Gero Onsen, one of Japan’s top three hot spring towns, is just a short ride from Takayama — making it a perfect overnight escape or day-trip destination. Whether you're headed there for a relaxing soak, a stay at a traditional ryokan, or to join a guided tour, getting from Takayama to Gero is easy and scenic.
In this guide, we break down the different travel options, timeframes, and tips for making the most of your journey.
Where is Gero Onsen?
Gero Onsen is located in southern Gifu Prefecture, nestled along the Hida River and surrounded by forested hills. It sits about 45 kilometres south of Takayama, and is easily accessed by train or car along the JR Takayama Main Line.
Famous for its alkaline hot springs, Gero has been known as one of Japan’s top three onsen towns since the Edo Period. Today, it combines traditional ryokan stays and public bathhouses with modern touches like footbaths scattered throughout town. Its convenient location between Takayama and Nagoya makes it an ideal stop for those exploring the Hida region or heading toward Central Japan.
How to Get to Gero Onsen from Takayama
Getting to Gero Onsen from Takayama is simple, with regular train connections and a scenic drive for those with a car. The journey takes around 45 to 60 minutes, making it a convenient addition to your Takayama itinerary.
Option 1: Limited Express Hida (Fastest & Most Comfortable)
- Take the Limited Express Hida from Takayama Station to Gero Station
- Comfortable seating and onboard restrooms
- Advanced seat reservations available
Travel Time: ~35 minutes
Cost: Around ¥2,000 one way
Best For: Travellers prioritising comfort and speed
Option 2: JR Takayama Main Line (Local Train)
- Take the JR Takayama Main Line local train from Takayama Station to Gero Station
- Trains depart roughly once per hour
- Slower than the Hida Express but a more budget-friendly option
Travel Time: ~45 to 55 minutes
Cost: Around ¥1,000–¥1,300 one way
Best For: Budget-conscious travellers or those using a rail pass
Option 3: By Car
- Drive south from Takayama via Route 41, which follows the Hida River
- The road is well-maintained and offers pleasant mountain and river scenery along the way
Travel Time: ~60 minutes
Best For: Travellers with a rental car or those planning a self-drive tour
Tip: Gero has public parking near the station and hotels, and most ryokan offer free parking for overnight guests.
Tips for Visiting Gero Onsen
- Try a Public Bath or Footbath: Even if you're not staying overnight, Gero has plenty of public bathhouses and free footbaths (ashiyu) scattered throughout town. These are perfect for a quick soak and a relaxing break.
- Pick Up a Yumeguri Tegata (Bath Pass): This wooden pass gives you discounted access to multiple ryokan baths around Gero and makes a great souvenir. It’s available at the station and participating inns.
- Visit Onsen-ji Temple: Located on a hill overlooking town, this quiet temple offers panoramic views and a peaceful atmosphere — a nice contrast to the busy streets below.
- Book a Ryokan Stay Early: Gero is popular with domestic travellers, especially on weekends and holidays. Booking early ensures the best selection of traditional inns with private or open-air baths.
- Stroll the Riverside Promenade: The riverside path is especially lovely in the evening, when lanterns light the way and the sound of the river adds to the peaceful atmosphere.
Gero Onsen Tours
Want to make the most of your visit to Gero? Join our 1-Day Tour from Takayama: Unveiling the Charm of Gero Onsen — a relaxing journey into one of Japan’s most beloved hot spring towns. This tour combines local insight, onsen access, and time to explore the riverside streets at your own pace.
Highlights:
- Stroll Gero’s charming hot spring town with a local guide
- Enjoy free time to soak in a public bath or footbath
- Visit Onsen-ji Temple and other cultural spots along the way
This tour combines local insight, onsen access, and time to explore the riverside streets at your own pace — making it the easiest and most enriching way to visit Gero from Takayama.
Whether you prefer to visit as part of a guided experience or stay overnight in a traditional ryokan, Gero Onsen is an easy and memorable escape from Takayama.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take to travel from Takayama to Gero Onsen?
It’s about a 45-minute ride by train on the Takayama Main Line, with options every hour.
Is the bus a good alternative to the train?
Yes—buses depart every 1–2 hours from Takayama, taking around 75–90 minutes and offering scenic views and direct village access.
What is Gero Onsen known for?
Gero is one of Japan’s top hot spring towns, celebrated for its silky, alkaline waters, serene riverside footbaths, and mountain-valley setting.
What can I expect on a day trip to Gero Onsen?
You can soak in public baths, stroll along riverfront footbaths, visit the Hot Spring Museum, and relax at Onsenji Temple—all in a peaceful alpine atmosphere.
Are guided tours available from Takayama?
Yes—our full-day tours combine Takayama with Gero Onsen, offering sightseeing, local history, optional transfers, and onsen experiences.