First of all, why people with tattoos cannot take onsen? This is because there is recognition in Japan from historical background that tattoo, so-called Irezumi in Japan, is “something anti-social people get” or “something members of illegal organization such as gangsters get.”

Can you have tattoos in an onsen?

People with tattoos are banned from most onsen (hot springs), sento (public baths), ryokan (traditional inns), pools, gyms and even capsule hotels.

Why is it illegal to swim with tattoos in Japan?

5 Answers. Tattoos or Irezumi as they are called in Japanese were criminalized in the beginning of the Meiji period (some time after 1868) as a way to make a good impression on the west.