Gero Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gems of Gero in Japan with this comprehensive travel guide. From natural attractions to cultural landmarks, find everything you need to know about this stunning destination.


Introduction to Gero

Nestled in the beautiful prefecture of Gifu in the Chubu region of Japan, Gero is a hidden gem that’s waiting to be discovered. With its hot springs, scenic views, cultural landmarks, and mouth-watering cuisine, Gero is a traveler’s dream come true. Whether you’re an adventurer looking for an adrenaline rush or a cultural buff seeking artistic and historical gems, Gero has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Gero

  • Minami Alps National Park
  • Gero Onsen
  • Jigokudani Monkey Park
  • Takayama Old Town
  • Hida Folk Village
  • Kusatsu Onsen
  • Shirakawa-go Historic Village

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Gero offers a wealth of history and culture, and here are some of the must-visit museums and historical places:

  • Gero Onsen Gassho Village
  • Onsen-ji Temple
  • Gassho-style House Museum
  • Gero City Heritage Center
  • Fudo Falls

Natural Attractions of Gero: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Gero’s natural beauty is breathtakingly beautiful, and many of its outdoor adventures and scenic views are worth visiting for. Here are some of them:

  • Mount Ontake
  • Kamikochi Valley
  • Shin-Hotaka Ropeway
  • Hirayu Otaki Falls
  • Okuhida Bear Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gero

If you’re an adventurer looking for an adrenaline rush, Gero has several hiking and biking routes. Here are some of the popular ones:

  • Nakasendo Trail
  • Tsukechi Gorge Trail
  • Mount Kinka Trail
  • Shirakawa-go Trail

Best Things to Do in Gero: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of exciting things to do in Gero, ranging from cultural tours to adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities. Here are some of the best things to do in Gero:

  • Soak in the hot springs of Gero Onsen
  • Take a cultural tour of Gassho-style House Museum
  • Hike Mount Ontake for stunning views
  • Explore Takayama Old Town
  • Get up close and personal with the fascinating snow monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park
  • Go skiing at Hirugano Kogen Ski Resort
  • Explore the Minami Alps National Park

Week-Long Itinerary for Gero

Here’s a sample 7-day itinerary for Gero:

Day Activity
1 Explore Gero Onsen
2 Hike Mount Ontake
3 Visit the Gero City Heritage Center and Onsen-ji Temple
4 Enjoy a cultural tour of Gassho-style House Museum and Kusatsu Onsen
5 Visit Takayama Old Town and Hida Folk Village
6 Try skiing at Hirugano Kogen Ski Resort
7 Explore Shin-Hotaka Ropeway and Kamikochi Valley

Food and Drink Scene of Gero

Gero has a rich culinary culture, and here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hida beef
  • Oyaki (a type of dumpling)
  • Gero soba (local buckwheat noodles)
  • Takayama ramen
  • Oden

Local Beverages

  • Gassho-zake (local sake)
  • Gohei-mochi (grilled rice cake)
  • Hida Milk

Where to Stay in Gero: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in Gero, ranging from luxurious hotels to affordable guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in Gero:

  • Gero Onsen Yumotokan
  • Takimoto Inn
  • Hidatei Hanaougi
  • Gero Onsen Fugaku Ryokan
  • Gero Kanko Hotel

What to Buy in Gero: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring back home from Gero:

  • Gassho-style houses
  • Hida handmade crafts
  • Gero Onsen products
  • Local sake and beer
  • Hida beef jerky

Local Culture and Customs of Gero

Gero is a culturally-rich destination, and it’s essential to pay respect to its customs and traditions. Here are some things you should know:

  • Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or temple
  • Japanese bow instead of shaking hands
  • Respect the “omotenashi” (hospitality) culture of offering food and drink to guests
  • Take care not to waste food, especially rice

Best Time to Visit Gero

The best time to visit Gero is from March to May or September to November when the temperatures are mild, and the crowds are relatively low.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gero

Here are some essential Do’s and Don’ts to follow when traveling to Gero:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine
  • Take off your shoes when entering someone’s home or temple
  • Respect Japan’s traditional culture and customs
  • Explore the natural beauty of the Chubu region

Don’t:

  • Litter in public spaces
  • Forget to bring cash since not all establishments accept credit cards
  • Smoke in non-designated areas
  • Overstay your visa/entry permit

Safety and Health

It’s safe to travel to Gero, and there are no significant health hazards to worry about. However, it’s advisable to take standard precautions, such as wearing sunscreen and staying hydrated while exploring Gero.

Safety in Gero

Gero is a safe destination, and it’s relatively low in crime. However, it’s essential to take standard safety precautions, such as carrying a copy of your passport at all times and securing your valuables.

Health in Gero

Gero has a well-developed healthcare system, and there are several hospitals and clinics in the area. However, it’s advisable to carry a comprehensive medical insurance policy when traveling to Gero.

Getting to Gero: Transportation Options and Logistics

Gero is easily accessible through several transportation options. Here are some of the most common ways to get to Gero:

Airports Near Gero

  • Nagoya Chubu Centrair International Airport
  • Tokyo Narita International Airport
  • Kansai International Airport

Bus Stations Near Gero

  • Gero Bus Station
  • Nagoya Bus Station
  • Takayama Bus Station

Other Options

  • Car rental services
  • Taxi services

How to Get Around in Gero

Getting around in Gero is relatively easy and convenient:

  • Walking: Many of Gero’s attractions are within walking distance.
  • Biking: Rental bikes are available in many parts of Gero.
  • Taxis: Taxis are readily available throughout Gero.
  • Bus: Gero Bus company provides bus transport to different parts of Gero.

Where to Go Next from Gero: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Gero is located in the heart of Japan, making it an ideal base for exploring nearby destinations. Here are some of the best nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Takayama
  • Shirakawa-go
  • Kyoto

Conclusion

Gero is a hidden gem in Japan that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and mouth-watering cuisine. Whether you’re an adventurer seeking outdoor thrills or a culture buff looking to explore Japan’s rich history, Gero has something for everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local customs to follow when exploring Gero.

Urban sprawl in Gero Onsen Urban sprawl in Gero Onsen clearly visible bath to passersby on the bridge, but it's free. clearly visible bath to passersby on the bridge, but it's free.