Experiences – Life – Inspiration 🇨🇭🇯🇵

Right now, Hiromi and I are on our way to Takayama, riding the train through the heart of Japan.

It’s serendipitous that Hiromi was hired as a guide for a group of Spanish tourists in Takayama. Over the years, she has dedicated herself to mastering Spanish, and I must give her kudos for that! Personally, I find myself a bit overwhelmed when I hear Spanish flowing. It can sound like a rapid-fire “tatatatataaattatataaa” to my ears—definitely not my go-to language!

As I attempt to capture the beautiful scenery with my camera, I mostly end up with motion blur. But honestly, it’s refreshing to be experiencing this picturesque route without the stress of driving.

The express train from Gifu to Takayama offers a scenic ride that captivates no matter the season. We’ll pass Gero, a town renowned for its onsens—a place we definitely need to explore more. As we journey to Takayama, the train’s onboard announcements share fascinating tidbits about the sights. One fun fact we learned before our brief stop in Gero is that it’s celebrated for its “onsen of beauty.”

The folklore surrounding Gero’s hot springs tells stories of injured birds that find solace in the healing waters. Locals have observed these birds, once wounded, would bathe in the mineral-rich pools and emerge healthy, ready to soar again. This enchanting narrative has bolstered the belief that Gero Onsen possesses miraculous curative powers—not just for humans, but for animals too.

These tales resonate deeply with Japan’s cultural reverence for nature and the wisdom it offers. If you are a fan of train travel, I wholeheartedly recommend this route! It gives you a breathtaking view of Gifu Prefecture in all its glory.

#Takayama #Gifu #Onsen #TrainTravel #JapaneseFolklore #TravelJapan #ExploreJapan