Yunoshimakan

This historic hot springs inn was built in 1931, when the Gero Onsen area was still called “Yunoshima”. It sits halfway up Mt. Nakane, the mountain nicknamed “Gero Fuji” to envoke an extra since of luxe, relaxing nature. The inn was built many years ago but keeps a wooden, updated aesthetic of fused Japanese and Western design for a modern classic look and feel.

The over 165,000 square meter gardens have been upkept since the inn’s opening, serving as home to gorgeous flowers and birds all year as well as small critters like Japanese flying squirrels. From the observation deck up top you can look down across the sprawling Gero streetscapes, and from the open air baths and large shared baths you can look up at the rolling Hida Mountains. This particular spot is set back a little further from the main hot springs area, making for a quiet and relaxing stay.

The standard rooms in the main and annex halls keep an upkept retro aesthetic, while the private mountain villa has an updated classic feel. There’s even a separate private villa with it’s own open air bath with Hida-styled architecture that’s been used by imperial family, politicians, financiers and more for its authentic, Japanese beauty.

Visitors here can enjoy their own selection of yukata robes or even a special stay plan made available for birthday’s and anniversaries.