Hot Springs In Gero, Gifu: Explore A Quaint Old Town In Central Japan

A tourist information counter awaits you

Once you have deboarded the Wide View train in Gero, you will see the tourist information counter readily available if you need help with the directions or a map. Ahead of the counter are clear signages that indicate the way to Gero. A short 5-minute walk will get you to the town.

If you have heavy luggage or bags, you can store them in the provider lockers outside the train station for a fee that starts from 300 yen (2.50 USD) depending on the size of the locker. Both of the larger lockers for luggage are usually occupied pretty fast, but there is a souvenir shop across the road that will store your luggage for 300 yen regardless of the size. You can check with the information center on that.

Enjoy a bath

As an onsen town, hot springs are most popular in Gero. On the walking map, there are some places which offer a free foot bath. Just make sure that you bring your towel with you because they do not provide any. There are also some that offered hot foot baths at small fees, and are conveniently located along the walking street. Rest your tired feet and pamper them with a foot bath. Most of them can accommodate about 6-10 people, so sitting there with your friends or family would be fun!

There are several public bath houses, separated by gender, where you can pamper your body and gain that smooth baby-skin that everyone envies! Although onsens can be very relaxing, avoid staying in the water for too long, and do stay hydrated when you are out from the onsen.

Enjoy an easy walk along the river

Gero is a small old town where you can slow down your steps to breathe the fresh air and enjoy the walk along the river. The walk around the town is very easy along the paved path, and there are signs every 100 meters (328 ft) to guide you to the correct direction.

Visit the Gero-Gasshomura

Gassho-style houses are traditional residences with a thatched roof. You can visit one up the hills in the town of Gero. The walk will take you about 30 minutes from the train station, and there will be clear signage to lead you. It is a good way to explore the town while heading towards your destination. When nearing the place, the road goes uphill so it can be rather exhausting walking up the slope. If you have visited the larger gassho villages such as Shirakawago, you may opt to skip it because it is much smaller and they look the same. However, if you have not seen any, this is a great opportunity to explore the traditional houses.

There is a small homely restaurant outside the gassho where you can enjoy pancakes and freshly brewed coffee after your visit