“My boyfriend has a lot of tattoos. Is it a good idea to bring him to Japan, or will it cause problems everywhere we go?”

This question pops up quite often, and I completely understand the concern! The short answer is: absolutely bring your boyfriend. Tattoos are NOT going to ruin your Japan trip. Let me explain the real situation.

The Actual Situation with Tattoos in Japan

“Why do people say tattoos are a problem in Japan?”

Here’s the historical context: In Japan, tattoos have traditionally been associated with yakuza (organized crime). For decades, visible tattoos were seen as a sign of gang membership, and many businesses banned them to keep yakuza out.

However, times are changing. Japan now welcomes millions of international tourists, and there’s a growing understanding that:

• Many foreigners have tattoos for fashion/cultural reasons
• Tattoos don’t automatically mean “criminal” anymore
• Younger Japanese people are more accepting

Where Tattoos ARE an Issue

“Okay, but where will we actually have problems?”

Let me be specific about the places that may restrict entry:

Onsen (Hot Springs) and Sento (Public Baths)

• Most traditional onsen still ban tattoos
• Signs will show a crossed-out tattoo symbol if not allowed
• This is the main area where tattoos cause issues

Other Places That May Restrict

• Some public swimming pools
• Some gyms (especially old-school ones)
• Certain beaches (rare, mostly in conservative areas)
• A few ryokans (traditional inns)

Where Tattoos Are Completely Fine

“What about everywhere else?”

Tattoos are NOT an issue in:

• Restaurants – All of them
• Shops and stores – All of them
• Trains and public transport – No problem
• Temples and shrines – Totally fine (though covering up out of respect is nice)
• Hotels – Modern hotels don’t care
• Streets – Nobody will stop you
• Theme parks – Disney, USJ, all fine
• Most tourist attractions – No issues

You can walk around Shibuya, Harajuku, Shinjuku, or anywhere else with visible tattoos. People might glance, but that’s it.

Solutions for Onsen Lovers

“We really want to try an onsen. What can we do?”

Great news! There are several workarounds:

1. Private Baths (貸切風呂/kashikiri buro)

• Most ryokans offer private bathing rooms
• Book a room with its own bath
• Cost: Usually ¥2,000-5,000 extra per use, or included with room
• This is what I recommend most!

2. Tattoo-Friendly Onsen

• More and more onsen are becoming tattoo-friendly
• Check websites like tattoo-spot.jp or search “タトゥーOK 温泉”
• Some chains like Oedo Onsen Monogatari locations allow tattoos

3. Tattoo Cover Patches

• Sold at pharmacies (look for “タトゥー隠しシール”)
• Waterproof patches that cover small tattoos
• Works for tattoos smaller than your palm
• Cost: ¥500-1,000 per pack

4. In-Room Baths at Ryokans

• Many ryokans have rooms with private outdoor baths (露天風呂付き客室)
• You get the full onsen experience, completely private
• More expensive but worth it for the experience

What Japanese People Actually Think

“Will people judge us or treat us differently?”

Honestly? Most Japanese people:

• Won’t say anything directly (it’s not polite to comment)
• May look briefly out of curiosity (especially older people)
• Will still be polite and helpful
• Won’t refuse service at restaurants, shops, etc.

Younger Japanese people often find foreign tattoos interesting or cool. I’ve had friends with tattoos who got compliments from young Japanese people!

The only time someone might say something is at an onsen/sento with a no-tattoo policy. They’ll politely explain the rule, and that’s it.

My Personal Advice

“What’s your honest recommendation?”

1. Don’t let tattoos stop you from visiting Japan – The vast majority of your trip will be unaffected.

2. Plan ahead for onsen – Research tattoo-friendly options or book private baths. It’s easy to work around.

3. Cover up at traditional temples – Not required, but it’s respectful. Long sleeves or light clothing works.

4. Consider tattoo locations – Easily coverable tattoos (upper arm, back) cause fewer issues than full sleeves or hand/neck tattoos.

5. Be confident – Don’t act embarrassed or apologetic. Enjoy your trip!

Practical Info Summary

The Changing Attitude

“Is Japan becoming more accepting?”

Yes! Slowly but surely:

• 2019 tourism push led many places to relax rules
• Rugby World Cup and Olympics brought international attention to the issue
• Younger generation is much more accepting
• International hotels rarely have policies
• More tattoo-friendly onsen opening each year

Give it another 10-20 years, and tattoo restrictions may be largely gone. But for now, just plan a little ahead!

Extra Travel Tips

1. Learn the phrase – “Tattoo wa daijoubu desu ka?” (タトゥーは大丈夫ですか？) means “Are tattoos okay?” Ask before entering onsen.

2. Smaller towns are stricter – Big city onsen and tourist areas are more flexible than rural traditional spots.

3. Summer tip – Wearing long sleeves in hot weather can be uncomfortable. Light linen shirts or UV-protective long sleeves work well.

4. Ask your hotel – Concierges can recommend tattoo-friendly onsen in the area.

5. Don’t sneak in – If a place bans tattoos and you sneak in, you risk embarrassment if caught. Just find somewhere else!

Japan has so much to offer, and tattoos should be a minor consideration, not a reason to skip the trip. Your boyfriend will be fine—and you’ll both have an amazing time!

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