Overview

Stay at Sasara, an artful ryokan perched on a hill above the historic hot spring town of Gero. This is not just another place to sleep—it’s a creative retreat filled with antique charm, artistic expression, and thoughtful hospitality. Surrounded by nature and distant mountain views, Sasara invites you into a world where time slows down. You find inspiration in every corner, whether it’s the art on the walls, the unique room designs, or the relaxing sounds of water that echo softly throughout the building.

Sasara has received national recognition, including multiple awards from Jalan and Rakuten Travel. But what keeps people coming back isn’t just the accolades—it’s the unforgettable atmosphere, the depth of tradition, and the peaceful moments that linger long after you leave.

Accommodation

You can choose from a range of rooms that reflect both traditional Japanese and Western influences. Whether you prefer a tatami-floored suite or a space with a private open-air bath, every room surrounds you with comfort and creativity. Some rooms feature views of the mountains or the town, while others immerse you in artful interiors with handmade details and soft lighting.

For special occasions, consider staying in a top-floor room with its own hinoki cypress bath. The scent of natural wood, combined with open-air mountain views, gives you a deeply personal experience of Gero’s famous hot springs—all from the privacy of your room.

Each space is quiet, welcoming, and thoughtfully designed. Whether you’re traveling alone, with a partner, or as a group, you’ll find a room that lets you slow down and fully relax.

Dining

After a long soak in the onsen, dinner becomes the highlight of your evening. Sasara’s chefs create seasonal Japanese kaiseki meals using carefully selected ingredients. At the center of these meals is premium Hida beef—soft, marbled, and flavorful. You’ll enjoy this delicacy in many forms: grilled, stewed, or thinly sliced shabu-shabu style.

Alongside the beef, you’ll taste fresh seafood, handmade side dishes, and vegetables prepared in true seasonal harmony. One of the signatures of Sasara’s cuisine is “Ryū no Hitomi,” a rare rice cultivated in Gero. This rice is sweet, aromatic, and has won national contests for its quality and taste. Cooked slowly in earthenware pots, it becomes the perfect base for your meal.

You can enjoy dinner in your room or in a private dining space, depending on your plan. Every meal is more than just food—it’s a carefully composed experience that brings together flavor, texture, and presentation in a way that reflects the seasons and the spirit of the region.

Onsen and Wellness

Gero Onsen is known as one of Japan’s top three hot spring sources. The water is gentle on your skin and body, rich in minerals, and naturally alkaline—often called “beauty water.” At Sasara, you can enjoy this healing water any time of day or night.

The large public bath sits on the top floor, offering wide views of Gero’s town and the Hida River. Soak in the indoor hinoki bath or step outside into the open-air tub made from fragrant cypress. As steam rises and the lights of the town sparkle below, you can relax in one of the most iconic bath settings in Japan.

Private open-air baths are also available. You can book a bath made from carved stone or even from a 700-year-old tree root. These spaces let you enjoy the hot spring water with your partner or family in total privacy.

All onsen areas are filled directly from the natural source and cleaned regularly. You can bathe 24 hours a day, except during cleaning hours.

Guests with Tattoos

If you have tattoos, you will not be permitted to use the public baths or private open-air onsen areas. Please understand this policy is strictly enforced.

Facilities

Sasara is more than just a place to sleep. The entire building is designed to help you unwind.

The main lobby features antique furniture, running water, and high ceilings that create a quiet, open atmosphere.

A lounge area invites you to enjoy original cocktails or just sit and listen to the sound of the indoor waterfall.

A shot bar serves drinks with a backdrop of soft jazz, perfect for winding down at the end of the night.

The front desk welcomes you with seated check-in, allowing you to start your stay without stress.

You’ll find a small shop filled with unique souvenirs, including cute “Inubobo” and “Nekobobo” character items.

Relax in a conversation room built from old timber, where you can sit back in peace and quiet.

A private karaoke room is available by reservation.

Banquet halls and private dining rooms offer spaces for small events or special meals.

Smoking rooms are available on the first floors of two wings of the building.

Activities

You can explore the artistic side of Sasara through seasonal events or simply take time to enjoy the design details throughout the ryokan. In the evening, relax with a drink at the bar, share quiet moments in the garden, or take a walk through the surrounding streets of Gero.

Additional Features

Healing Salon “soaris”

Treat yourself to aromatherapy or facial treatments using natural and organic products. All treatments are performed by hand and take place in private rooms. You can choose a facial, a body massage, or a combination of both. Each option is designed to release tension, improve circulation, and bring deep relaxation. Please arrive on time and consult the staff if you’re pregnant or have concerns.

Ganbanyoku (Hot Stone Spa)

Spend 50 minutes lying on heated stone beds, where far-infrared rays gently warm your body. This encourages detox through light perspiration and leaves you feeling refreshed. Reserve your session at check-in for a deeply relaxing way to end the day.