Gero Onsen

Gero Onsen is a historic hot spring resort located in Gero City, Gifu Prefecture, in the Hida River basin. Along with Arima Onsen in Hyogo Prefecture and Kusatsu Onsen in Gunma Prefecture, it has been recognized as one of Japan's "Three Famous Springs" and has been referred to as a "world-renowned hot spring." With a history spanning over 1,000 years, it is a representative hot spring destination in Japan that has been cherished by many over the years.

Origin and History of the Three Famous Springs
The recognition of Gero Onsen as a famous hot spring is backed by a long history and numerous records. One of the earliest references is found in the poetic works of the high monk Banri Shuku, from the Muromachi period. While traveling to avoid the Onin and Bunmei Wars, he visited Gero Onsen and wrote, "Among the sixty or more provinces of our country, the best is Kusatsu, Arima, and Hida's hot island," thus introducing Gero Onsen as one of Japan's top hot springs.

Later, during the Edo period, the Confucian scholar Hayashi Rasan referred to it as one of the "Three Famous Springs of the World" in his travel writings, solidifying the name "Three Famous Springs of Japan." It is said that during the Sengoku period, the warlord Oda Nobunaga also visited for hot spring therapy, indicating that this onsen has been loved by many historical figures throughout the ages.

Additionally, there is a legend that says the Healing Buddha transformed into a wounded white heron and revealed the location of the hot spring source by healing its wings in the Hida River, highlighting the religious significance and stories deeply intertwined with Gero Onsen.

Water Quality and "Beauty Spa"
The water quality of Gero Onsen is classified as alkaline simple spring water. The source temperature is high, reaching approximately 84 degrees Celsius, and due to a centralized management system introduced since 1974, hot spring water is supplied to various ryokans at a stable temperature of around 55 degrees without diluting or heating it.

It is characterized by its colorless transparency and smooth texture, and it gently removes dead skin and sebum, leaving the skin smooth and silky after bathing. For this reason, Gero Onsen is also known as "the Beauty Spa," particularly popular among women, and it has a high rate of repeat visitors. Besides benefits such as relief from neuralgia, muscle pain, joint pain, and fatigue recovery, it is also expected to improve skin quality.

Attractions of the Hot Spring Town and Strolling Around
The hot spring town of Gero Onsen is centered around the Hida River, offering a blend of the serene atmosphere of a mountain village and the lively ambiance of a tourist destination. Various sizes of ryokans line the banks of the Hida River, and with ryokans, restaurants, and souvenir shops relatively compactly situated, visitors can enjoy strolling in yukata while exploring the area.

In the hot spring town, there are several public baths such as the "Funsen Pond," which naturally springs water from the Hida River, as well as the "Shirasagi no Yu," "Sachi no Yu," and "Ryujin no Yu," making it easy to enjoy these various outdoor baths. Additionally, there are free foot baths scattered throughout the area, allowing visitors to savor the comfort of the hot springs during their leisurely strolls—one of the unique charms of Gero Onsen.

Hot Spring Passport for Full Enjoyment
A popular way to fully enjoy Gero Onsen is through the "Yumeguri Tegata" (Hot Spring Passport). By purchasing a uniquely designed pass inspired by Shogi pieces, visitors can choose three out of the participating ryokans and enjoy their signature hot springs.

As the atmosphere of the hot springs varies from one ryokan to another, ranging from large public baths, open-air baths, to intricately designed private baths, it allows for a diverse experience in a single day, which is very appealing. The ability to take the pass home as a travel souvenir is also well received.

Gourmet Food and Nearby Sightseeing
Gero Onsen boasts a rich culinary scene, with many ryokans and dining establishments renowned for dishes made with the famous Hida beef, given its proximity to Takayama in Hida. Visitors often enjoy walking through the town to indulge in Hida beef steak, Hoba miso, and local sweets.

Additionally, there are unique sightseeing spots in the hot spring town such as a museum themed around hot springs and shrines, allowing tourists to enjoy not just the hot springs, but also strolling and sightseeing. Its convenient location, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours from Nagoya by car or train, is one reason why it attracts many visitors year-round.

Seasons and Recommended Ways to Enjoy
Gero Onsen is an enjoyable hot spring destination all year round, but particularly winter is a recommended season. Bathing in hot springs during the cold period is extraordinary, and when snow falls, it provides a magical experience amidst the winter scenery. While the surrounding region is not a heavy snow area, there are times when visitors can enjoy the charm of a snow-covered landscape.

Moreover, being in a location that allows easy access to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go, many travelers utilize Gero Onsen as a base for winter sightseeing in Shirakawa-go.