【Gero Onsen】 Charming natural hot spring with a high temperature of 84 degrees Celsius

Enjoy the “Beautifying Hot Spring” with its 1,000-year history and the historic townscape

Yugamine, a volcano said to have erupted 100,000 years ago, is where the first Gero Onsen was discovered near its summit. However, when the hot spring suddenly stopped flowing, it was rediscovered along the banks of the Hida River. Legend has it that a wounded heron (or sagi) led to its rediscovery.

The relocation of the hot spring to flat ground made it more accessible, and from there, its reputation as a famous hot spring spread. Gero Onsen boasts a 1,000-year history, with a maximum source temperature of 84 °C and a supply temperature of 55 °C. Hot springs with a pH value of 8.5 or higher, which are called alkaline simple hot springs, are believed to have beautifying effects on the skin, and Gero Onsen is a genuinely alkaline and natural hot spring that is incredibly smooth. Unlike a typical hot spring, the water is colorless and transparent; but once you step in, you will be surprised by its mildness. It is indeed worthy of being called the Beautifying Hot Spring.

The hot spring water contains less than 1,000 mg of substances per 1 kg, resulting in minimal irritation to the skin and a fine, smooth complexion. To ensure a stable supply of this high-quality hot spring water in the future, a centralized management system has been implemented, which is a unique feature. As a result, all member inns offer baths with the same spring quality. What’s more, the essence of Gero Onsen lies in its atmospheric scenery. Surrounded by lush mountains and landscapes changing with the seasons, the town has a nostalgic, somewhat retro feel. Enjoy the soothing and relaxing moments of the hot spring amid this beautiful setting.

Are you a hot spring enthusiast who wants to thoroughly enjoy the experience? Or do you prefer casual footbaths during sightseeing?

The hot spring tour pass can be purchased not only at member inns but also at convenience stores and souvenir shops. The pass has a cute appearance, resembling a shogi piece, with a bell attached to a string, making it a perfect memento or souvenir of your trip. On the back, there are “Hot Spring Master” stickers, which you peel off one at a time when entering the hot springs. The pass is also useful for day trips and is valid for six months, allowing you to use it on the day of purchase, the following day, and even across multiple trips.

There are many member inns, but one of the famous ones is Bosen-kan, which is known for its location overlooking the Hida River and its exceptional open-air baths. The inn features thoughtful touches, such as shallow baths for children and tatami mats laid out in certain areas. The Japanese garden is stunning, and the footbath within it is irresistible. Another popular inn, Yamagata-ya, has continued since the Edo period. The soothing sounds of the Hida River and the shade of bamboo and maple trees offer a blissful experience. Next to the entrance, there is a handbath carved from natural stone, which is said to be good for alleviating coldness and stiff shoulders.

If you want to efficiently explore the hot spring town and don’t want to change clothes multiple times, we recommend trying various footbaths. The Sarubobo Golden Footbath, located inside the Sarubobo Seven Lucky Gods Shrine, is said to boost your fortune and financial luck. The Sagi -no-Ashiyu footbath is a simple wooden bathtub and bench that is said to be the first built in Gero Onsen. The Yuami-ya footbath, open 24 hours, offers original hot spring cosmetics for purchase at the adjacent store. There are many unique footbaths to explore while sightseeing and strolling, so warm your feet as you go.

Indulge in exquisite local gourmet food at stylish shops in the hot spring town

When visiting Gero, don’t forget to try various foods and search for souvenirs. Local gourmet dishes that can be enjoyed casually are essential. The pudding made with local Gero milk is a hit, especially among women, due to its adorable appearance and popularity as an Instagrammable treat.

If you’re feeling a little hungry, we recommend grilled sushi. Served on rice crackers, the sushi comes in the following three varieties: Hida beef marbled or lean cuts and Hida natto-fed pork. Try a set that allows you to compare all three, and indulge in their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich meat flavors.

If you’re looking for something unique, don’t miss the hot spring egg soft served at Yuami-ya. This one-of-a-kind dessert combines a hot spring egg and soft serve ice cream, making it a perfect conversation starter. Enjoying it like a parfait while relaxing at a footbath would be the ultimate experience!

Among Japanese sweets, horse chestnut rice crackers are loved by people of all ages. The oval-shaped crackers are baked by hand, and the bitter flavor of horse chestnut lingers delightfully. As you walk through the hot spring town, you’ll find plenty of gourmet treats that will tempt you to stop and try them. If you’re drawn to the enticing aromas and charming signs, don’t hesitate to pause and taste the delights.

Delve into the world of hot springs at a unique museum

If you love hot springs, you’ll want to visit the Gero Hot Spring Museum located in Yunoshima. This unique, specialized museum introduces hot springs from both a chemical and cultural perspective. With five sections featuring fun and easy-to-understand exhibits, it’s popular with families.

A footbath is also available for those who want to take a short break and soak their feet. Whether you choose to forget about time and immerse yourself in the hot springs or explore every corner for a deep dive into local tourism, the allure of Gero Hot Springs never fades, no matter how many times you visit.