Is having a tattoo still a problem at public hot springs in Nagano?

Hey everyone,
I'm planning a trip to Nagano and was wondering about the current attitude toward tattoos in public onsens/hot springs there.

I know traditionally tattoos were seen as taboo in Japan due to the association with yakuza, but I’ve heard some areas have become more relaxed, especially with more foreign tourists.

For those who’ve been to Nagano recently:

  • Are tattoos still an issue at public hot springs?
  • Do most places require covering up, or do they still refuse entry?
  • Any tattoo-friendly onsens you’d recommend?
  • Would a small to medium tattoo still attract attention, or is it generally fine now?

Appreciate any recent experiences or tips. Don’t want to accidentally offend or get turned away after hiking all day 😅

Thanks!

by Apprehensive_Mouse38

1 comment
  1. Every place decides individually on their own what their tattoo policy is, and no there hasn’t been a big shift on that. There have always been places where it’s Ok (usually local sentos) and where it’s not (typically more upscale ryokans and such)

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