New tattoo policy proposed for Japan’s hot springs
The Japan Tourism Agency has asked the country’s hot springs and spa operators once again to relax strict rules banning customers with tattoos.
The state agency wants to introduce seals to conceal tattoos and to set up certain times for tattooed visitors to use facilities.
The number of foreigners visiting Japan’s hot springs is growing, but so is the number of complaints as many tattooed guests are turned away.
In Japan tattoos are still synonymous with Yakuza gangster culture. There is limited understanding in the country about the significance of tattoos for fashion or religious reasons overseas.
"We want to seek the understanding of facility operators, as well as users," said Japan Tourism Agency Commissioner Akihiko Tamura.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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