- 2023.11.24
-
Autumn leaves, hot springs, and tattoos!
A tattoo can be a form of creativity, self-expression and maybe even a reminder of a past memory or important lesson, but unfortunately in Japan, its long history connected to illegal organizations for hundreds of years, makes it still a touchy subject (although it is slowly changing). One of the places you will feel this is when you are visiting a public hot spring–an experience worth having in Japan, especially during the cozy, chilly season like autumn. So, whether you have a small smiley face on your wrist or a whole sleeve of patterns and designs, here is a guide that is hopefully insightful and even encouraging!
Can people with tattoos enter public hot springs?
Unfortunately, it is not possible most of the time (but keep reading, as there are options)! Basically, the first point to note is that policies can differ at each hot spring facility, so I always recommend calling in advance.
What if my tattoo is small enough to cover?
Many hot springs will allow entry if your tattoo is small enough to cover with a bandage or cloth (rare, but I have seen some places even selling tattoo covers for you to use). For full transparency though, I always recommend calling in advance, instead of hiding without telling. It is always best to visit a place where you know you are welcome (even if you have to hide your tattoo), rather than hope that no one notices and risk the consequences (for example, being denied entry).
What if my tattoo is too big to cover?
In this case, look for facilities that have a private hot spring. Many times, the facility will not let you in the public bath, but allow you to use the private one if available, since it is totally reserved for you and your group. Here, you may think that if you’re allowed in the private bath, why is there a problem using the public one? Well, from the facility’s point of view, they are most likely concerned about having other customers complain if they see someone with a tattoo in the public bath (since it is still stigmatized due to its history). That’s why some places will allow you to use the private bath because it eliminates that risk.
However, some facilities are very strict and extra cautious as another customer may complain just by seeing you in the same building. So, they can deny entry to the entire facility even if they have a private bath. Again, always double check beforehand.
Another option is to look for hot spring facilities that allow you to wear swim suits. This will enable you to cover your tattoos even if it is large, for example, under a rashguard.
What else should I keep in mind if I’m traveling to Japan with a tattoo?
Be prepared to cover your tattoos in public spaces, do your research in advance and communicate with places you visit (hot springs, accommodations, etc.) to ensure they are okay with it. If you’re at a temple or sacred site, covering your tattoos is a sign of respect and would be very much appreciated.
Does that mean no Japanese person has any tattoos?
Not at all! If you visit big cities like Tokyo, you will see Japanese people (especially the younger generation) having tattoos here and there. However, people carry a level of cultural sensitivity, oftentimes making sure it is small enough to cover or easily hidden under clothes.
Any tattoo-friendly hot springs in Kochi?
Glad you asked! Befu Gorge Onsen allows visitors with tattoos to use the private bath with no issues. It’s absolutely worth visiting especially after you’ve explored the nearby Befu Gorge with its vibrant autumn foliage!
Befu Gorge Onsen
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Vg16FfZYfCGKveNL9
https://visitkochijapan.com/en/see-and-do/10054
Can people with tattoos enter public hot springs?
Unfortunately, it is not possible most of the time (but keep reading, as there are options)! Basically, the first point to note is that policies can differ at each hot spring facility, so I always recommend calling in advance.
What if my tattoo is small enough to cover?
Many hot springs will allow entry if your tattoo is small enough to cover with a bandage or cloth (rare, but I have seen some places even selling tattoo covers for you to use). For full transparency though, I always recommend calling in advance, instead of hiding without telling. It is always best to visit a place where you know you are welcome (even if you have to hide your tattoo), rather than hope that no one notices and risk the consequences (for example, being denied entry).
What if my tattoo is too big to cover?
In this case, look for facilities that have a private hot spring. Many times, the facility will not let you in the public bath, but allow you to use the private one if available, since it is totally reserved for you and your group. Here, you may think that if you’re allowed in the private bath, why is there a problem using the public one? Well, from the facility’s point of view, they are most likely concerned about having other customers complain if they see someone with a tattoo in the public bath (since it is still stigmatized due to its history). That’s why some places will allow you to use the private bath because it eliminates that risk.
However, some facilities are very strict and extra cautious as another customer may complain just by seeing you in the same building. So, they can deny entry to the entire facility even if they have a private bath. Again, always double check beforehand.
Another option is to look for hot spring facilities that allow you to wear swim suits. This will enable you to cover your tattoos even if it is large, for example, under a rashguard.
What else should I keep in mind if I’m traveling to Japan with a tattoo?
Be prepared to cover your tattoos in public spaces, do your research in advance and communicate with places you visit (hot springs, accommodations, etc.) to ensure they are okay with it. If you’re at a temple or sacred site, covering your tattoos is a sign of respect and would be very much appreciated.
Does that mean no Japanese person has any tattoos?
Not at all! If you visit big cities like Tokyo, you will see Japanese people (especially the younger generation) having tattoos here and there. However, people carry a level of cultural sensitivity, oftentimes making sure it is small enough to cover or easily hidden under clothes.
Any tattoo-friendly hot springs in Kochi?
Glad you asked! Befu Gorge Onsen allows visitors with tattoos to use the private bath with no issues. It’s absolutely worth visiting especially after you’ve explored the nearby Befu Gorge with its vibrant autumn foliage!
Befu Gorge Onsen
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Vg16FfZYfCGKveNL9
https://visitkochijapan.com/en/see-and-do/10054
