Got ink but want to enjoy the health benefits and relaxation that onsen gives? Back in the day, tattoos and onsens were like oil and water, thanks to old beliefs linking ink to the yakuza.
But hey, guess what? Times are shifting, and more onsens are ditching the old rulebook, giving a big thumbs-up to inked travellers—yay for more tattoo-friendly onsen in Japan!
Here’s what to do before going into an onsen
Before going into an onsen, here are some things you need to do and be mindful of:
1. Shower: Take a thorough shower to clean your body before entering the onsen. This is a crucial step to maintain the cleanliness of the hot spring water.
2. Remove Jewellery: Take off any jewellery, watches, or accessories before entering the onsen. This helps to avoid damage or tarnishing because of the mineral-rich water.
3. Use the Restroom: Make a quick visit to the restroom before entering the onsen to guarantee you won't need to leave the hot spring area once you're inside.
4. Tie Up Hair (if applicable): If you have long hair, tie it up neatly or use a hair tie to keep it out of the water.
5. Check the Rules: Familiarize yourself with the onsen's rules and etiquette. These may include guidelines on towel usage, noise level, or other specific instructions.
6. Drink Water: Hydrate yourself before entering the hot spring, as the heat can cause dehydration. It's essential to drink enough water to stay hydrated.
7. Adjust Water Temperature: Check the water temperature before entering. Some onsens have different pools with different temperatures; choose the one that suits you best.
8. Take a Towel: Take a small towel with you to the onsen for modesty when moving between changing areas and the poolside. Remember, don't dip the towel in the onsen water.
9. Relax and Enjoy: Once inside the onsen, relax, and enjoy the soothing hot spring experience. Follow the etiquette of quiet enjoyment and respect others' space.
10. Rinse Off Afterwards: After soaking in the onsen, rinse off your body with fresh water before leaving to remove any minerals or residues from the hot spring water.
Following these steps will help you have a pleasant and respectful experience for yourself and others when enjoying an onsen.
Now, let’s dive into the relaxing onsen water of these inclusive baths for an enjoyable and stress-free soak!
1. Onogawa Onsen Hojunoyu
Relax in a sunny outdoor bath with IG-worthy views! Credits: @hojunoyu on IG
Onogawa Onsen Hojunoyu is an amazing tattoo-friendly hot spring spot tucked away in Japan's Miyagi Prefecture. People flock here for the healing powers of the mineral-rich waters – they're said to work wonders on the body and soul.
This place is all about soaking up the good stuff, with both indoor and outdoor baths where you can chill in the warm, soothing waters. And oh, the views! You'll be soaking away while taking in the gorgeous mountain vistas and lush landscapes.
Onogawa Onsen cares about delivering that authentic Japanese experience too, with traditional rooms featuring tatami mats and top-notch hospitality. You can wander around the peaceful gardens or join in on some cool cultural activities they often organize. It's a ticket to relaxation city, where you can fully embrace the calmness of nature's hot springs in a super chill and welcoming atmosphere.
Location: 2584 Onogawamachi, Yonezawa, Yamagata 992-0076
2. Tsubame Onsen Hotel Hanabun
Take a dip into the milky-white waters of Tsubame. Credits: Klook
Tsubame Onsen Hotel Hanabun is known for its 100% natural onsen sourced directly from mineral-rich waters so guests can reap the full health benefits. Renowned for its milky-white, sulphur-rich waters, this tattoo-friendly onsen has separate baths for both men and women, allowing all guests to indulge in the restorative properties of the thermal hot springs!
Location: Tsubame Onsen, Myoko 949-2235 Niigata Prefecture
3. Kinosaki Onsen
Embrace the warmth and serenity of hot spring baths. Credits: @visitkinosaki on IG
Kinosaki Onsen is celebrated as the country's premier onsen town, renowned for its not one but seven natural hot springs! Conveniently situated only two and a half hours away by train from Kyoto and a mere three hours from Osaka, it entices travellers looking for a serene escape.
Embracing a traditional ambience, Kinosaki Onsen offers many kinds of therapeutic natural hot springs, creating a fantastic escape for you to immerse in the healing properties of these waters.
Location: Toyooka, Hyogo, Japan
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4. Hoheikyo Onsen
Where stress melts away. Credits: @supersillytraveller on IG
In the picturesque onsen town of Jozankei, Sapporo, Hoheikyo Onsen offers a restful refuge. It's particularly enchanting in winter when you can bathe in the hot spring under the falling snow. A standout feature of this serene oasis is its rotenburo (open-air bath), hailed as one of Japan's largest, accommodating around 200 bathers at once!
Location: 608-2 Jozankei, Minami Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 061-2301
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5. Fukiage Onsen Health Center
Make sure to visit the famous Fukiage Onsen! Credits: @onsen_onna on IG
Fukiage Onsen Health Center stands as a beloved haven for avid skiers and outdoors peeps, offering an oasis after a day on the slopes.
If you're a winter sports enthusiast, unwinding and soothing tired muscles by indulging in a rejuvenating soak at this famous onsen is a great way to cap off some fun in the snow!
Location: 〒071-0579 Hokkaido, Sorachi District, Kamifurano, Fukiage
6. Shima Onsen Kashiwaya Ryokan
Hot springs and chill vibes. Credits: @akkyjournal on IG
Shima Onsen Kashiwaya Ryokan, a charming Japanese-style inn, welcomes guests with a tattoo-friendly onsen, catering to a more intimate and personalised bathing experience!
Alongside the relaxing baths, the private onsen treats your taste buds with authentic Japanese cuisine, including options for vegan-friendly meals. A mere three hours from Tokyo, this soothing sanctuary offers a convenient escape for travellers who want both relaxation and traditional Japanese hospitality.
Location: 3829 Shima, Nakanojo, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture 377-0601
7. Shibaseki Onsen
When in doubt, soak it out!
Nestled at the foot of a mountain and alongside a flowing river, Shibaseki Onsen is a secluded gem. Plus, it's pretty exclusive, having no other hot springs around in the vicinity!
Shibaseki prides itself on being a tattoo-friendly onsen, welcoming guests with body art to indulge in the therapeutic waters without hesitation and creating an inclusive environment for everyone to enjoy a relaxing soak in nature.
Location: Beppu, Oita 874-0016
8. Hottarakashi Onsen
Watch beautiful sunrises and stunning views of mountains. Credits: @ikhns1014 on IG
Hottarakashi Onsen, settled in the mountains north of Kofu, is a breathtaking public onsen facility renowned for its awe-inspiring views. Here, you also have the chance to witness spectacular sunrises and panoramic views showcasing the stunning greenery of Kofu Plain and the iconic, cone-shaped Mt. Fuji in the distance.
As one of many public baths, Hottarakashi Onsen is an inviting space where visitors can unwind and appreciate nature's grandeur while relishing the healing waters.
Location: 1669-18 Yatsubo, Yamanashi, 405-0036
9. Dogo Onsen Honkan
Dogo Onsen offers snacks and tea when you feel a little hungry! Credits: @travelingspud on IG
Dogo Onsen Honkan is a traditional onsen admired for its public baths and its many options of amenities, such as tea, snacks, and private rooms for you and your friends!
Within this historical establishment, you have the privilege of immersing yourself in the main bath, known as Kami no Yu (Bath of the Gods), or the smaller yet distinguished Tama no Yu (Bath of the Spirits), indulging in the serene and therapeutic waters of these celebrated public baths
Location: 5-6 Dogoyunomachi, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0842
10. Kurokawa Onsen
Visit one of Japan's most famous onsen towns! Credits: @kurokawaonsen on IG
Located in the scenic landscapes of Kyushu lies Kurokawa Onsen, one of Japan's famous onsen towns. With approximately thirty onsen ryokan (a traditional Japanese inn) dotting its mountainous terrain, Kurokawa treats guests to an authentic Japanese cultural experience.
Here, you can delight in the ritual of onsen bathing within nature's embrace and relish the flavours of multi-course kaiseki banquets. You can also unwind in the comfort of cosy tatami-floored rooms for a classic encounter with Japanese culture.
Location: Kurokawa, Aso, Kumamoto Prefecture 869-2225
11. Takegawara Onsen
The sand bath experience is a must-try! Credits: @takegawara_onsen on IG
Located in Beppu, Takegawara Onsen is a unique and tattoo-friendly onsen, offering the traditional onsen experience and a distinctive sand bath encounter all in one place!
Feel the deep relaxation induced by the warmth of the heated sand, courtesy of nearby thermal springs. This therapeutic sand treatment offers a soothing sensation that helps alleviate stiffness in muscles and joints, making it a one-of-a-kind relaxation destination that relieves stress from daily life.
Location: 16-23 Motomachi, Beppu, Oita Prefecture 874-0944
12. Yumoto Onsen
Did you know that Yumoto literally translates to "origin of hot water"? Credits: @sagwigoshipoyo on IG
Yumoto Onsen, which translates to "origin of hot water", can charm you as one of the cosiest and smallest hot spring towns. Renowned for its waters, believed to alleviate conditions like neuralgia and rheumatism, this tranquil haven invites you to experience its health benefits.
To get a taste of its healing properties, you can indulge in the town's complimentary foot bath, "Anyo-no-yu", offering a free and accessible opportunity to immerse your feet and relax in the curative warmth of the onsen waters.
Location: 682 Yumoto, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture
13. Zao Onsen Dai Rotenburo
Ahh, yes! Nothing like a relaxing dip in warm waters during winter. Credits: @zao_onsen_dairotenburo on IG
In the vibrant Zao area of Yamagata, you can find Zao Onsen Dai Rotenburo, a welcoming tattoo-friendly onsen. Offering a captivating blend of nature's charm and therapeutic waters, this onsen enchants you with its picturesque setting amid a lush forest.
The mesmerizing turquoise hue of the natural hot spring water adds to its allure, while the highlight remains its expansive rotenburo, a colossal outdoor bath accommodating up to 200 individuals.
Location: 853-3 Zaoonsen, Yamagata, 990-2301
14. Kagoiwa Onsen Ryokan
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Credits: @awslattery on IG
In the scenic surroundings of Nikko, Kagoiwa Onsen Ryokan is great for a weekend escape from the bustling streets of Tokyo! Its serene setting allows you to unwind while enjoying breathtaking vistas of the Nikko mountain range and the tranquil flow of the Kinugawa River from both indoor and outdoor baths.
Whether indulging in the healing waters indoors or soaking in the picturesque outdoor baths, you can savour the panoramic views—the icing on the cake of relaxation.
Location: 51, Takatoku, Nikko-Shi, Tochigi, 321-2523, Nikko
15. Yamato no Yu
Find bliss in the healing waters of hot springs. Credits: @onsen_channel on IG
For a rejuvenating escape, Yamato no Yu is perfect for those who need relaxation just 40 minutes away from Narita Airport in Tokyo. This oasis features pristine mineral-rich spring waters flowing directly from the natural hot spring, offering revitalisation for those who take a dip.
Embracing inked guests, this tattoo-friendly onsen has a welcoming environment where visitors can unwind and immerse themselves in the healing waters.
Location: 1630 Odake, Narita, Chiba 286-0841
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16. Tsukiori Onsen Takimi no Yu
An onsen that welcomes tattooed people! Credits: https://trip101.com/
Situated in the less-explored Ibaraki Prefecture, discover Tsukiori Onsen Takimi no Yu, a ryokan where all tattoo sizes are totally cool in their skin-loving alkaline springs. Plus, if you're only in town for the day, good news! From 8:00 to 19:00, even day-trippers can enjoy both indoor and outdoor baths without having to stay overnight.
Location: 2879-4 Konamase, Daigo-cho, Kuji-gun, Ibaraki Prefecture
17. Uramigataki Onsen
A secluded hot spring in the middle of lush greens. Credits: @saorikktn on IG
Uramigataki Onsen is a free and inclusive public bath nestled on the somewhat secluded Izu Islands, a Tokyo gem tucked offshore.
Offering a tattoo-friendly, mixed-gender bathing experience, this private bath has a jungle waterfall view. You're required to wear bathing suits or cover with a towel for the fall!
Location: Japan, 〒100-1623 Tokyo
18. Hottarakashi no Onsen
Nothing like a relaxing warm bath and views of the sky. Credits: @saunachannel on IG
Take a dip at Hottarakashi no Onse, an outdoor bath where you can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Mount Fuji and the sprawling cityscape of Yamanashi below. The opening hours depend on the sunrise, so you can fully soak in this stunning panorama while luxuriating in the warm onsen water.
Location: 1669-18 Yatsubo, Yamanashi
19. Tsubame Onsen
An outdoor onsen situated at the bottom of Mt. Myoko! Credits: @coco.icotto on IG
Surrounded by the forest and embraced by the iconic Mt. Myoko, Tsubame Onsen naturally steams, creating the perfect Japanese open-air hot spring retreat. You’ll find two baths here: Kawara-no-yu and Ougon-no-yu, both adding to the serene onsen experience.
Location: Myoko City, Niigata Prefecture, 949-2235
20. Funaoka Onsen
Check out this bathhouse with old-school vibes. Credits: @naoto_otsubo on IG
Adorned with vintage tiles and intricate wood carvings on the ceilings, this bathhouse exudes a charming retro ambience.
Housing many baths—including Japan's pioneering denki buro, an electric bath that infuses a gentle current into the water—Funaoka promises a distinctive and purportedly muscle-soothing experience. You're in for a shock!
Location: 82-1 Murasakino Minamifunaokachō, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8225
In a country where centuries-old traditions intersect with modern sensibilities, the availability of tattoo-friendly onsens in Japan marks a significant shift in cultural acceptance. These welcoming establishments not only embrace diversity but also offer a bridge between tradition and evolving societal norms.
As more onsens recognize and accommodate visitors with tattoos, travellers can now immerse themselves in the therapeutic and relaxing waters of these hot springs without fear of exclusion. This progressive approach not only increases the experience for tourists but also reflects Japan's growing openness to embracing diverse cultural practices, making the journey to enjoy these healing waters an inclusive and enriching experience for all.
After your onsen experience, discover the best adventures in Japan with this action-packed list of things to try out!
If Osaka is on your itinerary, make sure to check out this train guide, and you'll be able to explore the city just like a local and without any hassle.
The best way to see some of the most fascinating cities in the Kansai region of Japan and learn more about it is to take the Kansai Thru Pass!
Written by: Dayday Africa
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