For a Japan Onsen tour, you may wonder can you go to hot springs in Japan with tattoos. Here is our guide to the Onsen in Japan with Tattoos, including the best Japanese onsens that allow tattoos, rules for tattoo-friendly onsens in Japan, and how to enjoy the Japan tattoo-friendly Onsen.
Table of Contents
1. Onsen Japan Allows Tattoos
2. In-Depth Japan Travel Resources for Tattooed Guests
3. What is an Onsen in Japan
4. Attitude towards Tattoos in Japan Onsen
5. How to Enjoy Tattoo-Friendly Onsen in Japan
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Tattooed Travelers
1. Onsens in Japan That Allow Tattoos
Can I go to hot springs in Japan with tattoos? Which Onsens in Japan allow tattoos? Here are a few of some of the best public onsens Japan has to offer, and pay a quick visit to our handpicked Japan onsen tours in the following. Feel free to contact us to tailor the tattoo-friendly onsen itinerary according to your requirements.
12 Days Kyoto - Kinosaki - Himeji - Osaka - Kanazawa - Tokyo Tour
12 days | From $ 5782
14 Days Tokyo - Nikko - Mt. Fuji - Hakone - Kyoto - Hiroshima - Nara - Osaka Tour
14 days | From $ 7355
13 Days Tokyo - Mt.Fuji - Nagano - Takayama - Kanazawa - Kyoto Tour
13 days | From $ 7440
7 Days Fukuoka - Itoshima - Kumamoto - Mt.Aso - Kurokawa - Yufuin - Beppu Tour
7 days | From $ 3675
Osaka: The Tattoo-Friendly Hub
The dynamic culinary capital of Osaka is widely recognized as one of the most welcoming cities in Japan for tattooed visitors looking to enjoy a soak. Unlike some regions where restrictions are common, Osaka boasts numerous tattoo-friendly onsen and sento (public bathhouses) that embrace inclusivity. Whether you're seeking a luxurious, modern urban spa experience, a homely local bath favored by residents, or a facility with unique therapeutic waters, Osaka tattoo friendly onsen provides fantastic options where you can relax without worry. We've compiled a list of 5 top onsens in Osaka that allow tattoos, ranging from large complexes like Solaniwa Onsen to authentic local gems. (Further Reading>>>Tattoo Friendly Onsen in Osaka)
Solaniwa Onsen (Osaka)
Solaniwa Onsen is a luxurious urban hot spring complex situated in the heart of Osaka. It is a modern facility that explicitly allows tattoos, offering a sophisticated and rejuvenating experience amidst the bustling cityscape. Boasting an array of therapeutic baths, including traditional Japanese onsen and various themed pools, Solaniwa provides a serene escape with meticulously designed relaxation zones and sauna facilities. Don't miss this Osaka tattoo onsen during your trip to Japan's culinary destination.
Tattoo Policy: Tattoo Friendly (Allows Tattoos).
Type: Luxurious Urban Hot Spring Complex (Day-use).
Address: 1 Chome-2-3 Benten, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552-0007, Japan
Fureai Onsen Yata (Osaka)
Being an Osaka onsen that allows tattoos, this spacious and accessible onsen has both indoor and outdoor baths, where you can enjoy the experience year-round. Highlights include an electric bath and a sauna available at a very low cost (around 100 yen). Notably, Fureai Onsen Yata features a barrier-free design, making it wheelchair friendly and a highly inclusive option. And you will find it rated top when checking the Fureai Onsen Yata reviews on Google.
Tattoo Policy: Fully Tattoo Friendly (No covering required).
Type: Spacious Local Public Bath/Onsen (Day-use).
Address: 6 Chome-3-16 Yata, Higashisumiyoshi Ward, Osaka, 546-0023
Healthy spa Tateba (Osaka)
Healthy spa Tateba is a super public bath conveniently located near a JR station in Osaka. This homely, compact bathhouse is famous for its explicit welcome to tattooed guests, even featuring a sign that reads: "Welcome tattoos everyone! Please come in." Facilities include a cold bath, a "stretching" bath, an electric shock bath, a hinoki cypress bath, three jacuzzi spots, and a high-temperature sauna. As one of the best tattoo-friendly onsens in Osaka, it's an ideal place to experience authentic, local onsen culture and enjoy the refreshing switch between warm and cold baths.
Tattoo Policy: Fully Tattoo Friendly (Explicitly welcomes all tattoos).
Type: Homely Local Public Bath/Sento (Day-use).
Address: 2 Chome-14-19 Sakuragawa, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0022, Japan
Irifune Onsen (Osaka)
Irifune Onsen is a beloved local public bath that is fully welcoming to guests with tattoos of all sizes. It provides an authentic, no-fuss Osaka bathing experience away from the major tourist crowds.
Known for its clean facilities and traditional atmosphere, the bathhouse features a variety of pools, including a classic electric current bath (denki buro), which provides a unique tingling sensation that locals enjoy for muscle relief. This onsen in Osaka that allows tattoos is a perfect spot for travelers who want to experience the true, everyday public bath culture of Osaka without any worry about their body art.
Tattoo Policy: Fully Tattoo Friendly (No covering required).
Type: Day-use Sento (Public Bath).
Address (approx.): 3 Chome-7-14 Tengachaya, Nishinari Ward, Osaka, 557-0004, Japan
Utopia Shiratama Hot Spring (Osaka)
Despite the name "Hot Spring," this is another fully tattoo-friendly public bathhouse (Sento) in Osaka. It is particularly popular for its spacious, modern, and clean environment.
Utopia Shiratama stands out for offering a good variety of different baths, including a high-temperature bath, a cold bath, a jet bath, and a sauna. It provides a comfortable and comprehensive bathing experience, so it is an excellent choice for tattooed visitors looking for quality relaxation in the city.
Tattoo Policy: Fully Tattoo Friendly (No covering required).
Type: Day-use Sento (Public Bath).
Address (approx.): 5 Chome-12-16 Minamitsumori, Nishinari Ward, Osaka, 557-0063, Japan
Kyoto: Blending Tradition with Acceptance
The historic heart of Japan, Kyoto, is a city where centuries-old traditions meet modern openness. While large-scale natural onsen are less common here than in volcanic regions, Kyoto is home to a wealth of well-preserved sento (public bathhouses) that wholeheartedly welcome tattooed travelers. These traditional bathhouses offer an authentic glimpse into local Japanese culture. From the oldest bathhouse in the city to mountain escapes with private soaking options, Kyoto tattoo friendly onsen also provides excellent, inclusive spots for post-sightseeing relaxation. (Further Reading>>>Kyoto Onsen Tattoo Friendly)
Funaoka Onsen (Kyoto)
This highly celebrated bathhouse is Kyoto's oldest and most famous Sento, boasting stunning architectural features, including intricately carved wooden ceilings and a unique dressing room decorated with scenes from Mount Fuji. Funaoka Onsen offers a wide variety of bathing options in a gorgeous traditional setting, including a wooden bath, a giant main bath, an extra-hot bath, and an outdoor bath (rotenburo). Historically significant for installing Japan's first electric bath, Funaoka Onsen is a beloved neighborhood institution that warmly welcomes all guests, including those with tattoos.
Tattoo Policy: Fully Tattoo Friendly (No covering required).
Type: Day-use Sento (Public Bath).
Address: 82-1 Murasakino Minamifunaokacho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8225
Sauna no Umeyu (Kyoto)
This historic Sento (public bathhouse), located about a 10-minute bus ride from Kyoto Station, is one of the city's most famous tattoo-friendly spots. Sauna no Umeyu is highly popular among younger crowds and tourists due to its unique, retro-cool atmosphere and welcoming stance.
It features a variety of baths, including a medicinal bath and an electric bath, a sauna, and a cold bath, perfect for a full relaxation cycle. Most notably, the bathhouse proudly welcomes all tattoos and even has an on-site tattoo studio on the second floor, a clear signal of its inclusive policy.
Tattoo Policy: Fully Tattoo Friendly (No covering required).
Type: Day-use Sento (Public Bath).
Address (approx.): 175 Iwataki-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Kurama Onsen (Near Kyoto - Private Option Available)
Located in the scenic mountains north of Kyoto, Kurama Onsen offers a true onsen (natural hot spring) experience with stunning open-air baths (rotemburo) amidst nature.
While the main public outdoor bath may require covering if your tattoos are large (it is an onsen resort, which are sometimes stricter), Kurama is well-known for its private rental baths (Kashikiri Onsen), which are a perfect and guaranteed stress-free tattoo-friendly onsen near Kyoto. Even if your tattoo is small, the tranquil location and natural sulfur spring water make it a worthwhile side trip from Kyoto.
Tattoo Policy: Public areas may require covering (inquire upon arrival). Private/Rental baths are available and fully accommodate tattooed guests.
Type: Onsen Resort (Day-use and overnight stays available).
Address (approx.): 520 Kuramahonmachi, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1111, Japan
Hakone: Scenic Hot Springs with Strategic Options
The volcanic area of Hakone is synonymous with traditional Japanese hot spring culture, offering incredible views of Mount Fuji and mineral-rich waters. However, being a more traditional onsen destination, public bath policies can be stricter than in large cities. Is Hakone onsen tattoo-friendly? The best strategy for tattooed visitors in Hakone is to seek out facilities known for their inclusive approach, those offering private baths (Kashikiri), or those catering specifically to international guests. With a little planning, you can easily enjoy a Hakone tattoo friendly onsen. (Further Reading>>>Hakone Onsen Guide)
Tenzan Tohji-kyo Onsen (Hakone)
Tenzan Onsen has long been considered the most famous and reliable day-trip onsen in Hakone that welcomes tattooed guests. This vast, rustic complex is dedicated to toji (hot spring cure) and offers multiple beautiful outdoor baths (rotenburo) set amongst the surrounding nature.
While Tenzan is generally accepting, they do have a specific rule: they allow only one tattooed person per visiting group. This is a small consideration for the chance to enjoy a genuine and beautiful Hakone onsen experience. You are also asked to keep tattoos covered in the general public areas (lobby, restaurant).
Tattoo Policy: Conditionally Tattoo Friendly (Generally allows one tattooed person per group; cover-up required in common areas).
Type: Day-use Onsen Complex.
Address (approx.): 208 Yumotojaya, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa 250-0312, Japan
Hakone Yuryo (Hakone - Private Bath Focus)
Located just a short shuttle bus ride from Hakone-Yumoto Station, Hakone Yuryo is a popular facility specializing in private rental baths (Kashikiri Buro). While the large public baths may not be fully tattoo-friendly, the option to rent one of their numerous private open-air baths provides the ultimate guarantee of a stress-free and intimate soaking experience for tattooed visitors. This is the most recommended option for couples or families with tattoos who prefer guaranteed privacy.
Tattoo Policy: Private Bath Focus (Rentable Kashikiri Onsen are fully accommodating; inquire about public bath rules).
Type: Day-use Onsen with Private Rooms.
Address (approx.): 4 Tonosawa, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0315, Japan
Fuji-Hakone Guest House (Hakone)
This welcoming, family-run guesthouse offers a budget-friendly option in the Sengokuhara region of Hakone. Crucially, Fuji-Hakone Guest House is one of the very few establishments that is fully tattoo friendly with no restrictions for staying guests. The mineral-rich water is sourced directly from the Owakudani Volcano. You can reserve time slots for their private onsen baths, ensuring a relaxing and authentic hot spring experience without any need for cover-ups or privacy concerns.
Tattoo Policy: Fully Tattoo Friendly (No covering required).
Type: Tattoo-Friendly Guesthouse/Minshuku with Private Onsen Baths.
Address (approx.): 912 Sengokuhara, Hakone, Kanagawa 250-0631, Japan
Tokyo: Modern Baths and Urban Escapes
As a bustling global metropolis, Tokyo features a diverse array of bathing facilities, primarily sento (public bathhouses) and modern spa complexes. These facilities are often more progressive in their policies than rural onsen, recognizing that tattoos are a global trend, not just a negative cultural symbol. Tattoo Friendly Onsens in Tokyo have excellent options for relaxing, from innovative, high-tech baths to historic local favorites. (Further Reading>>>Tokyo Tattoo Friendly Onsen)
Hisamatsu-yu (Tokyo)
Within this modernist-style location, discover a range of amenities including carbonated baths, seasonal pools, jets, sauna facilities, and a rejuvenating massage salon. The natural water from this tattoo-friendly Onsen comes from a sodium monochloride salt source extracted from 1500m underground. The baths also boast a captivating display of projection mapping lights dancing across the ceilings and walls, drawing inspiration from the fluid movements of hot water. It adds an entertaining touch for guests to enjoy while they soak in this Tokyo tattoo-friendly onsen.
Tattoo Policy: Fully Tattoo Friendly (No covering required).
Type: Modern Public Bath/Onsen.
Address: 4 Chome-32-15 Sakuradai, Nerima City, Tokyo 176-0002, Japan
Kosugiyu (Tokyo - Suginami Ward)
Located in the popular, bohemian Kōenji area, Kosugiyu is a cherished, long-standing neighborhood sento (public bath) that has been beautifully modernized and is fully tattoo-friendly, making it a reliable choice for travelers staying in Central Tokyo. This facility features a variety of unique baths, including a signature milk bath (a micro-bubble bath known for softening skin) and a therapeutic medicated bath. Kosugiyu offers an authentic, warm, and convenient experience for tattooed guests seeking relaxation after exploring the trendy areas of the city. And don't miss this onsen in Tokyo that allows tattoos!
Tattoo Policy: Fully Tattoo Friendly (No covering required).
Type: Traditional and Modernized Public Bath (Sento).
Address (approx.): 3 Chome-32-2 Suginami City, Tokyo 166-0002, Japan
Kanazawa: Samurai Heritage and Welcoming Sentos
Kanazawa, celebrated for its well-preserved samurai and geisha districts and the stunning Kenrokuen Garden, may be steeped in tradition, but its local bathing culture is surprisingly modern and inclusive. While fewer large onsen resorts exist here compared to Hakone, the city is rich with local sento (public bathhouses) and modern facilities that embrace tattooed guests. Focusing on these Kanazawa tattoo friendly onsen spots ensures a relaxing soak that respects the city's unique blend of history and contemporary life.
MATSUNOYU Sento (Kanazawa)
Located near the historic Nagamachi Samurai District, Matsu-no-Yu is a local sento that openly welcomes tattooed individuals, a rarity and a point of pride in the region. Although the original post-war bathhouse was recently refurbished, it retains a classic local atmosphere. The bath is particularly notable for the unique tile walls featuring Kutani-ware, a traditional, brightly colored Kanazawa ceramic craft, making it a beautiful and culturally rich place to relax. It also offers a paid sauna option.
Tattoo Policy: Fully Tattoo Friendly (Openly welcomes tattoos).
Type: Traditional Local Sento (Public Bath).
Address (approx.): 1F Seseragi Building, 1-5-56 Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Yuwaku Onsen - Shirasagi no Yu (Near Kanazawa)
For visitors seeking a genuine onsen experience near the city center, Shirasagi no Yu in the nearby Yuwaku Onsen village is a fantastic day-trip option. This is a public onsen that is known to be tattoo friendly and offers genuine hot spring water rich in minerals, perfect for therapeutic bathing. While it requires a short bus trip from Kanazawa Station, the reward is an authentic and relaxing communal hot spring experience in a charming historic area.
Tattoo Policy: Fully Tattoo Friendly (No covering required).
Type: Day-use Public Onsen (Natural Hot Spring).
Address (approx.): 139-2 Yuwakumachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-1123, Japan
Fukuoka: Kyushu's Gateway to Relaxing Baths
As the dynamic gateway to the Kyushu region, Fukuoka offers a unique blend of modern city life and accessible traditional culture. While some of the large super sento or onsen complexes may maintain strict no-tattoo policies, the city is home to several smaller, local sento that are far more welcoming. For guaranteed relaxation without concern, you can also look to specific hotel accommodations or private rental baths if you want to enjoy the Fukuoka tattoo friendly onsen.
Azumayu (Fukuoka - Hakata Ward)
Azumayu is a classic, no-fuss neighborhood sento located in the Hakata Ward of Fukuoka City. As a traditional public bathhouse focused on local community life, it is known to be tattoo-friendly, often accepting guests with body art where larger, more tourist-oriented venues might not. This bath provides a straightforward, authentic Japanese bathing experience, featuring simple amenities like an aerated bath and an electric bath (Denki Buro). You will love it if you are seeking a genuine local experience without the pressure of strict rules.
Tattoo Policy: Fully Tattoo Friendly (Known to be accepting).
Type: Traditional Local Sento (Public Bath).
Address (approx.): 1 Chome-29-3 Chiyo, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0044, Japan
Hotel WBF Grande Hakata (Fukuoka - Private Bathing)
For guaranteed privacy and comfort, Hotel WBF Grande Hakata is an excellent choice. While the hotel offers a public bath for guests, its main appeal for tattooed visitors is the availability of private onsen bathing (Kashikiri Buro) options, which can be rented exclusively. This eliminates any concern about tattoo visibility and allows guests to enjoy the relaxing spring water experience in complete seclusion. It is a highly recommended solution for couples or families who prioritize a worry-free soak.
Tattoo Policy: Private Bathing Allowed (The hotel offers private rental onsen).
Type: Hotel with Private Onsen Options.
Address (approx.): 2 Chome-3-1 Noguchi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0012, Japan
Beppu: The World's Most Welcoming Onsen City
Located on the island of Kyushu, Beppu boasts the world's second-largest volume of thermal spring water and is arguably the most tattoo-friendly destination in Japan. The city government and numerous communal bathhouses (Kyōdō-yokujō) have adopted policies to welcome all guests, including those with tattoos, making it a stress-free environment to enjoy authentic Japanese hot spring culture. (Further Reading>>>Beppu Onsen Japan Guide)
Hyotan Onsen (Beppu)
A large, multi-faceted onsen complex famous for being the only hot spring in Japan to be awarded a Michelin 3-star rating. Hyotan Onsen features a wide variety of baths, including large open-air baths (rotenburo), private family baths, and a unique hot sand bath (sunamushi-buro). Critically, it is a Beppu tattoo friendly onsen and requires no cover-up, making it a comprehensive and relaxing destination for tattooed travelers.
Tattoo Policy: Fully Tattoo Friendly (No covering required).
Type: Large Day-Use Onsen Complex with Sand Bath.
Address (approx.): 559-1 Kannawa, Beppu, Oita 874-0041, Japan
Takegawara Onsen (Beppu)
Takegawara Onsen is a historic landmark and one of Beppu's oldest and most iconic public baths, featuring a striking traditional wooden façade built in 1879. It is most famous for its deeply traditional hot sand bath experience, where bathers are buried in naturally heated sand, as well as its classic public hot spring bath. As a beloved municipal bath, it is reliably tattoo-friendly and offers a truly authentic, old-school Japanese bathing experience right in the city center.
Tattoo Policy: Fully Tattoo Friendly (Known to be accepting).
Type: Historic Public Bath & Hot Sand Bath.
Address (approx.): 16-23 Motomachi, Beppu, Oita 874-0045, Japan
Hokkaido: The Land of Volcanic Springs and Open Skies
As Japan's northernmost island, Hokkaido is blessed with rich volcanic activity, resulting in some of the country's most mineral-dense and therapeutic hot springs, particularly in the Noboribetsu area. Hokkaido's major resort towns are often accommodating to international tourists, making many facilities, especially those that offer private bathing or large day-use onsen, highly accessible to tattooed travelers. So you can easily find the best hokkaido tattoo friendly onsen that suits your preference. (Further Reading>>>Hokkaido Onsen Resort)
Kashoutei Hanaya (Noboribetsu)
This is a highly-regarded, small 21-guestroom ryokan (traditional inn) in Noboribetsu that is explicitly tattoo-friendly. It provides a genuine, intimate ryokan experience with minimal fuss about body art. The inn features an open-air bath and indoor baths supplied by 100% free-flowing sulfur spring water from Jigokudani (Hell Valley). Since it is smaller than the large resorts, it offers a quieter, more personal atmosphere, making it a perfect Noboribetsu tattoo friendly onsen to enjoy the famous local waters 24/7 without worrying about being stared at. (Further Reading>>>Noboribetsu Hot Spring)
Tattoo Policy: Fully Tattoo Friendly (No covering required for staying guests).
Type: Small Traditional Ryokan (Inn) Onsen.
Address: 134 Noboribetsuonsencho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido 059-0551
Dai-ichi Takimotokan (Noboribetsu - Private Bath Focus)
Dai-ichi Takimotokan is a historic and massive onsen resort, one of the largest in Hokkaido, located right near the famous Jigokudani "Hell Valley." It boasts an incredible 35 baths fed by five different therapeutic springs (sulfur, alum, iron, salt, etc.). While its sprawling public Grand Bath is generally not fully tattoo-friendly (guests may be asked to cover up), this popular ryokan provides private bathing options that specifically accommodate tattooed guests, allowing you to experience the wide variety of its unique healing waters.
Tattoo Policy: Private Bathing Allowed (Offers private onsen options for tattooed guests; public baths may require covering).
Type: Large Historic Onsen Resort with Private Options.
Address: 55, Noboribetsu-Onsencho Noboribetsu, Japan 059-0551
Hōheikyō Hot Spring (Sapporo)
Located amidst mountainous woodlands near Sapporo, Hōheikyō Hot Spring is a premier day-use onsen known for being fully tattoo friendly with no restrictions. Its main attraction is a magnificent open-air experience with large, gorgeous stone baths featuring natural wood decorations. Hoheikyo is famous for using 100% natural, free-flowing hot spring water. Unusually, this tattoo friendly onsen in Sapporo is also known for offering high-quality, authentic Indian curry and jingisukan (Japanese grilled mutton) as dining options, adding a unique twist to the experience.
Tattoo Policy: Fully Tattoo Friendly (No covering required).
Type: Day-use Public Onsen with Large Rotenburo.
Address: 608-2 Jōzankei, Minami Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 061-2301
The extensive list above proves that enjoying Japan's therapeutic hot springs is absolutely possible for tattooed travelers. From the explicitly welcoming public bathhouses of Osaka and Beppu to the guaranteed privacy of rental baths in Hakone and Kyoto, options are plentiful and diverse. Which one do you think is the best tattoo-friendly onsen in Japan?
2. In-Depth Japan Travel Resources for Tattooed Guests
For travelers who prefer day trips or want to find more options beyond the curated list, these resources provide essential tools and recommendations.
Day-Trip Onsen (Higaeri Onsen) for Tattooed Guests
For non-staying visitors (higaeri), many facilities offer day-use access to their hot springs. This is a common and often cheaper way to enjoy a quality onsen experience.
Kinosaki Onsen (Hyogo Prefecture)
This entire historic onsen town is perhaps the most tattoo-friendly destination in Japan. All seven public bathhouses (soto-yu) in Kinosaki allow tattoos of all sizes, making it an ideal choice for a day of hot spring hopping (soto-yu meguri) while wearing a traditional yukata. (A longer day trip from Osaka/Kyoto).
Yamato no Yu (Chiba)
Located in Chiba Prefecture, this tattoo friendly onsen near Tokyo provides an easy and accessible day trip from central Tokyo. Yamato no Yu is a large, modern facility that allows tattoos and features various indoor and outdoor baths, including a medicinal bath, saunas, and relaxation rooms.
Izumi Tenku no Yu (Haneda Airport)
This unique onsen is directly connected to Haneda Airport, making it perfect for travelers arriving or departing. It is fully tattoo friendly and operates 24 hours (with a short cleaning break), offering outdoor baths with views, sometimes of Mount Fuji or the surrounding cityscape.
Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku (Gunma)
Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku is famous for its stunning, large, mixed-gender open-air baths (rotenburo) set along a river in Gunma Prefecture. While not fully tattoo friendly in the traditional sense, tattooed guests are permitted access as long as they wear a bathing garment (yuami-gi), which can be rented at the desk. This is a common and reliable compromise for large tattoos.
Kannawa Mushiyu (Beppu)
Located within the Kannawa district of Beppu, this facility offers a unique type of steam bath (Mushiyu) rather than a water bath. Guests lie on a bed of fragrant medicinal herbs, utilizing the steam generated by the hot spring for a therapeutic experience. It is a unique and fully tattoo friendly day-use option in Beppu.
How to Use Tattoo-Friendly Onsen Search Tools
To find additional options or check the most current policy of a specific facility, leverage dedicated online tools and databases:
Use Search Keywords: When searching on Google or booking sites, use key terms like:
"Tattoo-Friendly Onsen"
"Tattoo OK Onsen Japan"
"Private Onsen with Tattoo"
In Japanese: 刺青 OK 温泉 (Shisei OK Onsen) or タトゥー 許可 温泉 (Tattoo Kyoka Onsen)
Specialized Websites: Several third-party websites and apps are maintained by international residents and travelers specifically for this purpose. These sites often use a simple rating system to show if a facility is "Fully Friendly," "Cover-Up Required," or "Private Bath Only."
Check Foreign Traveler Reviews: Consult recent reviews on platforms like Google Maps or Booking.com. Travelers who mention "tattoo" often provide the most up-to-date and reliable information on a facility's current policy.
Confirm the Policy: If you book a ryokan or hotel, it is always the safest practice to call or email the facility directly to confirm their current tattoo policy, especially if you plan to use the public bathing areas.
3. What is an Onsen (温泉) in Japan?
Japan's unique geological structure, resting on tectonic plates, blesses the country with an abundance of geothermally heated groundwater. This natural phenomenon gives rise to Onsen (温泉), or natural hot springs.
These hot springs are far more than just hot pools; they contain rich concentrations of minerals, such as sulfur, iron, and salt, known for their centuries-old soothing and therapeutic properties. Historically, onsen served as vital centers for medical treatment and communal leisure for local communities and traveling pilgrims.
Today, operating and owning a hot spring facility has become a significant cultural and economic mainstay across Japan, leading to the development of hundreds of onsen inns and facilities (ryokan). While hot springs are plentiful throughout the country, the northern region of Hokkaido is particularly famous for having the highest concentration and variety of potent, high-quality onsen areas.
4. Attitude towards Tattoos in Japan Onsen
The reluctance of many Japanese onsen and public bathhouses to accept guests with tattoos is rooted deeply in the country's history.
For centuries, body tattoos (irezumi) have carried strong negative cultural connotations in Japan, having been historically associated with crime, notably the Yakuza (organized crime syndicates), dating back as far as the Nara period (710–794 A.D.). Because of this cultural linkage, many traditional facilities adopted blanket bans to ensure the comfort and safety of all guests.
Shifting Policies
However, as Japan welcomes increasing numbers of international tourists who often view tattoos as a form of art or personal expression, the attitude is rapidly evolving:
Tourist Areas: Most popular and highly-touristed public onsen (especially those listed in Section 1) are becoming more tattoo-friendly, often prioritizing global tourism over strict adherence to old rules.
Alternative Solutions: Many private onsen resorts retain more conservative rules but now commonly allow guests to use private/family baths (Kashikiri Onsen) as a compromise.
The Recommendation: While acceptance is growing, it is still recommended that travelers check the individual onsen's rules before visiting, as policies can vary dramatically between a modern city sento and a secluded traditional ryokan.
5. How to Enjoy the Japan Tattoo Friendly Onsen
Experiencing an onsen is a peaceful and traditional activity. Even at facilities that welcome tattoos, following the established rules and etiquette shows respect for Japanese culture and other bathers.
Essential Onsen Rules and Etiquette:
Cleanse Thoroughly Before Entering: Always shower and wash your entire body before stepping into the main communal bath water. Use the provided soap, shampoo, and stool at the washing stations. This is the single most important rule.
Enter Slowly and Relax: The water is typically very hot (around 40-44 °C or 104-111°F). Enter slowly and deliberately. The onsen is meant to provide a relaxing and calming experience, so just bathe slowly!
Never Submerge Your Towel: The small hand towel (kamae-nui) is for washing and drying off afterward. Do not let it touch the bath water. You should either set it on the side of the bath or fold it up and place it atop your head.
Store Personal Belongings: Do not bring personal belongings, clothing, or your main bath towel into the bathing area. Store them within a locker or leave them in your accommodations.
Dry Off Before Leaving: Use your small kamae-nui towel to dry yourself as much as possible before returning to the changing room. This prevents puddles on the changing room floor.
Post-Bathing Advice: It is traditionally advised not to shower immediately after bathing in a hot spring; simply dry yourself to maximize the beneficial effects of the mineral water on the skin.
Health Precautions: Those who are feeling unwell, displaying symptoms of illness, or have high blood pressure/other health conditions should take extra precautions or avoid the onsen. Exit the pool immediately if you begin to feel nauseous.
Maintain Courtesy: Avoid excessive movement or splashing. Enjoy yourself, but remain friendly and courteous towards those who share the baths with you.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Tattooed Travelers to Japan
Even with a list of welcoming onsen, many travelers prefer to know alternative strategies or have common cultural questions answered before visiting. Below are essential FAQs for navigating Japan's bathing culture with tattoos.
Q: What are my options if my tattoo is too large for the onsen's public bath?
If a fully tattoo-friendly public bath is unavailable, or if your tattoo is simply too large to cover, you have two primary alternative solutions:
Tattoo Cover-Up Stickers/Patches:
The Method: These are specialized, flesh-toned adhesive patches designed to be waterproof and conceal tattoos completely.
Usage: They are effective for one or two small to medium-sized tattoos. You must ensure the patches are applied correctly to prevent peeling when submerged in water.
Caution: If your tattoo is very large (e.g., a full sleeve or back piece), patches may be impractical, costly, or insufficient.
Availability: Many welcoming facilities, especially those that require covering, will sell these patches at the front desk. You can also purchase them online before your trip.
Private or Family Onsen (Kashikiri/Kazoku Onsen):
The Best Solution: This is the most guaranteed, stress-free option for any tattooed traveler, regardless of the size or location of the tattoo. It involves renting a small, separate bathing room for a set duration (typically 45 to 60 minutes).
Usage: Since you are in a private space, tattoo rules generally do not apply. This is an ideal solution for couples, families, or those seeking maximum privacy.
Finding Them: Many ryokan (traditional inns) that do not allow tattoos in their main public bath offer private baths that guests can reserve. Day-use facilities like those found in Hakone or Beppu also often offer hourly rentals.
Q: What is the best and most private way to enjoy an onsen with tattoos?
The most secure and private method is to use a Private or Family Onsen (Kashikiri Onsen or Kazoku Onsen).
100% Guaranteed: When you book a private bath, the space is exclusively yours for the rental period. This completely bypasses any public tattoo rules or concerns about etiquette, offering peace of mind.
Best for Large Tattoos: This is the only reliable option if your body art is too extensive to be covered by patches.
Where to Find Them: Look for ryokan that offer rooms with an in-room rotenburo (private outdoor bath attached to your room). This is the ultimate luxury and convenience. Alternatively, many day-use onsen facilities offer kashikiri baths for hourly rental.
Q: What is the difference between Sento (錢湯) and Onsen (温泉), and how do their tattoo policies differ?
Understanding the difference can help you choose the right bathhouse.
| Feature | Onsen (温泉) - Hot Spring | Sento (錢湯) - Public Bath |
| Water Source | Must use naturally heated geothermal spring water (minerals are key). | Uses heated tap water (like a large communal bathtub). |
| Location | Typically located in resort towns (Beppu, Hakone, Noboribetsu). | Found in cities and neighborhoods (used for daily washing by locals). |
| Atmosphere | Focus on nature, relaxation, and therapeutic properties. | Focus on practicality and cleanliness. |
| Tattoo Policy | Varied: Resorts catering to tourists are increasingly friendly. Check the policy individually. | Stricter: Often operate under traditional/local rules and are frequently tattoo-prohibitive. |
Advice for Tattooed Guests:
Focus on Onsen: As a tattooed traveler, you should primarily look for Onsen facilities, especially those in resort areas or large, tourist-friendly complexes, as they are far more likely to have clear, welcoming policies.
Be Cautious with Sento: Neighborhood Sento are less likely to have relaxed their rules for tourists. Always assume a Sento does not allow tattoos unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Don't worry about being prohibited from entering the Onsen in Japan. Contact us for a private Japan onsen tour, and we will take you to the tattoo-friendly onsen.
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