Tattoo-Friendly Onsen in Japan for a Relaxing Experience
Japan’s traditional onsen (hot springs) culture is highly revered, but travelers with tattoos may face some challenges in finding welcoming spots. Fortunately, some onsen across Japan embrace inclusivity and allow tattooed guests to soak in their mineral-rich waters. Here’s a list of seven tattoo-friendly onsen in Japan, with information on entry fees and where to find more details.
Gora Kadan (Hakone, Kanagawa)
Nestled in the scenic town of Hakone, Gora Kadan is a renowned ryokan offering an exquisite blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern luxury. Guests can indulge in private open-air baths with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and meticulously landscaped gardens. The ryokan’s policy permits guests with tattoos to enjoy the private onsen facilities, ensuring a serene and exclusive experience.
Website: gorakadan.com
Price: About ¥90,000 per night (includes meals and private onsen access)
Amanemu (Shima, Mie)
Situated in the tranquil Ise-Shima National Park, Amanemu offers a contemporary interpretation of the Japanese onsen experience. Each suite and villa features its own private onsen, allowing guests with tattoos to relax in complete privacy. The resort’s minimalist design harmonizes with the natural surroundings, providing a peaceful retreat with panoramic views of Ago Bay.
Website: aman.com/resorts/amanemu
Price: Starting from ¥120,000 per night
Hoshinoya Tokyo (Tokyo)
Located in the heart of Tokyo, Hoshinoya Tokyo offers an urban ryokan experience with a luxurious twist. The hotel features a stunning open-air onsen on the top floor, exclusively for guests. While the public onsen areas may have restrictions regarding tattoos, upon request guests can opt for private bathing experiences that offer comfort and privacy.
Website: https://hoshinoresorts.com/en/hotels/hoshinoyatokyo/
Price: About ¥80,000 per night
Kusatsu Onsen Otakinoyu (Gunma)
Known for its unique “yumomi” water-cooling method, Kusatsu Onsen Otakinoyu in Gunma offers stunning facilities and a warm atmosphere. Tattooed visitors are welcome to use the various pools, which include wooden and waterfall baths, ideal for relaxation and healing. The thermal spring is among Japan’s most acidic, contributing to its therapeutic benefits.
Website: https://onsen-kusatsu.com/ohtakinoyu/en/
Price: ¥900 per adult
Shirahama Onsen Sakinoyu (Wakayama)
One of the oldest onsen in Japan, Shirahama Onsen Sakinoyu is a seaside hot spring where you can enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean. This open-air bath offers a unique coastal experience, and its tattoo-friendly policy means all guests are welcome to relax in the rich mineral waters.
Website: wakayama-kanko.or.jp
Price: ¥500 per adult
Kinosaki Onsen Goshono-Yu (Hyogo)
Located in the charming onsen town of Kinosaki, Goshono-Yu is famed for its stunning waterfall view, creating a serene bathing experience. Tattooed visitors can enjoy its indoor and outdoor baths, and the town’s welcoming vibe makes it an excellent destination for relaxation.
Website: kinosaki-spa.gr.jp
Price: ¥800 per adult (or ¥1,300 for a one-day pass to all seven onsen in Kinosaki)
Oedo Onsen Monogatari (Tokyo)
This Edo-themed onsen in Odaiba, Tokyo, offers a delightful experience with multiple baths, a footbath area and traditional Japanese entertainment. Although the main baths are tattoo-friendly, they request tattooed guests to cover larger tattoos. However, smaller tattoos are generally accepted without coverings.
Website: daiba.ooedoonsen.jp
Price: ¥2,500-¥2,800 per adult (varies by day)
Noboribetsu Onsen Dai-Ichi Takimotokan (Hokkaido)
In the volcanic hot spring town of Noboribetsu, Dai-Ichi Takimotokan offers seven types of baths, each drawing from different hot spring sources. Known for its healing waters, this onsen embraces visitors with tattoos, allowing them to fully enjoy the unique thermal landscapes of Hokkaido.
Website: takimotokan.co.jp
Price: ¥2,000 per adult (day use)
Note: Policies regarding tattoos can vary, even within establishments that offer private facilities. It’s advisable to contact the ryokan or hotel directly to confirm their current policies and to make necessary arrangements for private onsen use.