A Guide to Visiting Japan With Tattoos as a Foreigner (2024)

"Can I visit Japan with tattoos?" and "Can I get a tattoo in Japan?"

These are common questions from travelers curious about Japan’s unique cultural relationship with tattoos—and for good reason.

After all, social media is filled with content telling you that tattoos are taboo in Japan, and that you can’t enjoy visiting here if you have a tattoo (especially if you want to experience a Japanese onsen hot spring).

Well, there’s some truth to the taboo part. But as for tattoos in general, having one (or a whole sleeve or more) should not deter you from your Japan travel dreams.

Body art continues to gain acceptance in Japan, and while tattoos still occupy a complex place in Japanese society, don’t cross Japan off your list. From those onsen tattoo restrictions to modern tattoo studios, here's what you need to know about visiting Japan with tattoos or getting inked during your trip.

Modern Japanese Attitudes Toward Tattoos

The old association between tattoos and organized crime has faded considerably, especially in major cities. Several factors have influenced this change.

International visitors have helped normalize tattoos as fashion and art. Young Japanese people increasingly view body art as a form of self-expression rather than a social stigma.

Many Japanese people now distinguish between traditional full-body tattoos and modern artistic styles. The growing popularity of small, decorative tattoos among young people has helped shift perceptions.

Major cities like Tokyo, Osaka & Sapporo generally show more acceptance than rural areas. You'll find plenty of people with visible tattoos in fashion districts and entertainment areas.

Business settings tend to remain conservative. Many Japanese companies still maintain no-tattoo policies for employees, though some are beginning to relax these rules.

Younger Japanese people typically show more acceptance of tattoos. This generational shift appears most clearly in:

• Social Settings - Casual restaurants, bars & clubs rarely pay attention to visible tattoos.
• Fashion Districts - Areas like Harajuku & Shimokitazawa embrace diverse style choices.
• Creative Industries - Art, music & fashion sectors often welcome tattooed professionals.
• International Companies - Foreign firms typically maintain more relaxed policies.

Older generations in Japan might still express surprise at visible tattoos but rarely show outright disapproval in tourist areas.

What You Should Expect When Visiting Japan with Tattoos

While some places still maintain restrictions, you won't face any serious issues in most daily situations as a traveler in Japan. A few simple preparations will help you avoid awkward moments.

Pack light, breathable clothing that covers larger tattoos if you plan to visit traditional sites or religious spaces. A moisture-wicking long-sleeve shirt works well in warmer months. Swimming sleeves or rash guards come in handy for beaches and pools.

Small tattoos on hands, neck or face generally won't cause problems in most public spaces. Larger or more visible pieces might draw attention in formal settings or traditional establishments.

Most major tourist spots, shopping areas and restaurants won't give tattoos a second look. The main considerations come into play at bathing facilities and at some gyms.

Transportation, shopping centers & entertainment venues rarely impose any tattoo-related restrictions. Even theme parks like Tokyo Disneyland have no official policies regarding visible tattoos.

Visiting Onsen (Japanese Hot Spring Baths) with Tattoos

Traditional hot spring baths present the most common challenge for tattooed visitors. Many onsen still maintain no-tattoo policies, but options for tattooed bathers keep growing.

Private baths offer the easiest solution. Many ryokan and onsen hotels provide private facilities you can reserve, regardless of tattoos. These rooms often include both indoor and outdoor baths.

Some ryokan or onsen resorts offer rooms with private onsen baths attached. While pricier, these can be a great option for guests with tattoos.

Some establishments allow small tattoos if you cover them with skin-colored patches, available at most drugstores. Call ahead to confirm their specific policies.

A growing number of onsen now explicitly welcome tattooed guests. This shift mainly appears in areas popular with international visitors. This includes Kinosaki Onsen, some of the baths at Arima Onsen, and others around Japan (best to confirm before you go).

Kinosaki Onsen stands out as one of Japan's most tattoo-friendly hot spring towns. This charming destination in Hyogo Prefecture has taken a progressive approach.

All seven of Kinosaki's public bathhouses welcome tattooed visitors. The town actively promotes this policy to international guests.

The atmosphere remains authentically Japanese. Visitors still stroll between baths in yukata robes, enjoying the distinct architecture and seasonal scenery.

Beyond the public baths, many ryokan in Kinosaki offer private facilities. These range from simple indoor baths to luxurious outdoor rotemburo with mountain views.

The town's welcoming attitude extends to its restaurants, shops & other facilities. You won't need to worry about covering up while exploring the streets in your yukata.

Kinosaki Onsen can be visited as a day trip or overnight from Kobe, Osaka or Kyoto; and can be combined with other destinations in the area such as Ine Kyoto or the Tottori Sand Dunes.

Getting a Tattoo in Japan

Japan offers unique opportunities for body art, from modern studios to traditional hand-poked techniques:

Modern Tattoo Studios in Japan

Tokyo's tattoo scene rivals any major city worldwide. Top studios maintain immaculate facilities and often have English-speaking staff:

Tattoo done by Three Tides Tattoo Studio

• Three Tides Tattoo operates respected branches in Tokyo & Osaka
• Bright Side Tattoo welcomes international clients in Shibuya
• Spin Tattoo Studio offers custom tattoo work in traditional Japanese & modern styles

Advance bookings are pretty much required. Many popular tattoo artists schedule months ahead.

Traditional Tebori Tattoos

Tebori represents Japanese tattooing in its most traditional form. Artists use hand-crafted tools to insert ink through manual techniques:

The process takes longer than machine tattooing but many consider it less painful. Sessions typically last several hours.

Tebori masters often specialize in traditional Japanese imagery: dragons, koi, cherry blossoms & waves rendered in distinctive styles.

Finding a legitimate tebori artist requires research. Reputable practitioners often work through personal referrals rather than maintaining public studios.

Tattoo Aftercare 

For tattoo aftercare, we recommend ointment like the Otsuka Oronine H Ointment. The topic of saran wrap for a fresh tattoo is up for debate; if you wish to use it for the first few hours only, try one like the Asahi Kasei Saran Wrap Japanese Plastic Wrap.

Additional Essential Tips for a Worry-Free Travel 

A few additional tips can help make your tattooed journey to Japan smoother:

Research accommodation in advance. Many modern hotels have no issues with tattoos, but traditional ryokan might appreciate advance notice.

Think about timing for onsen hot spring visits. Early morning or late evening slots at public baths often mean fewer other guests.

Learn basic Japanese phrases explaining your tattoos if asked. Most inquiries come from simple curiosity rather than judgment.

Keep tattoo aftercare in mind if getting work done during your trip. Japanese summers get hot & humid; winter air can be very dry.

Remember that visible tattoos might limit employment opportunities if you're planning to work in Japan. Teaching and corporate positions often maintain strict policies.

While attitudes continue evolving, showing consideration helps maintain positive interactions:

• Cover tattoos at formal occasions
• Respect clearly posted restrictions
• Respond politely to curious questions
• Avoid confrontation over policies

Japan's relationship with tattoos continues to evolve. While some traditional restrictions persist, increasing acceptance makes travel much easier for tattooed visitors.

Was this guide helpful? Did you face any challenges or discover tattoo-friendly spots we missed? We’d love to hear your experience! Share your tips or questions in the comments and help other tattooed travelers make the most of their Japan journey!