Many baths in Japan allow tattoos as long as they are covered. Here are the main ways to cover a tattoo, what to watch out for, and what to check with the facility first.
Check the facility's rules first
"OK if covered" means different things at different places. Common conditions are: 1. Tattoos up to a set size (for example postcard size, or 10 cm ร 10 cm) are allowed if covered with a sticker 2. You must use the cover sticker sold or provided by the facility 3. The main bath is off-limits, but the private bath is fine If the conditions are not clear, check the official website or call. Where there is a size limit, larger tattoos are not allowed even when covered.
Tattoo cover stickers
Skin-colored cover stickers are the most common way to cover a tattoo at an onsen. 1. Pick a shade close to your skin tone 2. Wipe off sweat and oil, and apply the sticker without wrinkles 3. Long soaks and rubbing can make it peel, so bring spares Some facilities sell or hand out stickers at the front desk, so it is worth asking.
Tape and bandages
A small tattoo can sometimes be covered with sports tape or a large bandage. Some facilities do not accept tape, though, so check first.
Rash guards (pools and beaches)
At pools and beaches, covering up with a rash guard or leggings is often allowed. Rules differ between indoor pools, outdoor pools and night pools, so check in advance.
If your tattoo is too big to cover
Large tattoos are hard to cover with stickers. In that case: 1. Choose a tattoo-friendly place (look for places with many "Got in" reports on Tattoo GO) 2. Choose a facility with a private bath (kashikiri or family bath) 3. Book a room with its own outdoor bath
Please do not hide a tattoo where it is banned
Visitors report stickers peeling off and being asked to leave. Check the conditions and enjoy the bath within the rules.