La Vista Akangawa - A Tattoo-Friendly Hot Spring in Kushiro, Hokkaido

Does La Vista Akangawa Allow Tattoos?

Partially, tattoos are accepted at La Vista Akangawa, but only in private baths—not public bath areas.

Overview of La Vista Akangawa

Nestled along the pristine shores of the Akan River in Hokkaido's unspoiled wilderness, Hotel & Spa Resort La Vista Akangawa (ラビスタ阿寒川) offers tattooed travelers a luxurious sanctuary amid nature's splendor. This adults-only 4-star retreat seamlessly blends contemporary elegance with traditional Japanese hospitality, creating an intimate atmosphere where guests can unwind in private cypress-wood baths while watching Hokkaido's iconic wildlife – from majestic Steller's sea eagles to gentle deer – against a backdrop of virgin forest. Far from the constraints often faced by tattooed visitors at traditional establishments, La Vista Akangawa provides thoughtful accommodation options that ensure everyone can experience the therapeutic benefits of Hokkaido's famed hot springs, accompanied by award-winning kaiseki cuisine that celebrates the region's seasonal bounty.

Tattoo Rules & Guidelines

Private Bathing Allowed: While communal baths maintain traditional no-tattoo policies, tattooed guests can fully enjoy the onsen experience through three dedicated private hot spring baths (available by free reservation) and the private cypress-wood bath included in every guest room.

Why Bathe Here? Benefits and History

  • Complete Privacy: Adults-only policy and in-room private baths ensure an intimate, judgment-free bathing experience regardless of tattoo size or placement
  • Immersive Nature: Floor-to-ceiling windows frame breathtaking views of the Akan River and virgin forests from every bath and room
  • Culinary Excellence: Multi-course kaiseki dinners showcase Hokkaido's premium ingredients including fresh-caught salmon and local venison
  • Wildlife Encounters: Regular sightings of Hokkaido deer, Steller's sea eagles, and other wildlife directly from your room or private bath
  • Authentic Luxury: Traditional Japanese aesthetics blend with modern comforts for an elevated onsen experience
  • Seasonal Beauty: Each season offers unique natural spectacles, from spring cherry blossoms to winter snow scenes illuminated by starlight

Onsen Facilities & Amenities

Type of Onsen ♨️

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

Tattoo Policy ✅

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

Bath Types 🛁  

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

Private Onsen Baths 🔒

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

Food & Drinks 🍽️

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

Relaxation & Wellness 🌸

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

Most Suitable For 👫

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

Hospitality Services 🛎️

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

Bathing Experience & Onsen Etiquette

La Vista Akangawa offers an uncompromising onsen experience for tattooed travelers through its thoughtfully designed bathing options. Each guest room features a private cypress-wood bath overlooking the Akan River, where you can soak at your leisure while spotting local wildlife or stargazing through floor-to-ceiling windows—with no concerns about tattoo visibility.

The onsen's waters are classified as simple hot springs with a soothing alkaline pH of 9.1, renowned for their skin-softening properties and ability to improve circulation. Maintaining a therapeutic temperature between 40–42°C, these mineral-rich waters help relieve muscle tension, reduce inflammation, and promote a sense of deep relaxation that continues long after your bath concludes.

Prices & Ticket Options

  • Standard Room (River View): From ¥42,000 ($380) per night for two guests
  • Deluxe Room (Forest View): From ¥48,000 ($435) per night for two guests
  • Premium Suite (Panoramic View): From ¥65,000 ($590) per night for two guests
  • All Rates Include: Daily kaiseki dinner, buffet breakfast, in-room private bath, access to communal facilities
  • Private Bath Reservation: Complimentary (60-minute sessions, advance booking recommended)
  • Spa Treatments: From ¥8,000 ($72) for 60-minute massage

Booking & Contact Information

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons (cherry blossom, autumn foliage, and winter snow viewing). Private bath reservations can be made upon check-in or in advance for preferred time slots.

🌐 Website: https://la-vista-akangawa.hokkaidohotelsjapan.com/en/

📞 Phone: +81-154-67-5566

📍 Address: 3-1 Akancho Okurushbe, Akankohan, Kushiro, Hokkaido 085-0468, Japan

Opening Hours

  • Check-in: 15:00
  • Check-out: 11:00

Guest Reviews from Tattooed Travellers

Directions to La Vista Akangawa in Kushiro

✈️ From Kushiro Airport: 

  • 🚗 55-minute drive (rental car)
  • 🚌 75-minute bus to Lake Akan Bus Center → 🚐 7-minute hotel shuttle (reservation required)

🚆 From JR Kushiro Station: 

  • 🚌 75-minute bus to Lake Akan Bus Center → 🚐 7-minute hotel shuttle
  • 🚕 60-minute taxi (approximately ¥16,000)

🚌 From Lake Akan Bus Center: 

  • 🚐 7-minute complimentary shuttle (advance reservation required)
  • 🚶 25-minute walk along scenic riverside path

FAQ

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Overview

✔️ Tattoo Policy: Private Bathing Allowed

Rating: 4.3/5 (1145 reviews)

♨️ Category: Ryokan Onsen

🌸 Private Baths: Yes

🗺️ Location: Kushiro, Hokkaido