Gero is a classical example of overdevelopment having ruined what could have been a town more touristically important than nearby Takayama as the baths, the scenery of the nearby hills, the footbaths and the food served in the ryokan-style hotels are often excellent.
Back in the Edo period, Gero onsen was know as one of the Three Famous Springs (日本三名泉 Nihon Sanmeisen) and the town's hot springs first appeared in print in the Engi Era (901-923). Enough history to make a great tourist attraction, however, at the moment all that is left are the baths and hotels that appear to be way past their glory.
Camera: Pentax *ist DS, lens: 18-50mm F2.8 EX DC MACRO
