Questions about tattoos in Japan

Hi Reddit!

I’m moving to Japan in March next year to work as an ALT. While I’m really excited, I have a few concerns regarding my tattoos. I don’t have that many, just 2 on my arms, 1 on my upper thigh, and 1 on my ankle. While the thigh tattoo and ankle tattoo are barely noticeable, I can’t say the same for the ones on my arms.

I already got a bit of an explanation from my company. They told me my tattoos need to be covered at all times while at school. Because of this and the stigma around tattoos in Japan, I had a few questions about this topic I was hoping to get answered.

1. Do I need to cover my tattoos even outside of work? Also, should I never mention my tattoos at work?

2. I’m someone who frequently goes to the gym and I plan to keep up with that while in Japan. Would my tattoos be an issue at any gyms?

3. If you/someone you know also has tattoos, how have you covered them up (specifically during the summer months)?

4. I already know that there’s many hot springs that don’t allow people with tattoos, but is there anywhere else that’s strict about tattoos that I should be aware of (i.e beaches, public pools)?

Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!