I have a tattoo. Can I visit a public swimming pool in Japan?

In Japan, showing your ink will see you banned from certain places like pools, onsens (bath houses), gyms and many ryokans (Japanese inns).

1. Can I visit Japan if I have tattoos?
2. Are swimming pools bad for tattoos?
3. Can I jump in a pool with a new tattoo?
4. Why are tattoos bad in Japan?
5. Are tattoos a sin?
6. Can foreigners get tattoos in Japan?
7. How do I protect my tattoo when swimming?
8. How long can you swim after a tattoo?
9. Can I swim 10 days after tattoo?
10. How long after tattoo can you go in sun?
11. Can a tattoo heal in a week?
12. What is a tattoo blowout?

Can I visit Japan if I have tattoos?

Suggestions for Tourists With Tattoos

While tattoos are not illegal, they can prevent people from getting the full Japanese experience. When using public transportation in Japan, such as trains, tourists with visible tattoos will want to keep in mind that their ink may be offensive to some of the locals.

Are swimming pools bad for tattoos?

Damage to your tattoo

Chlorine and salt water are especially hard on fresh tattoos, because both can leach ink from a tattoo, making the color less vibrant. Swimming can also dry out your skin and prolong healing, leading to more itching, flaking, and scabbing. This can also cause fading, patchiness, and blurred lines.

Can I jump in a pool with a new tattoo?

Essentially, a new tattoo is an open wound. That's why you're supposed to stay out of open water, hot tubs, and pools until it heals. ... Additionally, chlorine and other chemicals can be painful to an open wound and cause redness. A new tattoo needs to breathe and air dry in order to heal well.

Why are tattoos bad in Japan?

It's because of the association between tattoos and a mafia-like group called the yakuza - which has operated in Japan for hundreds of years. "Some people see them as a necessary evil and other people see them as just, they should disappear," says Anton Kusters.

Are tattoos a sin?

There are some Christians who believe it is a sin. The verse in the Bible that most Christians make reference to is Leviticus 19:28, which says,”You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor tattoo any marks on you: I am the Lord.” So, why is this verse in the Bible?

Can foreigners get tattoos in Japan?

In March, the Japan Tourism Agency kindly requested onsen and bath house operators to please, please accept tattooed foreigners—but turning away Japanese with tattoos is still okay.

How do I protect my tattoo when swimming?

Protect Your Tattoo

1. Clean and dry your tattoo thoroughly to ensure it is clear of bacteria.
2. Wrap the tattoo with a waterproof material, such as plastic wrap.
3. Do your best to seal the plastic tightly with medical adhesive.
4. Avoid staying in the water for a long time.
5. Remove the wrap straight away once you're out of the water.

How long can you swim after a tattoo?

You should wait for your tattoo to fully heal — which can take at least 2 to 4 weeks — before swimming in any kind of water.

Can I swim 10 days after tattoo?

According to tattoo guidelines, you're supposed to wait two weeks before swimming in the pool or ocean to allow the ink to heal — up until that point, your tattoo is still an open wound and needs to be cared for like one.

How long after tattoo can you go in sun?

Wait at least 10-14 days for your tattoo to heal before exposing it to the sun. Follow tattoo aftercare instructions before heading outdoors and remember, never expose a new tattoo in it's healing stage to the direct rays.

Can a tattoo heal in a week?

After getting a tattoo, the outer layer of skin (the part you can see) will typically heal within 2 to 3 weeks. While it may look and feel healed, and you may be tempted to slow down on the aftercare, it can take as long as 6 months for the skin below a tattoo to truly heal.

What is a tattoo blowout?

Tattoo blowouts occur when a tattoo artist presses too hard when applying ink to the skin. The ink is sent below the top layers of skin where tattoos belong. Below the skin's surface, the ink spreads out in a layer of fat.