Bathing is currently prohibited | Visit the symbol of Gero Onsen, the "Fountain Pond"

Located along the Hida River in the heart of Gero Onsen, Funsenchi Pond was once known as a natural open-air bath where anyone could bathe in a swimsuit. However, as of December 2021, the local government has decided to make it a "no-go" spot for bathing. It is now a popular scenic spot and sightseeing spot in the hot spring town, attracting many tourists.

What is the Funsenchi Pond? A former public open-air bath

The Fountain Pond is an open-air bath with spring water on the banks of the Hida River, and was once a popular hot spring that anyone could bathe in for free as long as they wore a swimsuit. The scenery of the flowing river and the steam rising from the hot springs in harmony was a symbol of Gero Onsen.

However, due to difficulties in management by local governments and tourism-related parties and issues with etiquette, bathing has been prohibited since December 1, 2021, and the spot is now open to visitors only.

Current usage rules and points to note when visiting

• Currently, bathing in the fountain pond (soaking in a bathtub) is completely prohibited.
• Information from the Gifu Prefectural Tourism Federation states that "only foot baths are permitted," but the latest official information does not specify this.
• When visiting, please be sure to follow local signs and instructions from staff.
• Eating, drinking, littering, and entering the river are prohibited.
• For safety reasons, please be careful when entering the area during high water levels or rainy weather.

Access and surrounding area

The fountain pond is conveniently located just a 3-minute walk from JR Gero Station, making it a great spot to stop by during your stroll around the hot spring town. The surrounding area is dotted with foot baths, cafes, and local souvenir shops, making it the perfect location for sightseeing while enjoying the atmosphere of the hot spring town.

Tourist spots and stop-off information around Gero Onsen Fountain Pond

• Gero Onsen Gassho Village:An experiential tourist facility featuring rows of Gassho-style houses relocated from Shirakawa-go.
• Shirasagi Yokocho:A popular spot in the hot spring town where you can enjoy local Hida sake and Gero cuisine.
• Gero Onsen Museum:Japan's first museum specializing in hot springs where you can learn about the ingredients and culture of hot springs.

It remains a symbol of Gero Onsen to this day.

Although bathing in the fountain pond is no longer permitted, the sight of rising steam continues to fascinate tourists as it tells the story of Gero Onsen's history and culture. When visiting, please be sure to observe proper etiquette and make safety your number one priority.