Find an onsen
you can actually visit.
A database of Japanese onsen, checked against each onsen's official site and by asking the onsen directly.
Whether tattoos are allowed. Whether you can book a private bath without staying the night. How to reserve it. Every answer carries its source and the date we checked. And where we haven't confirmed something, we say so.
Onsen we've checked
We list the onsen that turn you away, too — not only the ones that let you in.
97 onsen · most confirmed info first
Tattoo conditions: Cover with a patch · Small only · Private bath only
Tattoo conditions: Small only
Tattoo conditions: Cover with a patch
Tattoo conditions: Cover with a patch · Small only
Tattoo conditions: Overseas visitors only
Tattoo conditions: Cover with a patch · Small only
Areas
Hakone
About 85 minutes from Shinjuku on the Odakyu Romancecar
Sapporo
About 40 minutes from New Chitose Airport to Sapporo Station on the JR Rapid Airport
Beppu, Kusatsu and Tokyo are next.
We work through them one onsen at a time, so it takes a while. Each area goes live once its checks are done.
Read before you go
Tattoos and onsen in Japan
Most public baths in Japan don't admit tattoos — but there are ways in.
How to book a private onsen bath
How you book a private bath in Japan depends on the onsen. There are three patterns: online, by phone only, and first-come on the day.
Onsen etiquette
The basics of bathing in a Japanese onsen, if it's your first time.