Japan’s government to ask spa operators to accept tattooed foreigners

[yuiyoshida]

The Japan Tourism Agency decided Wednesday to ask operators of accommodation and other resort facilities to allow foreign visitors with tattoos to use spas.

The agency plans to introduce examples for avoiding problems, such as the use of seals to hide tattoos and setting certain times for tattooed visitors, in order to encourage spa operators to provide their services to more foreign guests.

The number of visitors who come to Japan to use hot springs is increasing, but many face problems with spa operators refusing them the use of facilities due to their tattoos.

Such problems reflect a limited understanding in Japan about acquiring tattoos for fashion, religious reasons or tribal customs.

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2016/03/16/national/japans-government-to-ask-spa-operators-to-accept-tattooed-foreigners/

[davidpdx]

1. I've never heard of foreigners being banned from spas here in Korea for having tattoos

I know it generally frowned upon for all people. I met a Korean who told me she has quite a large tattoo across her back and that her mom won't go to a spa with her any more because of it.

[yuiyoshida]

2. Onsen operators

and many associate Tattoos with Yakuza, so of course they don't want their clientele to flee and not come back, so anyone with a tattoo is escorted out...