Looking for tattoo-friendly onsen in Shima Onsen?
This guide covers all 26 verified locations, from traditional public baths to private luxury ryokans.
Click here for the full list of tattoo-friendly onsen in Shima Onsen.
https://www.tattoo-friendly.com/area/shima-onsen
Access from Major Cities
Shima Onsen, located in the mountains of Gunma Prefecture, is famous for its retro atmosphere and the legendary "Sekizenkan" ryokan. Its name literally means "40,000 cures," as its waters were believed to cure 40,000 different ailments.
From Tokyo (Approx. 3 to 4 hours)
- By Direct Bus (Easiest Way): Take the "Shima Onsen Go" (Shima Onsen Liner) direct highway bus from the Tokyo Station Yaesu Exit.
- Tip: This is the most cost-effective and stress-free way as there are no transfers. It takes about 3.5 to 4 hours.
- By Train (Fastest Way): Take the Hokuriku or Joetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Takasaki Station. Transfer to the JR Agatsuma Line and get off at Nakanojo Station.
- Note: From Nakanojo Station, take a local bus (Kan-etsu Kotsu Bus) bound for Shima Onsen (approx. 40 minutes).
- By Limited Express: Take the Limited Express "Kusatsu・Shima" from Ueno Station directly to Nakanojo Station, then take the local bus.
From Karuizawa (Approx. 2 hours)
- By Car: Drive through the scenic mountain roads via Route 145 and 146. It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Pro-Tip for Travelers: Shima Onsen is known for being very walkable. Most of the town's highlights, including the historic bathhouses and the river, are clustered along the valley. Unlike many other resorts, the water here is drinkable at specific "drinking fountains" (飲泉場) around town—it's said to be great for digestion!
Tattoo-Friendly Onsens
Shima Onsen Izumiya
Shima Onsen Hinatami Kan
Shima Onsen Yuzuriha
Shima Onsen Yamabato
Shima Onsen Kanouya
Shima Onsen Tsuruya
Shima Onsen Jizake No Yado Nakamuraya
Shima Onsen Jizake No Yado Nakamuraya›
Shima Onsen Ichigekan
Shima Onsen Shin Toji Lulud
Shima Onsen Shima Yamaguchikan
Shima Onsen Shima Yamaguchikan›
Shima Onsen Yamano Ryokan
Shima Onsen Sekizenkan Honkan
Shima Onsen Sekizenkan Honkan›
Shima Onsen Tubataya Ryokan
Shima Onsen Ryokan Mikunien
Shima Onsen Sekizenkan Sansou
Shima Onsen Sekizenkan Sansou›
Shima Onsen Yumoto Shimakan
Shima Onsen Yoshimoto
Shima Onsen Kotobukiya Ryokan
Shima Onsen Kotobukiya Ryokan›
Shima Onsen Shima Tamura
Shima Onsen Shima Grand Hotel
Shima Onsen Shima Grand Hotel›
Shima Onsen Kashiwaya Ryokan
Shima Onsen Shojukan
Shima Onsen Mikiya Ryokan
Shima Onsen Syunmokutei Nakazawa Ryokan
Shima Onsen Syunmokutei Nakazawa Ryokan›
Shima Onsen Toshimaya
Shima Onsen Ayameya Ryokan
