No matter the size of your tattoo, ink is no problem.
Traditionally, visitors with tattoos weren’t allowed in Japan’s onsen (natural hot springs) because of an age-old association with organized crime. For decades, tattoos were seen as a symbol of the yakuza, Japan’s organized crime families, so most onsen imposed strict no-tattoo policies to maintain a family-friendly, peaceful atmosphere. Any visible ink could lead to a stern request to cover up or, in many cases, outright refusal of entry.
However, times are changing. In recent years, Japan’s tourism boom and evolving attitudes toward body art have prompted a gradual shift. Recognizing that many overseas visitors have tattoos for purely aesthetic or cultural reasons, more onsen have relaxed their policies. Some now welcome tattooed guests by offering discreet ways to cover ink with adhesive patches or by designating specific times or separate bathing areas. Others simply eliminate the ban entirely, proudly advertising themselves as “tattoo-friendly onsen.”
If you’re planning your trip with Crazy Escape or simply researching Japan travel tips before you arrive, here’s a curated list of tattoo-friendly onsen near Osaka or Kyoto where you can enjoy a soak without worrying about your ink. All of them can be reached as a Osaka or Kyoto day trip.
With a history of over 1,300 years, Kinosaki Onsen is easily accessible from Osaka or Kyoto in under three hours by limited express train. The town’s famous sotoyu public baths can all be enjoyed with a single pass (around ¥1,500), valid from morning to night (roughly 7:00–22:30). The baths are tattoo-friendly, and tickets are easy to purchase at facilities throughout Kinosaki Onsen. There are several Onsen you can enjoy and let us pick up three Onsen for you.
1 Ichinoyu – Kinosaki Onsen (Hyogo)
The most compact of Kinosaki’s public baths.A large bath filled with the warmth and fragrance of wood.Please note that the tub is quite deep, so extra care is needed when visiting with children.
2 Yanagiya – Kinosaki Onsen (Hyogo)
Recognized as a landmark of Kinosaki, this bathhouse is known for its impressive gate and unique cave bath carved out of natural rock. Here, you can experience the soothing feeling of becoming one with nature.
3 Jizouyu- Kinosaki Onsen (Hyogo)
As you leave Kinosaki Onsen Station and walk straight down the main street, this bathhouse comes into view directly ahead. It is said to be named Jizō-yu because a Jizō statue was discovered at its hot spring source. On the second floor, you’ll also find a spacious tatami-mat relaxation lounge.
In Kyoto, Shiga, and Nara as well, there are hot springs where you can enjoy a soak while taking in beautiful scenery. Please keep in mind that some baths may require extra consideration for the comfort of other guests.
4 Kurama Onsen (Kyoto)
Nestled in the area famous for Kurama-dera Temple and Kifune Shrine is Kurama Onsen, a tattoo-friendly hot spring. Whether you stop by for a day visit or stay overnight, you can enjoy both open-air and indoor baths.
5 Kyoto Arashiyama Onsen Kadens (Kyoto)
Located near Arashiyama’s famous Togetsukyo Bridge. While day-use bathing is not available, guests with tattoos may still enjoy the baths if they are covered with a seal. Known for its great value and popularity as a ryokan, it’s well worth a stay.
Nara also offers many tattoo-friendly hot spring inns where you can relax and enjoy the beauty of nature and scenic views.A perfect way to unwind after exploring the ancient capital.
6 Kotonoyado Musashino (Nara)
Located within Nara Park, this is the oldest hotel in Nara Prefecture. The hotel warmly welcomes guests with tattoos and explains this in advance to Japanese guests to ensure mutual understanding. We kindly ask guests with tattoos to let us know when making a reservation.
7 Mikasa (Nara)
Just a 10-minute drive from Nara Station, this inn features both a large public bath and private open-air baths in the guest rooms. The large bath warmly welcomes guests with tattoos. You can enjoy an artificial hot spring that combines a medicinal bath used for therapeutic purposes with mineral-rich water extracted from the natural ore Kōmyōseki—perfect for relaxation and wellness.
8 Asukasou (Nara)
You can enjoy a rooftop open-air bath with a stunning view of Kōfuku-ji’s five-story pagoda, as well as a calm and relaxing large public bath. Small tattoos, roughly the size of a palm, are permitted in the public bath. Guests with larger tattoos can enjoy a private bath instead.
9 New Wakasa (Nara)
Located just a 5-minute walk from Nara Park, Tōdai-ji, and the Great Buddha Hall, this inn is perfectly situated to enjoy all that Nara has to offer. Its artificial hot spring is made primarily from the mineral-rich ore Kōmyōseki, known for its strong ionizing properties. The owner warmly welcomes guests with tattoos—so feel free to relax and enjoy your bath without worry.
10 Wakasa Bettei (Nara)
The only bath in Nara where you can enjoy a spectacular view of the Great Buddha Hall’s massive roof and Mount Wakakusa directly from the tub. A large skylight fills the space with natural light, creating a spacious and relaxing atmosphere. As an annex of New Wakasa, tattoos are of course warmly welcomed.
Extra Funaoka Onsen
In Kyoto, it seems that some public baths are even called “onsen.” While researching tattoo-friendly hot springs, there’s one public bath I simply have to recommend. The building itself is stunning, and it offers a variety of baths, making it well worth a visit. There’s also a related inn nearby. The owner is a grandmother who warmly welcomes guests.
Final Thoughts
Osaka or Kyoto offers plenty of tattoo-friendly onsen within easy reach, making it possible for travelers to enjoy Japan’s hot spring culture without worry. While traditions remain important, inclusivity is becoming a growing priority in Japan’s tourism industry. By respecting onsen etiquette—such as rinsing before entering the bath and keeping noise to a minimum—anyone can enjoy a relaxing, authentic experience.
And if you’d like to go beyond hot springs and dive deeper into Japanese culture, there are countless hands-on experiences waiting for you. From learning manga drawing techniques to crafting your own lucky Daruma, trying a countryside onigiri-making workshop, or even a glamorous gyaru makeover, these activities let you experience Japan in unforgettable ways.
👉 Discover and book unique cultural experiences here: https://crazyescape.net/experiences/
Please note that information may change over time, so we recommend checking directly with each facility before your visit.