Ryujin Onsen Motoyu - A Tattoo-Friendly Hot Spring in Tanabe, Wakayama

Nestled in the mystical mountains of Tanabe, Wakayama Prefecture, Ryujin Onsen Motoyu beckons with 1,300 years of storied history and the promise of skin-beautifying waters. Discovered by the mountain ascetic En no Gyoja and later sanctified by the revered Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi, this hidden gem has earned its reputation as one of Japan's top three "beautiful skin" onsen. The sodium bicarbonate-rich waters flow directly from source to bath through the traditional kakenagashi system, preserving every mineral benefit nature intended.

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As you soak in the open-air rock baths overlooking the pristine Hidaka River valley, you'll understand why generations of Japanese travelers have made the journey to this secluded sanctuary. Ryujin Onsen Motoyu offers more than just a bath—it provides an authentic glimpse into Japan's timeless onsen culture far from the beaten tourist path.

Contact Before Visiting: No explicit tattoo policy is stated in official materials or visitor reviews. We recommend contacting the facility directly to confirm their current policy regarding tattoos before planning your visit.

• Historic Legacy: Experience a 1,300-year-old onsen tradition dating back to the Nara period, with connections to mountain worship and patronage by the Tokugawa shogunate
• Authentic Kakenagashi System: Enjoy untreated spring water flowing directly from source to bath, preserving all natural mineral properties
• Beauty-Enhancing Waters: Benefit from sodium bicarbonate springs celebrated nationwide for their skin-softening and exfoliating properties
• Scenic Mountain Setting: Soak in open-air rock baths while surrounded by the unspoiled forests and valleys of rural Wakayama
• Flexible Accommodation: Stay at the Motoyu Bekkan annex for unlimited bath access and self-catering options away from the crowds

The moment you slip into Ryujin Onsen Motoyu's alkaline waters (pH 9.1), you'll feel the gentle exfoliating effect that has made this bath famous among beauty enthusiasts. The sodium bicarbonate naturally removes dead skin cells while the mineral composition leaves your skin with a silky, rejuvenated texture that persists for days after your visit.

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Choose between the dynamic indoor jet bath (46°C) for therapeutic muscle relief or the tranquil hinoki cypress bath (48°C) where steam rises to meet the mountain air. The open-air rock bath offers perhaps the most magical experience—surrounded by forested cliffs and the gentle sounds of nature, you'll find yourself transported to a bygone era of Japanese bathing culture. The waters here don't just cleanse—they restore both body and spirit.

• Adults (junior high school and above): ¥800
• Elementary school students: ¥400
• Infants: Free
• Annex accommodation (per person): Starting from ¥3,500 (varies by season)

For day visits, no advance reservation is necessary, but calling ahead is recommended for groups and to confirm the tattoo policy. The annex accommodations should be booked in advance, especially during weekend and holiday periods.

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🌐 Website: Official Site

📞 Phone: +81 739-79-0111

📍 Address: 56 Ryujin, Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture 646-1101, Japan

• Monday: 7:00–21:00
• Tuesday: 7:00–21:00
• Wednesday: 7:00–21:00
• Thursday: 7:00–21:00
• Friday: 7:00–21:00
• Saturday: 7:00–21:00
• Sunday: 7:00–21:00