Jizo Yu Onsen - A Tattoo-Friendly Hot Spring in Kinosaki Onsen, Hyogo

Does Jizo Yu Onsen Allow Tattoos?

Yes, Jizo Yu Onsen allows guests with tattoos without restrictions.

Overview of Jizo Yu Onsen

Nestled in the charming streets of Kinosaki Onsen town, Jizō-Yu (地蔵湯) stands as one of the seven legendary public bathhouses that have defined this hot spring paradise for generations. Named after a Jizō Bodhisattva statue discovered within its spring source, this beloved onsen combines spiritual heritage with therapeutic relaxation. Its distinctive hexagonal windows—inspired by the natural columnar joints of nearby Genbudō Park—create mesmerizing patterns of light that dance across the water's surface throughout the day.

As part of Kinosaki's inclusive bathing culture, Jizō-Yu warmly welcomes tattooed visitors from around the world, offering you an authentic Japanese bathing experience without worry or hesitation. Here, your self-expression through body art becomes part of the rich tapestry of human experience that has flowed through these healing waters for centuries.

Tattoo Rules & Guidelines

Fully Tattoo-Friendly: Jizō-Yu welcomes guests with tattoos of all sizes and designs with no coverage requirements or restrictions whatsoever. This policy applies consistently across all seven of Kinosaki's public bathhouses, making the entire town a sanctuary for tattooed travelers seeking authentic onsen experiences.

Why Bathe Here? Benefits and History

  • Spiritual Heritage: Named after the Jizō Bodhisattva (guardian of travelers and children) discovered in its spring source, creating a uniquely peaceful atmosphere
  • Architectural Marvel: Features stunning hexagonal windows inspired by the volcanic rock formations of nearby Genbudō Park, creating beautiful light patterns across the water
  • Local Authenticity: Preferred by Kinosaki residents for its unpretentious, communal atmosphere—giving you a glimpse into genuine Japanese bathing culture
  • Family-Inclusive Design: Offers specialized children's baths decorated with local mascots, making it perfect for tattooed parents traveling with little ones
  • Therapeutic Waters: Features sodium-calcium chloride springs at a perfect 43°C, renowned for relieving muscle tension and improving circulation
  • Central Location: Just a 5-minute stroll from Kinosaki Onsen Station, making it an easy first experience in your seven-bath pilgrimage

Onsen Facilities & Amenities

Type of Onsen ♨️

Traditional Indoor Bath
Fully Tattoo Friendly
Vending Machines
Rest Lounge
Solo Travelers
Family Friendly
Everyone
Walk-Ins Welcome
Cash Only
No Private Bath Available
Day Use Onsen

Tattoo Policy ✅

Traditional Indoor Bath
Fully Tattoo Friendly
Vending Machines
Rest Lounge
Solo Travelers
Family Friendly
Everyone
Walk-Ins Welcome
Cash Only
No Private Bath Available
Day Use Onsen

Bath Types 🛁  

Traditional Indoor Bath
Fully Tattoo Friendly
Vending Machines
Rest Lounge
Solo Travelers
Family Friendly
Everyone
Walk-Ins Welcome
Cash Only
No Private Bath Available
Day Use Onsen

Private Onsen Baths 🔒

Traditional Indoor Bath
Fully Tattoo Friendly
Vending Machines
Rest Lounge
Solo Travelers
Family Friendly
Everyone
Walk-Ins Welcome
Cash Only
No Private Bath Available
Day Use Onsen

Food & Drinks 🍽️

Traditional Indoor Bath
Fully Tattoo Friendly
Vending Machines
Rest Lounge
Solo Travelers
Family Friendly
Everyone
Walk-Ins Welcome
Cash Only
No Private Bath Available
Day Use Onsen

Relaxation & Wellness 🌸

Traditional Indoor Bath
Fully Tattoo Friendly
Vending Machines
Rest Lounge
Solo Travelers
Family Friendly
Everyone
Walk-Ins Welcome
Cash Only
No Private Bath Available
Day Use Onsen

Most Suitable For 👫

Traditional Indoor Bath
Fully Tattoo Friendly
Vending Machines
Rest Lounge
Solo Travelers
Family Friendly
Everyone
Walk-Ins Welcome
Cash Only
No Private Bath Available
Day Use Onsen

Hospitality Services 🛎️

Traditional Indoor Bath
Fully Tattoo Friendly
Vending Machines
Rest Lounge
Solo Travelers
Family Friendly
Everyone
Walk-Ins Welcome
Cash Only
No Private Bath Available
Day Use Onsen

Bathing Experience & Onsen Etiquette

Stepping into Jizō-Yu's main bath chamber reveals a steaming sanctuary where time seems to slow beneath those iconic hexagonal windows. The high-temperature waters (43°C) envelope your body in mineral-rich comfort, with their sodium-calcium chloride composition working magic on tired muscles and travel-weary joints. The therapeutic properties are particularly effective for improving circulation and relieving the fatigue that often accompanies long journeys.

The bathing area offers versatile experiences within one space—a section with massage jets targets your lower back after days of exploration, while the deeper soaking zone allows for full-body immersion in the silky waters. After your soak, the second-floor tatami relaxation area invites you to experience the blissful state of "yu-ague" (post-bath tranquility) that Japanese bathers have cherished for centuries, as your body temperature gradually normalizes in the heated lounge.

Prices & Ticket Options

  • Adults: ¥800
  • Children (3-12 years): ¥400
  • Small Bath Towel: ¥200 (or bring your own)
  • Bath Towel: Available for additional fee
  • Kinosaki Onsen Pass: ¥1,300 for unlimited access to all seven public baths for 3 days (available at tourist information center or your ryokan)

Booking & Contact Information

No reservations are required for Jizō-Yu's public baths—simply show up during operating hours, purchase your ticket, and enjoy this tattoo-friendly bathhouse without any pre-planning necessary.

🌐 WebsiteVisit Kinosaki Official Website

📞 Phone: +81 796-32-2228

📍 Address: 796 Yushima, Kinosakicho, Toyooka, Hyogo 669-6101, Japan

Opening Hours

  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: 7:00 – 23:00
  • Wednesday: 7:00 – 23:00
  • Thursday: 7:00 – 23:00
  • Friday: 7:00 – 23:00
  • Saturday: 7:00 – 23:00
  • Sunday: 7:00 – 23:00

Guest Reviews from Tattooed Travellers

Spacious onsen, they also have a spa pool for kids in which is not as hot as the adults one. Clean facilities, with soap, and hair dryers provided. Foreigners and tattoos are welcome 😁

Directions to Jizo Yu Onsen in Kinosaki Onsen

🚆 From JR Kinosaki Onsen Station: 🚶‍♂️ 5-minute walk northwest via Ekidori Street—follow the central canal path and look for the distinctive red-accented exterior with hexagonal windows

🚗 By Car: Several paid parking lots are available throughout Kinosaki Onsen town (¥500-800 per day). The bathhouse itself has no dedicated parking, but public lots are within 3-5 minutes walking distance.

🚋 From Other Onsen in Kinosaki: All seven bathhouses are within 15 minutes walking distance of each other, making Jizō-Yu easy to incorporate into your "onsen meguri" (bath hopping) experience

FAQ

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Overview

✔️ Tattoo Policy: Fully Tattoo Friendly

Rating: 3.8/5 (998 reviews)

♨️ Category: Day Use Onsen

🌸 Private Baths: Yes

🗺️ Location: Kinosaki Onsen, Hyogo