Gero, At the Heart of the Timeless Onsen Tradition
Located two hours north of Nagoya, Gero Onsen (Gero-shi) is one of Japan’s most celebrated hot spring destinations. With a history spanning more than a thousand years, it is ranked among the country’s three most prestigious hot spring resorts. It is 
particularly renowned for its crystal-clear, highly alkaline waters, known as hito-gai, which are prized for their softening and revitalizing effects on the skin.
Japanese hot springs, or onsen (温泉), have a long history deeply intertwined with the country’s culture, religion, and geography. They are both a powerful cultural symbol and a major tourist attraction, offering moments of relaxation closely connected to nature. More than simple baths, onsen embody important cultural traditions through specific rituals—such as washing before entering the bath, bathing nude, and observing silence—and reflect essential values including purity, respect, and harmony.
Kamimura family
During our stay, we had the privilege of meeting the Kamimura family, the third generation of owners of Suihouen (https://www.e-onsen.co.jp/lg_en/), an intimate ryokan featuring a private onsen. Unlike public hot springs, it offers a highly personalized and exceptional experience.
Suihouen is also renowned for the quality and refinement of its cuisine, known as Kaiseki Yojō, a unique culinary experience designed to leave a lasting impression on the heart.
Gassho-mura
At Gero Onsen Gassho-mura, ten traditional thatched-roof houses (gassho-zukuri) were relocated from historic sites such as Shirakawa-go to create a remarkable open-air museum. Recreating a traditional mountain village, the site offers visitors a glimpse into the daily lives of past generations. Among the relocated buildings is the Odo House, designated as an Important Tangible Cultural Property of Japan.
The village also includes the Iwasaki House, which serves as a folk museum, as well as the Toyama House and its traditional Itakura storehouse.
A visit to Gero offers a soothing and enriching experience that combines relaxation with cultural discovery. Surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, the town provides the perfect setting to unwind and recharge. Its traditional atmosphere—shaped by charming ryokans, picturesque streets, and open-air foot baths—encourages visitors to slow down and savour the moment.
Between peaceful landscapes, genuine Japanese hospitality, and a rich cultural heritage, Gero is an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and a deeper immersion into the Japanese way of life. It also makes a perfect stopover between Japan’s bustling cities, revealing a quieter and often overlooked side of the country.
Global Goodness would like to thank the following organizations and individuals for their support in planning and organizing our press trip:
- Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau (https://www.tcvb.or.jp/en/)
- Japan Communication Company (Jpncom.com)
- Japan National Tourism Organization (https://www.japan.travel/)
- Fukutake Foundation (https://benesse-artsite.jp/en/nnmoa/art/)
We would also like to extend our special thanks to our friend Emiko Ishikawa, who introduced us to a side of Japan beyond the usual tourist routes and who also accompanies travelers throughout Japan.
Our sincere thanks as well to Priscilla Portsmouth, Shin Kawai, Sumi Sato, Sébastien Moncus (Hosho Theatre and My Taiken), Kunie Takatsu, Yukari Ota, and Sanae Ota.
ainsi qu’à Priscilla Portsmouth, Shin Kawai, Sumi Sato, Sébastien Moncus (Hosho Theatre and My Taiken), Kuni Takatsu, Yukari et Sanae Ota.
