Tattoos in Japan

• Tattoos have a huge stigma in Japan as they’re associated heavily with gangs.

• Although they may be lenient toward foreigners, some gyms or onsen will turn you away or kick you out if they find out you have tattoos

• Try to cover up your tattoos as best as you can (makeup, stickers, fabric).

• Medium‐sized tattoos can be covered up with a bandage or athletic tape.

• According to many, it’s better to ask forgiveness than ask permission (meaning, just go without mentioning your tattoos and hope nobody notices or tries to kick you out, rather than asking if your tattoos are okay).

• You workplace might ask you to hide them.

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Tattoo-Friendly Locations

• Although Japan is becoming more and more accepting of tattoos, it seems very slow and there is still a long way to go.

• Here are some useful websites to help you find various locations in Japan that will welcome you and your tattoos:

Tattoo Friendly

• https://tattoo-friendly.jp/

• English and Japanese website

• It categorizes by “types” of places that will allow tattoos in Japan, along with a map.

• It also states if there are any special rules and regulations some places may have for customers with tattoos.

• Location listed: 

  • Onsen (Hot spring)

  • Sento (Public bath)

  • Gym

  • Hotel & Ryokan (Japanese style inn)

  • Pool

  • Beach

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Tattoo Spots

• http://tattoo-spot.jp/

• Japanese website only (you can use Google Translate)

• Locations listed:

  • Hot spring

  • Public bath

  • Sauna

  • Pool

  • Gym

  • Yoga

  • Tanning salon

  • Beach

  • Amusement park

  • Hotel

  • Other

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References: https://tokyojet.wikia.org/wiki/Tattoo_Friendly_Locations, https://tattoo-friendly.jp/

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