Yes, Yamatoya Honten allows guests with tattoos without restrictions.
Yamatoya Honten (大和屋本店) is a cultural treasure immersed in Japan's bathing tradition, established in 1868 in the historic Dogo Onsen area of Ehime Prefecture. This distinguished ryokan sits at the heart of one of Japan's oldest hot spring regions, with a bathing culture spanning an incredible 3,000 years and a legacy that includes hosting the Imperial Family.
While sometimes confused with a similarly-named establishment in Osaka, the authentic Yamatoya Honten onsen experience awaits in Ehime on Shikoku island, where you can bathe in the same therapeutic waters that have drawn visitors for millennia. For tattooed travelers seeking a genuine onsen ryokan experience with cultural significance, this historic property offers a deeper connection to Japan's bathing traditions.
Fully Tattoo Friendly: Yamatoya Honten allows tattooed guests to enjoy their onsen with a tattoo friendly policy. Note that guests with large tattoos (e.g., full sleeves) are advised to check with the staff before booking.
- Imperial Legacy: Experience bathing facilities that once hosted Emperor Showa, including the exclusive Yushinden imperial bathing area
- Cultural Immersion: Enjoy daily performances on the ryokan's dedicated Noh theater stage
- Architectural Beauty: Stay in rooms crafted with traditional Kyoto techniques featuring earthen walls made with authentic Kyoto clay
- Therapeutic Waters: Benefit from simple alkaline hot springs (pH 9.1) known for relieving muscle pain and fatigue
- Historic Significance: Connect with over 3,000 years of Japanese bathing tradition in one of the country's oldest hot spring regions
- Culinary Excellence: Savor kaiseki multi-course meals showcasing seasonal local ingredients
Onsen Facilities & Amenities
Bathing Experience & Onsen Etiquette
At Yamatoya Honten, your bathing ritual connects you with centuries of Japanese tradition. Immerse yourself in the alkaline-rich waters (pH 9.1) that emerge naturally heated from deep within the earth. These "simple hot springs" (単純温泉) might lack strong mineral scents but deliver therapeutic benefits that have drawn visitors for millennia.
The bathing areas feature both indoor facilities and open-air rotenburo, allowing you to experience the contrast between sheltered tradition and nature-embraced relaxation. The alkaline properties of the water leave your skin noticeably smooth and soft, while the gentle heat penetrates deep into muscles to melt away fatigue—the same restorative experience that once rejuvenated emperors after their long journeys.
Prices & Ticket Options
- Standard Room (Two Guests): Approximately ¥25,000-30,000 per night per person (¥50,000-60,000 total)
- Deluxe Room: From ¥35,000 per night per person
- Package Plans: From approximately ¥30,000 per person including breakfast and dinner
- Day Bathing Only: Contact directly for availability and current rates
- All prices include tax and service charges
Booking & Contact Information
Advance reservations are essential, particularly during cherry blossom season (late March-April) and autumn foliage (November). For tattooed travelers, we recommend mentioning your tattoos when booking to confirm their current policy.
🌐 Website: Yamatoya Honten Official Site (Japanese) or Selected Ryokan Listing (English)
📞 Phone: +81 89-921-5141
📍 Address: Dogo Onsen, Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture, Japan
Opening Hours
Guest Reviews from Tattooed Travellers
✈️ From Matsuyama Airport → 🚌 40-minute airport bus to Dogo Onsen bus stop → 🚶 5-minute walk
🚅 From Okayama Station (Shinkansen) → 🚂 Limited Express to Matsuyama Station (2.5 hours) → 🚋 20-minute tram to Dogo Onsen → 🚶 5-minute walk
🚇 From Matsuyama City → 🚋 Take the Iyotetsu tram line to Dogo Onsen terminus → 🚶 5-minute walk
Map
FAQ
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Overview