and allow bathing at some hotels and ryokans at specific times. Another site to see while in the area is Onsenji (literally “hot spring temple”), which is home to an 11-headed buddha that is only displayed for a span of 3 years every 33 years. Visit during fall where the trees turn red, giving the perfect contrast to the dark, brown color of the temple.