Chikusenso Onsen - A Tattoo-Friendly Hot Spring in Zao Onsen, Miyagi

Does Chikusenso Onsen Allow Tattoos?

Partially, tattoos are accepted at Chikusenso Onsen, but only in private baths—not public bath areas.

Overview of Chikusenso Onsen

CHIKUSENSO Mt.Zao Onsen Resort & Spa stands as a harmonious blend of centuries-old tradition and contemporary luxury at the foot of majestic Mt. Zao in Miyagi Prefecture. Drawing from the legendary Togatta Onsen—a "gods' onsen" with over 400 years of healing history—this exclusive resort offers tattooed travelers a rare opportunity to experience authentic Japanese bathing culture without compromise. The property's distinguished past includes visits from Japanese royalty, while its thoughtful 2010 renovation preserved traditional aesthetics while introducing modern comforts. What truly sets CHIKUSENSO apart for tattooed visitors is its commitment to privacy—every suite features its own private onsen bath, ensuring you can enjoy Japan's bathing traditions with complete freedom and discretion.

Tattoo Rules & Guidelines

Private Bathing Allowed: While public baths follow traditional Japanese policies (which may restrict visible tattoos), CHIKUSENSO offers multiple private bathing options including in-room onsen in all suites and two reservable outdoor baths at no additional cost, ensuring tattooed guests enjoy unrestricted access to authentic onsen experiences.

Why Bathe Here? Benefits and History

  • Private Onsen in Every Suite: Enjoy the therapeutic waters in complete privacy without tattoo concerns.
  • Historic Healing Waters: Experience Togatta Onsen's 400-year-old mineral-rich springs, traditionally renowned for alleviating injuries and chronic conditions.
  • Luxury Ryokan Experience: Five-star accommodations combining traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern amenities.
  • Award-Winning Architecture: Stunning cypress wood designs harmoniously integrated with Mt. Zao's volcanic landscapes.
  • Exclusive Outdoor Baths: Two private outdoor onsen available by reservation for complete seclusion.
  • Gourmet Dining: Seasonal kaiseki multi-course meals featuring local Miyagi specialties.
  • Cultural Excursions: Convenient access to Miyagi Zao Kokeshi Doll Hall and Zao Dairy Farm.
  • Royal Heritage: Once hosted the Japanese Crown Prince, maintaining its legacy of distinguished hospitality.

Onsen Facilities & Amenities

Type of Onsen ♨️

Ryokan Onsen
Hotel Onsen
Private Bathing Allowed
Traditional Indoor Bath
Rotenburo Outdoor Bath
In-Room Onsen
Private Bath Available
Kaiseki Dinner
Casual Dinner
Breakfast
Rest Lounge
Sauna
Massage
Couples
Solo Travelers
Groups
Everyone
English Speaking Staff
Free Parking
Shuttle Service
Credit Cards Accepted
Online Reservations

Tattoo Policy ✅

Ryokan Onsen
Hotel Onsen
Private Bathing Allowed
Traditional Indoor Bath
Rotenburo Outdoor Bath
In-Room Onsen
Private Bath Available
Kaiseki Dinner
Casual Dinner
Breakfast
Rest Lounge
Sauna
Massage
Couples
Solo Travelers
Groups
Everyone
English Speaking Staff
Free Parking
Shuttle Service
Credit Cards Accepted
Online Reservations

Bath Types 🛁  

Ryokan Onsen
Hotel Onsen
Private Bathing Allowed
Traditional Indoor Bath
Rotenburo Outdoor Bath
In-Room Onsen
Private Bath Available
Kaiseki Dinner
Casual Dinner
Breakfast
Rest Lounge
Sauna
Massage
Couples
Solo Travelers
Groups
Everyone
English Speaking Staff
Free Parking
Shuttle Service
Credit Cards Accepted
Online Reservations

Private Onsen Baths 🔒

Ryokan Onsen
Hotel Onsen
Private Bathing Allowed
Traditional Indoor Bath
Rotenburo Outdoor Bath
In-Room Onsen
Private Bath Available
Kaiseki Dinner
Casual Dinner
Breakfast
Rest Lounge
Sauna
Massage
Couples
Solo Travelers
Groups
Everyone
English Speaking Staff
Free Parking
Shuttle Service
Credit Cards Accepted
Online Reservations

Food & Drinks 🍽️

Ryokan Onsen
Hotel Onsen
Private Bathing Allowed
Traditional Indoor Bath
Rotenburo Outdoor Bath
In-Room Onsen
Private Bath Available
Kaiseki Dinner
Casual Dinner
Breakfast
Rest Lounge
Sauna
Massage
Couples
Solo Travelers
Groups
Everyone
English Speaking Staff
Free Parking
Shuttle Service
Credit Cards Accepted
Online Reservations

Relaxation & Wellness 🌸

Ryokan Onsen
Hotel Onsen
Private Bathing Allowed
Traditional Indoor Bath
Rotenburo Outdoor Bath
In-Room Onsen
Private Bath Available
Kaiseki Dinner
Casual Dinner
Breakfast
Rest Lounge
Sauna
Massage
Couples
Solo Travelers
Groups
Everyone
English Speaking Staff
Free Parking
Shuttle Service
Credit Cards Accepted
Online Reservations

Most Suitable For 👫

Ryokan Onsen
Hotel Onsen
Private Bathing Allowed
Traditional Indoor Bath
Rotenburo Outdoor Bath
In-Room Onsen
Private Bath Available
Kaiseki Dinner
Casual Dinner
Breakfast
Rest Lounge
Sauna
Massage
Couples
Solo Travelers
Groups
Everyone
English Speaking Staff
Free Parking
Shuttle Service
Credit Cards Accepted
Online Reservations

Hospitality Services 🛎️

Ryokan Onsen
Hotel Onsen
Private Bathing Allowed
Traditional Indoor Bath
Rotenburo Outdoor Bath
In-Room Onsen
Private Bath Available
Kaiseki Dinner
Casual Dinner
Breakfast
Rest Lounge
Sauna
Massage
Couples
Solo Travelers
Groups
Everyone
English Speaking Staff
Free Parking
Shuttle Service
Credit Cards Accepted
Online Reservations

Bathing Experience & Onsen Etiquette

Immerse yourself in CHIKUSENSO's sodium-bicarbonate-sulfate waters, drawn directly from Togatta Onsen's ancient source and maintained at a soothing 65.1°C. The pH-neutral composition creates a silky sensation on your skin while delivering therapeutic benefits for muscle tension, joint discomfort, and various skin conditions. The resort's private outdoor baths showcase thoughtful cypress wood and natural stone designs that frame breathtaking mountain vistas. As you soak in the mineral-rich waters, feel the gentle mountain breeze and listen to nature's soundtrack—seasonal birds, rustling leaves, and distant streams—creating a multisensory experience that calms the mind while the waters heal the body. For tattooed travelers, these private sanctuaries offer unrestricted enjoyment of Japan's bathing culture.

Prices & Ticket Options

  • Standard Suite with Private Onsen: From ¥35,000 per person (including kaiseki dinner and breakfast)
  • Deluxe Suite with Private Onsen: From ¥45,000 per person (including enhanced kaiseki dinner and breakfast)
  • VIP Suite Experience: From ¥65,000 per person (premium dining, enhanced amenities)
  • Private Outdoor Onsen Reservation: Complimentary for guests (45-minute sessions)
  • Note: Rates vary by season, day of week, and occupancy; check official website for current pricing

Booking & Contact Information

Advance reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons (cherry blossom, autumn foliage, and winter snow). The resort offers online booking in English with special packages that include meals and private onsen experiences.

🌐 Website: http://mtzaoresort.com/en/

📞 Phone: +81 0224-34-7111

📍 Address: 88-11 Togatta Onsen Uenohara, Zao-machi, Katta-gun, Miyagi 989-0916, Japan

Opening Hours

  • Check-in: 15:00
  • Check-out: 10:00

Guest Reviews from Tattooed Travellers

Directions to Chikusenso Onsen in Zao Onsen

✈️ From Sendai Airport → 🚗 1-hour drive / 🚐 Resort shuttle (reservation required)

🚆 From Sendai Station → 🚐 50-minute resort shuttle (complimentary, reservation required)

🚉 From Shiroishi-Zaō Station → 🚕 25-minute taxi ride (recommended over limited local buses)

FAQ

Question text goes here

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros elementum tristique. Duis cursus, mi quis viverra ornare, eros dolor interdum nulla, ut commodo diam libero vitae erat. Aenean faucibus nibh et justo cursus id rutrum lorem imperdiet. Nunc ut sem vitae risus tristique posuere.

Overview

✔️ Tattoo Policy: Private Bathing Allowed

Rating: 4.5/5 (200 reviews)

♨️ Category: Ryokan Onsen

🌸 Private Baths: Yes

🗺️ Location: Zao Onsen, Miyagi