1. Introduction
Tattoos have become increasingly popular in recent years, and many people are considering getting one or already have one. But what if you’re planning a trip to Japan? Is it legal to go to Japan with tattoos? Will you be allowed entry into the country? In this article, we will answer all of these questions and provide an expert opinion on the matter.
2. Tattoos and Japan’s History
Tattoos have a long and complicated history in Japan. Historically, tattoos were associated with criminals and gangs, which led to a general negative view of them as a whole. In 1948, the Japanese government passed laws that made it illegal for anyone to get a tattoo without proper authorization from the government. This law was eventually repealed in 1998, but even today there is still some stigma attached to tattoos in Japan.
3. Is it Legal to Have Tattoos in Japan?
The short answer is yes: it is legal to have tattoos in Japan. While there are some restrictions on where you can go with visible tattoos (more on that later), there are no laws that prohibit having tattoos or getting one while visiting the country.
4. Acceptance of Tattoos in Japan Today
The attitude towards tattoos has shifted somewhat over the years, though they are still not widely accepted by everyone in society. That said, there is an increasing acceptance of body art among younger generations and some businesses are beginning to relax their policies regarding visible tattoos at work or in public places.
5. Are There Places That Don’t Allow Visiting with Tattoos?
Yes, there are certain places that do not allow visitors with visible tattoos due to cultural sensitivities or religious beliefs such as temples and shrines. It is best to cover up any visible tattoos when visiting these places out of respect for local customs and practices.
6. What Should I Do If I Already Have a Tattoo?
If you already have a tattoo, the best thing you can do is cover it up when visiting certain places or attending events where visible body art may be frowned upon or even prohibited altogether (such as swimming pools). You can also consider getting temporary tattoo covers which are available at most beauty supply stores or online retailers such as Amazon or eBay.
7 Are There Any Other Restrictions on Visiting Japan With Tattoos?
No, there are no other restrictions on visiting Japan with tattoos other than covering them up when appropriate or requested by local authorities/venues/establishments etc.. It is important however to remember that some people may still take offense at seeing exposed body art so please always be respectful of local customs and practices when traveling abroad – especially when visiting religious sites like temples and shrines!
8 Conclusion
In conclusion, it is legal to visit Japan with tattoos but there may be certain places where they should be covered up out of respect for local customs and practices – such as temples and shrines etc.. Additionally, please always remember that some people may still take offense at seeing exposed body art so please always be respectful of local customs when traveling abroad!
9 Resources & References
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Tokoyama C (2020) Can I Go To Japan With Tattoos? Available at: https://japaninsidersguideblogsite-1d0c6b3a6e8f4419a9b39767a9c21f53-00013eb7d04e20e7c7cfefbde8e0cd17-00013eb7d04e20e7c7cfefbde8e0cd17-00013eb7d04e20e7c7cfefbde8e0cd17-00013eb7d04e20f01f48bc622cc6110fe-00013eb7d04e20f01f48bc622cc6110fe-00013eb7d04ee4bf4fc68254037fa9ff5-00013eb81400acd1dfbbdc96ce534af05/blog/can-i-go-to-japan-with-tattoos/ [Accessed 10 June 2020]
Can foreigners with tattoos go to Japan?
But before we get into the details the simple answer to the question posed in the title of this article is: Yes you can definitely go to Japan if you have a tattoo.
Are you allowed to have tattoos in Japan?
Tattoos are still not uncommon in Japan but they do exist. Tattooing is completely legal in Japan and until 2020 tattoo artists are not legally approved to work without a medical license.
How strict is Japan on tattoos?
Tattoos associated with organized crime have long been banned in Japan. Many hot springs resorts and gyms do not accept people with tattoos. Companies often explicitly ban inked applicants.
Why is Japan strict on tattoos?
Body ink has long been stigmatized in Japan due to its association with the criminal underworld. In recent years tattoos have been linked to the Yakuza Japans largest organized crime group but their mysterious history goes back far.
Can Americans show tattoos in Japan?
Although tattoos are not illegal they can prevent people from getting the full Japanese experience. Tourists with visible tattoos may want to remind some locals that their ink is offensive when using public transportation in Japan such as trains.
How do you cover a tattoo in Japan?
In addition to booking a private onsen (which can be expensive) you can buy body stickers and skin colored patches to disguise your body art.
