Onsen and Tattoos: What Visitors Need to Know
Short answer: rules are set by each bath, not by law. Some onsen refuse tattoos, more and more accept them, and some accept small tattoos covered with a patch. Check the facility's website or ask at the front desk before you pay.
Your options with tattoos
| Option | What JNTO says |
|---|---|
| Ask / check the sign | Many baths show a no-tattoo sign; if there is none, ask. |
| Cover small tattoos | A sticker or patch may be accepted — but some places refuse even covered tattoos. Ask first. |
| Private bath | Inns and hotels with private (rented) baths avoid the issue. |
| Kinosaki Onsen (Hyogo) | Its seven public bathhouses are open to guests with tattoos. |
Onsen etiquette in 5 lines
- Most onsen: no swimsuits, bathe naked.
- Wash your whole body at the shower stools before getting in.
- Keep the small towel out of the water; tie up long hair.
- No drinking alcohol in or before the bath; about 30 minutes in the water is plenty.
- Lock valuables in the changing room lockers.
Ask staff in Japanese: "Irezumi wa daijōbu desu ka?" (Are tattoos OK?) — or show this: タトゥーがあります。入浴できますか？
Left out on purpose: lists of specific tattoo-friendly baths beyond Kinosaki — policies change and we could not confirm them on official pages today.
Quick answers
Can I go to an onsen with tattoos in Japan?
It depends on the facility. JNTO says some onsen have a no-tattoo policy, but more now allow tattoos. Some accept small tattoos covered by a sticker or patch — check with the facility first.
Where can I bathe with tattoos for sure?
JNTO's Kinosaki Onsen pamphlet says the town's public bathhouses are open to guests with tattoos. A private (rented) bath at an inn or hotel is another option JNTO suggests.
What are the basic onsen rules?
Bathe naked, wash your whole body before getting in, keep your small towel and your hair out of the water, and don't drink alcohol before bathing.
More Japan trip guides: Japan trip checklist (all guides)
Official sources
Checked November 5, 2026 (JST). Prices and rules can change; confirm on the official pages.
- JNTO — Hot springs in Japan (official FAQ): faq.japan-travel.jnto.go.jp
- JNTO — Onsen: on tattoos and etiquette (official blog): www.japan.travel
- JNTO — Kinosaki Onsen pamphlet (official PDF): partners-pamph.jnto.go.jp