Noguchi Ujo Monuments of Gero
There are 14 monuments inscribed with poetry at popular landmarks and sightseeing spots throughout Gero. These monuments were erected in honor of Noguchi Ujo (1882–1945), a renowned poet and lyricist who wrote some of Japan’s most beloved children’s songs.
Ujo (Noguchi’s pen name) visited Gero in 1938 and wrote a series of poems expressing his fondness for the hot spring town. Each poem references local landmarks and sightseeing spots, such as the famed ancient cedar tree of Moriminashi Hachiman Shrine.
Several of the monuments are in Ujo Park. This lushly wooded area has paved walking paths along a shallow river and offers respite from the busier commercial areas of the onsen district. There is also a bust of the poet in the park. More monuments are located near Gero Onsen Shrine, beside Mutsumi Bridge, in the train station plaza, at Gero Onsen Gassho Village, and elsewhere.