Tajiyama Ryokan - A Tattoo-Friendly Hot Spring in Kinosaki Onsen, Hyogo
Does Tajiyama Ryokan Allow Tattoos?
Partially, tattoos are accepted at Tajiyama Ryokan, but only in private baths—not public bath areas.
Overview of Tajiyama Ryokan
Nestled in the heart of Kinosaki Onsen, a charming hot spring town with 1,300 years of bathing tradition, Tajiyama Ryokan (但馬屋) offers tattooed travelers a perfect blend of modern luxury and timeless Japanese hospitality. This elegant ryokan stands just minutes from the iconic Kinosaki Onsen Ropeway in Toyooka, Hyogo Prefecture—a region celebrated by Lonely Planet as home to 'The Best Onsen Town' in Japan. With its earthen walls, antique wood accents, and private bath options, Tajiyama provides an authentic Japanese onsen experience without the anxiety that often accompanies tattooed travelers seeking thermal waters in Japan.
Tattoo Rules & Guidelines
Private Bathing Allowed for Tattooed Guests: While Tajiyama's public gender-segregated baths follow traditional Japanese tattoo policies, the ryokan offers three beautifully appointed private onsen baths (Kagen, Chikuyo, and Kirara) that can be reserved at the front desk—allowing tattooed guests to enjoy a completely relaxing soak without covering requirements.
Why Bathe Here? Benefits and History
- Private Onsen Experience: Three distinct indoor baths available for reservation at any time—perfect for couples, families, or anyone seeking privacy
- Seasonal Gourmet Cuisine: Multi-course kaiseki dinners featuring Hyogo's renowned Tajima beef and fresh snow crab (November–March)
- Cultural Immersion: Traditional ryokan design with modern comforts like Wi-Fi, creating an authentic yet comfortable stay
- Central Location: In the heart of Kinosaki Onsen's atmospheric streets, with seven public bath houses within walking distance
- Traveler-Friendly Services: English-speaking staff, free shuttle service from the station, and bicycle rentals for exploring
Onsen Facilities & Amenities
♨️Bath Types
- Traditional Indoor Bath
- Private Onsen Bath
🍽️Dining
- Kaiseki Dinner
- Breakfast
✨Amenities
- Vending Machines
- Free Parking
- Shuttle Service
🌐Accessibility
- English Speaking Staff
👥Suitable For
- Good for Couples
- Family Friendly
- Suitable for Everyone
Bathing Experience & Onsen Etiquette
Tajiyama's three private indoor baths offer tranquil sanctuaries of relaxation, each uniquely designed with natural materials that create distinct atmospheres. The mineral-rich thermal waters flow directly from Kinosaki's renowned springs, which locals have treasured for centuries for their skin-beautifying and muscle-relaxing properties. These private baths maintain the perfect traditional Japanese temperature (approximately 40–42°C), creating an ideal environment for unwinding after exploring Kinosaki's atmospheric streets. Unlike the sometimes anxiety-inducing experience of public baths for tattooed travelers, these private spaces allow you to fully immerse yourself in Japanese bathing culture without worry—making your onsen experience completely restorative rather than stressful.
Directions to Tajiyama Ryokan in Kinosaki Onsen
✈️ Kansai International Airport → 🚄 Limited Express to Kyoto or Himeji (2 hours) → 🚄 Limited Express to Kinosaki Onsen Station (1 hour) → 🚌 Free shuttle (by reservation) or 🚶 12-minute walk
🚄 JR Kyoto Station → 🚄 Limited Express to Kinosaki Onsen Station (2 hours) → 🚌 Free shuttle (by reservation) or 🚶 12-minute walk
🚄 Toyooka Station → 🚌 Local bus to Kinosaki Onsen (20 minutes) → 🚶 5-minute walk
Map
Booking & Contact Information
Advance reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak snow crab season (November–March) when this ryokan's popularity soars among Japanese and international travelers seeking seasonal delicacies.
🌐 Website: https://www.kinosaki-tajimaya.co.jp/en/
📞 Phone: +81 796-32-2411
📍 Address: 453 Yushima, Kinosaki-cho, Toyooka, Hyogo 669-6101, Japan
⏰ Check-in: 3:00 PM / Check-out: 10:00 AM
Travel Tip
Look for flexible booking options like free cancellation. This way, you can easily reach out to your onsen to make sure their tattoo policy feels right for your needs and enjoy peace of mind for your trip.
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Last updated on Apr 16, 2025 by Mat Roniss – Founder of Tattoo Friendly Onsen , and hot springs enjoyer who has been visiting Japanese onsen for over 30 years.
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