Gero city where the onsen town is located can be reached with train on Nagoya to Takayama/Toyama line. The city bounded by Hida river that run along the train line, offering a scenic lovely view. On my way in, the river is coloured tranquil blue, and as it rained for almost two days I was in Gero, the river turned brownish strong flow, which is a delight to see as the water level swells a meter or so in some parts.
It is wonderful to stroll along Gero, the path is uphill towards Gasshou village for a collection of relocated village houses from Shirakawa-go. Souvenir shops, shrine, foot baths, and restaurants line up the way, as well as the ranks to the East and West.
Onsen bather can purchase Yumeri Yungata that provides onsen public bath access to 3, within 6 months of purchase. The system is simple via sticker on the back of the wooden block with bells thay makes for a charming souvenir.
I bathed at first Bosenkan that allows for right time bathing 18:00 to 20:00. The water is clear. There is a spacious rest area and bathing. One indoor pool and two outdoor pools: one in shallow area that is not as hoy and designed dor kids. They even provided a bathtub of plastic ducks and frogs with nets to keep kids entertained. The view of ladies bath faces the train track so don’t be surprised if train passes from time to time.
The next day I tried the grand Suimeikan that is located nearest to Gero train station. Iy consists of 3 towers, with the open air bath and grand panorama bath available for public access (12:00-14:00). As the open air bath cleaning day on Wednesday and Friday, I was able to bathe at Grand Panorama bath on 9th floor that provides expansive view over Hida tiber, also facing the train tracks.
Finally, at night I went to Yamagataya anothet hotel that is along yhe Hida river on the west side. It has full ameneties including Horse brand bath soap, shampoo, conditioner, also sake rice pack and sake face wash. The next day I was complimented by a Japanese lady for how beautiful my skin looked :) Yamagataya bath is located on 2nd floor, which is teo floor down from lobby at 4th. It had an infoor and an outfoor bath decorated with bamboo and traditional Japanese elements (lights, rocks) for a relaxing soak.
I followed a pamphlet that recommend: a quick rinse at bathing area (clean yourself but not full bathing yet), then 5 mins soak slowly starting with your legs until you are nice and warm. At this time I also put on the face pack while taking careful note to not dirty the water. Then full shower with soaps until very clean. Afterwards another 5 mins soak at ourdoor area this time, starting with half body and occasional rise rowards chest and heart area. Then rest with cold rinse, shampoo, and put on condistioner. Afterwards wrap hair and go for final soak of 15 mins. Finish up with thorough shower of hair and body, as well as a final rinse of the onsen water, whixh I leave on my body.
