TAOYA Gero
7,7/10 Very good - Based on 538 reviews
TAOYA Gero is the rebranded onsen resort from a well-known group, relaunched as an adult-focused hot spring hotel that leans into the landscape and history of Gero. Opened under the TAOYA concept in mid‑2025, the property positions itself as a relaxed, all‑inclusive style retreat where most on‑site services — from buffet dining to evening drink service — are bundled into the stay. The redesign emphasizes calm, modern interiors and public spaces that frame views of the surrounding South Hida mountains and the classic hot spring town below, creating a distinct sense of place for guests seeking a composed onsen experience rather than a bustling inn atmosphere.
Bathing and wellness are central: the property offers large communal baths with alternating men’s and women’s rotations plus a newly added half‑open‑air bathing floor that pairs a panoramic semi‑outdoor bath with a view‑oriented sauna and a relaxed post‑soak lounge. Several room types include en‑suite bathing options, including rooms with private open‑air baths for those who prefer solitude, while communal facilities include a family‑friendly buffet restaurant and casual lounge areas. The spa layout is designed so guests can shift between different bathing moods — verdant daytime views toward the mountains and a lit‑up resortscape at night — which underscores its appeal as a ryokan with onsen in Gifu.
Practicalities are straightforward for visitors: the hotel sits within easy reach of the Gero onsen area and is a short drive from the local rail hub, with on‑site parking and 24‑hour reception to accommodate arrivals. Service features such as multilingual staff at reception, a mix of Western and Japanese room configurations, and on‑site bathing etiquette guidance aim to make stays comfortable for both domestic and international travelers. Whether you prioritize scenic bathing, a buffet‑style dining rhythm, or a stay that melds contemporary comfort with traditional hot spring culture, TAOYA Gero presents a considered option among ryokan with onsen in Gifu Prefecture.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: TAOYA Gero
Positive Reviews
Enjoyable onsen and bathing facilities
Many guests praised the hot springs (including outdoor baths and a small outdoor rotenburo) as clean, relaxing and well maintained, with pleasant views from the bathing areas.
Food quality and variety
Multiple reviews highlighted the delicious meals and large selection at breakfast and dinner buffets; several guests enjoyed the buffet offerings and complimentary drinks during dinner/lounge service.
Spacious rooms with great views
Rooms were frequently described as large and comfortable, often with commanding panoramic views or balcony outlooks that enhanced the stay.
Relaxing lounge and extra amenities
The lounge/muryo corner, free-flow drinks and manga corner were noted as nice extras that provided a relaxing atmosphere and added value to the stay.
Good overall service and cleanliness
Many reviewers mentioned helpful staff, attentive service (e.g., assistance with luggage) and generally clean facilities, contributing to a pleasant overall experience.
Negative Reviews
Remote location and transport inconvenience
Several guests found the hotel relatively far from the town/station; shuttle service is limited at times and access can be difficult without a car or when walking routes are blocked.
Firm beds and sleep comfort
A number of guests commented that beds (or futon/tatami arrangements) felt very hard, which affected sleeping comfort for some visitors.
Buffet crowding, limited choices and reservation constraints
Some reviewers reported busy buffet and dining areas, limited food variety for certain meals or children, and a preference against required meal times or paid alcohol options during dinner.
Onsen size and crowding issues
A few guests noted that specific rotenburo or outdoor pools felt small or were crowded at peak times; some suggested rotating pools between genders or improving space management.
Room/facility shortcomings
Occasional negatives included minor room odors, slightly dated decor, weak Wi‑Fi in spots, limited towels or absence of bottled water in rooms, and at least one guest reporting a closed pool that wasn’t clearly communicated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room capacity varies by room type; family rooms are available and each listing shows the maximum occupancy. No extra beds or cots are provided, so confirm guest numbers when booking.
Yes. The property offers public hot-spring baths, open-air baths and a sauna, and a new semi-open-air bath and panoramic sauna were added during the TAOYA rebrand.
No regular shuttle is listed. Gero Station is about 1.9 km from the ryokan (roughly a 5–10 minute drive); taxis and local buses are common transfer options.
Nagoya Airport is approximately 89 km away; travelers typically use trains or airport buses toward Gero Station and then take a short taxi or local bus to the ryokan.
English support may be limited; contact the property in advance if you need language assistance or special requests.
Check-in is from 15:00 to 19:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
Private baths are not listed as standard amenities; please contact the ryokan directly to inquire about reservable or family-use bathing options.
Pets are not permitted at the property. If you rely on a service animal, contact the ryokan in advance to confirm arrangements.
There is an on-site restaurant offering buffet breakfast and dinner; the dining area was updated during the TAOYA rebrand, so check your reservation for specific meal details.
The ryokan sits in Gero Onsen — enjoy the hot-spring town, visit Gero Onsen Gassho-mura and the Ideyu Morning Market, and consider day trips to Takayama and the Hida Folk Village.