If you are traveling around Hida Takayama and wondering where to go next, I have a confession to make.
Before I went, I wasn’t sure if it was worth making the trip. But after taking a relaxing 80-minute train ride from Takayama Station, I arrived at Gero Onsen in Gero city, Gifu prefecture. It felt a bit far, to be honest. But the moment I stepped out of the station and saw the tourist information sign, my heart started pumping with excitement.
Gero is famous for being one of Japan’s Three Famous Hot Spring Resorts, right alongside Kusatsu(Gunma) and Arima Onsen(Hyogo). But is it actually worth visiting?
I believe it’s an absolute yes! Let me share my honest experience and why this cozy mountain town is the perfect escape.
1. The White Egret and the Miracle Water
To get to the hot spring town, you walk across Gero Ohashi Bridge, which is decorated with drawings of white egrets, called shirasagi in Japanese.
Shirasagi was the key factor in getting Gero started. Why? Well, local legend says a snowy egret flew down and showed the townspeople exactly where the magical hot spring source was hidden.
If you want to learn the full story, you must visit Onsenji Temple on a hilltop. This temple is considered the guardian of Gero Onsen, and it enshrines the Onsen Buddha.
The Onsenji Stair Challenge: Getting up there requires climbing a lot of steep stone stairs. It might look tough, but just think of it as a great workout! If you sweat, who cares? You’re in an onsen town. You can just jump into a hot bath right after! Plus, the view of the town from the temple grounds is absolutely amazing.
2. A Zen Moment in 40°C Water
The hot spring town itself is built on some pretty steep hills. I spent some time walking all the way around the area before heading to a local sento (public bathhouse) for a day-trip onsen experience. Shirasaginoyu is the one I went to.
- Shirasaginoyu Info:
The bathing fee is almost nothing. Only 470 yen! For access and operating hours, check out the Shirasaginoyu Website !
The water was around 40°C—perfectly hot. As I sat half-submerged in the soothing mineral water, my body felt incredibly warm, and I could feel all my travel stress melting away.
Looking out from the bath window, I could see the peaceful river flowing and people sitting along the banks enjoying the free public footbaths (ashiyu). It was such a gentle, warm view that it completely calmed my mind.
3. The “Frog” Culture and Fun Sightseeing
There is a funny thing about this town. In Japanese, the word for frog is “Kaeru,” which happens to be the exact onomatopoeia for a frog’s croak in Japanese: “Gero Gero.”
Because the town is named Gero, they lean hard into the frog theme. It’s hilarious!
- Kaeru Shrine : You absolutely have to stop by here for a laugh. It is super unique, and there is zero tension—just pure, relaxed fun.
4. The Gourmet Scene: Frogs and Hot Puddings!
Gero is not just about soaking; the local food here is amazing.
You cannot leave without trying the famous “Gero Pudding” or heading to a shop called Yuamiya to try their Honwaka Pudding. They actually use the hot spring water to cook it!
Unlike normal pudding which is super firm, this one has a melt-in-your-mouth texture. It is slightly soft, incredibly smooth, and has the perfect touch of mild sweetness. It tastes so comforting. It’s an absolute must-try!
Quick Travel Guide for Gero Onsen
- How long to stay: Half a day (about 4 to 5 hours) is the perfect amount of time to walk around, eat, and soak.
- Official Website: For maps and bathhouse locations, check out the Gero Onsen Official Tourism Website.
The Verdict: Don’t Skip Gero!
Gero Onsen has a completely different vibe compared to Takayama. It is smaller, quieter, and deeply relaxing.
Surrounding yourself with this grand nature, listening to the river, and letting the hot springs heal your body is the ultimate Japanese countryside experience. I only stayed for half a day, but it was an incredibly rich and satisfying trip.
If you are already in Takayama, do yourself a favor: hop on the train and come warm your soul in Gero. It is absolutely worth it!
