Do Japanese Onsens allow tattoos?

Traditionally, visitors with tattoos aren’t allowed in Japan’s onsen (natural hot springs) because of an age-old association with organized crime. However, times are changing, and more and more onsen have relaxed their policies—in some cases to accommodate tattooed foreign tourists.

Can you cover tattoos for onsen?

If your tattoo is small Then just cover it up, and you’re fine. Many onsens even offer them to guests. It may not even be necessary to cover them up, but if you want to be sure, plasters seem to be a surefire way to get around any tattoo rules.

Are there Japanese bath houses that allow tattoos?

Japan’s Most Tattoo-Friendly Onsen Town Kinosaki Onsen is a 1300-year-old onsen (hot spring) village famous for its seven different public baths and charming atmosphere. Unusually, all seven public bathhouses in Kinosaki Onsen are tattoo friendly.

Can you display tattoos in Japan?

Rules are very important in Japan, and as there is a no tattoo rule in nearly all pools, onsens and gyms, a foreigner walking up to the desk with tattoos showing is bound to cause concern. Just cover up and keep those tattoos covered and that is acceptable. If you can’t cover up, don’t go to those environments.

Are tattoo artists legal in Japan?

Allowing artists to work without a medical license. For the first time in history, the Japanese Supreme Court has acknowledged tattooing as an art rather than a medical procedure.

Can foreigners with tattoos go to onsen?

Today, having a tattoo will not prevent you from experiencing an onsen or sento. According to a 2015 study by the Japan Tourism Agency, about 30 percent of hotels and inns in the country say they would allow someone with a tattoo to use their communal baths.

Why are tattoos banned in onsen?

A visit to the sento is a chance to relax in a spacious, hot bath—or perhaps a sauna—and socialize. This social aspect, however, led many onsen and sento to prohibit tattooed guests. The Japanese taboo toward tattoos stems from their association with members of Japanese organized crime.

Are tattoos illegal in Japan 2021?

While tattoos are not illegal in Japan, the social stigma against them is very strong.

Do you have to hide tattoos in Japan?

While tattoos are not illegal, they can prevent people from getting the full Japanese experience. When using public transportation in Japan, such as trains, tourists with visible tattoos will want to keep in mind that their ink may be offensive to some of the locals.