Nestled in the mountains of Fukushima Prefecture, Attakayu Public Onsen (高湯温泉共同浴場 あったか湯) offers tattooed travelers a rare glimpse into Japan's 400-year-old hot spring healing tradition. Unlike many commercialized bathing facilities, this authentic mountain onsen delivers an unfiltered experience with its milky-blue, sulfur-rich waters flowing directly from ten natural springs.
Here, traditional healing practices meet contemporary inclusivity, as Attakayu not only preserves the meditative silence of ancient bathing culture but also welcomes visitors with tattoos of all sizes and styles. The rustic wooden structure, affordable pricing, and therapeutic waters create an ideal destination for those seeking both cultural immersion and relaxation without the worry of tattoo restrictions.
Fully Tattoo-Friendly: Attakayu Public Onsen explicitly welcomes tattooed guests in all public and private bathing areas with no restrictions, cover-ups, or special reservations required – making it a standout choice for international visitors with body art.
- Authentic Healing Waters: Experience strongly acidic sulfur springs (42.8°C–50.5°C) renowned for treating circulatory and metabolic conditions
- Tattoo-Friendly Tradition: Enjoy complete acceptance of tattoos in all bathing areas – no cover-ups needed
- Affordable Accessibility: Soak in therapeutic waters for just ¥250, with private bath options at reasonable prices
- Rustic Mountain Setting: Immerse yourself in an Edo-period atmosphere with traditional wooden bathhouses nestled in the Azuma Highlands
- Rich in Mineral Benefits: Benefit from the high hydrogen sulfide content that creates the distinctive milky-blue waters locals have trusted for centuries
- Tranquil Experience: Embrace the silent bathing tradition that preserves the meditative quality of traditional onsen culture
Onsen Facilities & Amenities
Bathing Experience & Onsen Etiquette
Sinking into Attakayu's stone-lined pools offers an experience unchanged for centuries. The distinctive milky-blue waters, rich in hydrogen sulfide with a highly acidic pH of approximately 1.4, envelop your body in mineral goodness. Mountain breezes carry the distinctive sulfur aroma as you gaze at the surrounding peaks, creating a multi-sensory healing ritual.
These waters have earned their reputation for alleviating hypertension, atherosclerosis, and diabetes through their powerful anti-inflammatory and purifying properties. While traditional cure-seekers stay for 10-day treatments, even a single visit delivers deep relaxation and skin-softening benefits as the natural minerals penetrate your body in blissful silence.
Prices & Ticket Options
- Standard Public Bath: Adults ¥250, Children ¥120 (1-hour limit)
- Private Bath Reservation: ¥1,000 (50-minute session, minimum 2 people)
- No Entry Fee for Tattoos: Unlike some onsen that charge extra for tattooed guests, all visitors pay the same reasonable rate
Booking & Contact Information
Attakayu welcomes walk-ins for public bathing, while private baths can be reserved on-site upon arrival (no advance booking available). This traditional facility maintains its historic simplicity with straightforward service.
🌐 Website: Takayu Onsen Tourism Association
📞 Phone: +81-24-591-1125
📍 Address: 25 Takayu, Machiniwazaka, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture 960-2261, Japan
Opening Hours
- Monday: 06:00–21:00
- Tuesday: 06:00–21:00
- Wednesday: 06:00–21:00
- Thursday: 06:00–21:00
- Friday: 06:00–21:00
- Saturday: 06:00–21:00
- Sunday: 06:00–21:00
Guest Reviews from Tattooed Travellers
🚆 From Fukushima Station → 🚌 Fukushima Transportation bus to Takayu Onsen (30 min, ~¥600) → 🚶 Alight at "Highland-mae" stop
🚗 By Car → Take Route 70 from Fukushima Nishi IC (Tohoku Expressway) → 30 min drive → Free parking available
✈️ From Fukushima Airport → 🚖 45-minute taxi ride (recommended) or rental car
Map
FAQ
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