Horita Onsen - A Tattoo-Friendly Hot Spring in Beppu Onsen, Oita

Horita Onsen (堀田温泉) offers a serene escape in the mountains of Beppu, where over 300 years of therapeutic bathing history awaits your discovery. As one of the treasured "Beppu Hatto" (eight hot springs of Beppu), this hidden gem combines authentic Edo-period charm with modern accessibility, creating a unique onsen experience far from the tourist crowds.

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Unlike many traditional bathing establishments, Horita Onsen warmly welcomes tattooed visitors, allowing you to experience the historical healing waters that once soothed weary travelers along ancient trade routes. With its rock-hewn outdoor baths and panoramic views of Beppu Bay, Horita offers an authentic Japanese bathing experience where your self-expression is celebrated rather than concealed.

Fully Tattoo-Friendly: Horita Onsen openly welcomes all guests with tattoos regardless of size, design, or number – no covering required and no questions asked.

• Authentic Mountain Retreat: Experience a genuine local onsen in a tranquil forest setting away from commercial tourist spots
• Historical Significance: Bathe in the same therapeutic waters that have healed travelers since the Edo period over 300 years ago
• Tattoo-Friendly Environment: Enjoy complete freedom and acceptance, with no need to cover tattoos or face uncomfortable situations
• Unique "Yunohana" Mineral Experience: Witness the rare natural phenomenon of mineral deposits floating in alkaline waters
• Barrier-Free Accessibility: Designed for all visitors with wheelchair access, handrails, and inclusive facilities
• Breathtaking Views: Soak in open-air baths while gazing at panoramic vistas of Beppu Bay and surrounding mountains

Slipping into Horita's waters is like entering a time capsule of healing traditions. The alkaline springs (pH 9.2) are classified as simple thermal waters rich in sodium and bicarbonate ions, creating a silky-smooth texture that envelops your body. The open-air baths, masterfully carved from natural granite, offer the rare pleasure of bathing amid mountain scenery while the distinctive "Yunohana" minerals—small white flakes of natural bath salts—float around you like miniature lily pads.

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These therapeutic waters are particularly effective for relieving muscle fatigue, improving circulation, and easing chronic pain conditions. Maintaining a comfortable temperature that can be adjusted via cold-water taps, the baths allow for extended soaking sessions as you listen to the gentle chorus of forest sounds. Many tattooed guests report that the mineral content leaves their skin unusually soft and their tattoo colors looking particularly vibrant after bathing.

• Standard Admission: ¥300 per adult
• Private Bath Reservation (nearby Shiraito no Taki): ¥1,000/hour
• Towel Rental: ¥100 (small), ¥300 (large)

Horita Onsen operates primarily on a walk-in basis, with no reservations required for the public baths. During weekday mornings, you'll often have the entire facility nearly to yourself—the perfect time for uninterrupted relaxation.

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📞 Phone: +81 977-24-9418  

📍 Address: 2 Kumi Horita, Beppu, Ōita Prefecture 874-0845, Japan  

⏰ Hours: 6:30 AM–10:30 PM (closed first Wednesday monthly)

• Monday: 6:30 – 22:30  
• Tuesday: 6:30 – 22:30  
• Wednesday: 6:30 – 22:30  
• Thursday: 6:30 – 22:30  
• Friday: 6:30 – 22:30  
• Saturday: 6:30 – 22:30  
• Sunday: 6:30 – 22:30  

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Note: Entry and bathing not permitted between 14:00 and 15:00 due to cleaning._