I would prefer this doesnt end up in a debate about the merits of getting tattoos but I'd like to find out if there will be any Onsens in Hakuba where I can go without causing offence due to having ink.

Didn't you do the same thread last year?

Thought I was having a senior's moment so went back and looked........ but couldnt see anything.

if it is a small tatoo then most of the onsens are ok. if its a larger style tatoo then not really welcome in the onsens- best to check when you arrive.

Thanks.

I have multiple that are quite obvious and dont want to offend others. Have seen a doco where some places in the citys were Ok with them, just hoping there might be one there.

You can always rent private family onsen.

Hotel onsens may have special rules, but none of the ones i usually frequent (Misizuku no Yu, Daini no yu, and Kurashita no Yu) have the no tattoo rule. They are all kosher.

There you go, new business. Tatt onsen for gaijin - you can all go in worry free and show off your crazy tatts!

The hotel you stay in may have their own onsen too, sure it won't be a problem there.

This is Japan. You might not "offend" people, but there is the possibility that you'll make some people uncomfortable or potentially scared. If it really concerns you that much, don't go to the onsen at all; cover your tats; or go at a quiet time.

In my opinion, times have changed. I have seen people with tats in public baths or at onsens. If you're unassuming and respectful, I don't think there's much problem.

No worries. I've seen plenty of people with whole body tattoos in both mimizuku and Kurashita. Dunno about others as these are the two in Hakuba I frequent most.

Thanks guys, great input.

Just don't frighten the kids or do anything freaky! As gaijins we need to work on our onsen etiquette, tats or no tats.

That means no weewees as well, by the way.

I've been in one or two onsens were there have been yakuza soaking in them, people don't seem too bothered despite the fact they are covered in tats.
Actually I had a good conversation with one of them once, although the locals didn't appear to want to talk to him, lol!

They are too scared of them!

In reality, is yakuza a way of life or a 'job'?

I've never actually met any (that I know of).

My local ofuro place is def a Yak hang out. Full of Ojisans who just love to try and talk to me until the old yak guys come in then no one talks especially to me!!
The last time I was there was in the summer when my family were visiting, this one guy, big tats all over his bod, everybody bowed and was deferential to him, just stood up for about 10 minutes and stared right into the back of my head, I know this as I was at the shower and every time I looked in the mirror I could see him staring....def thot we were gonna get a doing...thankfully nothing happened

I wonder if Sarah Palin would be let in.

haha. claimed in a blog, oh deary me.

Those internets are a lark aren't they?