Man, what a day! I’m a forester, right? So, I’m used to chillin’ in the woods, surrounded by trees and critters. But today? Oh boy, today was a whole different ball game. I found myself in Gero, Japan. Yeah, Gero! The hot spring town. You know, the place where you can soak your worries away? Well, I didn’t get to soak much.
So, I roll into Gero, right? First thing I notice is the smell. Not bad, just... different. Like, a mix of pine and something sulfuric. I’m like, “What’s cookin’?” Turns out, it’s the onsen water. Gero is famous for its hot springs, and lemme tell ya, they’re everywhere! I’m talkin’ about the streets, the alleys, even the little shops.
I hit up Yunomachi Street first. It’s packed with these cute little ryokans. I’m thinkin’, “I should totally stay here.” But nah, I’m just passing through. I stop at this tiny shop selling onsen tamago. You know, those eggs cooked in hot spring water? I grab one, and it’s like heaven in my mouth. I’m grinning like a fool.
But then, bam! My phone buzzes. It’s my boss. He’s like, “Hey, we need you back at the forest ASAP!” I’m like, “Dude, I’m in Gero! Can’t you see I’m busy?” But no, he’s not having it. So, I’m fuming. I mean, come on! I just got here!
I decide to take a stroll down Gero’s main street, Gero Onsen Street. It’s lined with shops and food stalls. I see this old lady selling yaki imo (roasted sweet potatoes). I can’t resist. I buy one, and it’s warm and sweet. I’m munching away, feeling a bit better.
Then, I spot this group of tourists. They’re all taking selfies in front of the Gero Onsen Shrine. I’m like, “Really? You gotta take a pic with a shrine?” But hey, whatever floats their boat. I snap a quick pic too, just for the memories.
But then, I hear this loud commotion. I turn around, and there’s this guy yelling at a pigeon. Like, seriously? Who yells at a bird? The pigeon’s just chillin’, minding its own business. I can’t help but laugh. I mean, what’s next? A pigeon whisperer?
After that, I head to the Gero River. It’s beautiful, man. The water’s crystal clear, and the trees are all vibrant. I take a deep breath, trying to calm down. But then, I see this kid throwing rocks into the river. I’m like, “Dude, chill! You’re gonna scare the fish!” But he just laughs and keeps throwing. Kids, man.
Finally, I decide to hit up an onsen. I need to relax before heading back to the forest. I find one called “Yunoshimakan.” It’s got this outdoor bath with a view of the mountains. I’m soaking, and it’s like all my stress just melts away. I’m thinking, “Why can’t I do this every day?”
But then, my phone buzzes again. It’s my boss. “Where are you?” Ugh! I’m like, “Dude, I’m in a hot spring! Can’t you see I’m busy?” But he’s relentless. So, I reluctantly get out, feeling all wrinkly and annoyed.
As I’m leaving Gero, I can’t help but feel a mix of emotions. I’m mad at my boss, happy about the food, and surprised by the weirdness of the day. Gero’s a cool place, though. I mean, who knew a little town could pack so much into one day?
I hop in my car, ready to head back to the forest. But I’m already planning my next trip. Next time, I’m staying longer. Gero, you’ve got my heart. Just gotta figure out how to keep my boss off my back!