Question

I'm planning a trip to Japan and I've heard that visiting an onsen (hot spring) is a must-do experience. Can you find me a highly-recommended onsen in the Japanese Alps that is accessible by public transportation and suitable for visitors with tattoos?

Answer 1

Visiting an onsen is indeed a quintessential experience in Japan! In the Japanese Alps, one of the highly-recommended onsen that you can consider is **Kinosaki Onsen**.

### Kinosaki Onsen
- **Location**: Located in Hyogo Prefecture, Kinosaki Onsen is known for its charming atmosphere, with picturesque streets lined with traditional ryokans (Japanese inns) and a variety of public bathhouses.
- **Public Transportation**: Kinosaki Onsen is accessible by train. You can take the JR Sanin Line from Kyoto or Osaka, and it will take you to the Kinosaki Onsen station. The journey is scenic and a popular choice among travelers.
- **Tattoo Policy**: While many onsens in Japan have strict restrictions against tattoos due to yakuza associations, Kinosaki Onsen has become more accommodating. Some ryokans and public baths allow guests with tattoos and even provide cover-up stickers to ensure a comfortable experience for all visitors.

### Suggested Ryokans
1. **Nishimuraya Honkan**: A historic ryokan with beautiful tatami rooms and a variety of onsen options.
2. **Yamamotoya**: Known for its welcoming attitude towards tattooed guests and excellent hospitality.

### Tips
- It's a good idea to check in advance with specific ryokans or baths regarding their tattoo policies, as they may vary.
- You can experience the "onsen-hopping" tradition by visiting different public bathhouses in Kinosaki, all included with your ryokan stay.

Overall, Kinosaki Onsen offers a wonderful combination of traditional Japanese culture, beautiful scenery, and a relaxing onsen experience, making it a fantastic choice for your trip to the Japanese Alps!