Formal — to staff
Onsen · Public · Bath
You
すみません、小さなタトゥーがあるのですが、入浴しても大丈夫でしょうか？
すみません、ちいさなタトゥーがあるのですが、にゅうよくしてもだいじょうぶでしょうか？
Excuse me, I have a small tattoo, is it okay to use the bath?
Romaji: Sumimasen, chiisana tatū ga aru no desu ga, nyūyoku shite mo daijōbu deshō ka? / Reply Romaji: Chiisana okyakusama no tatū de areba, hoka no okyakusama ni gohairyo itadakereba mondai gozaimasen.
Reply
小さなお客様のタトゥーであれば、他のお客様にご配慮いただければ問題ございません。
ちいさなおきゃくさまのタトゥーであれば、ほかのおきゃくさまにごはいりょいただければもんだいございません。
If it's a small tattoo, there's no problem as long as you are considerate of other guests.
Gesture & etiquette
Indicate the smallness of the tattoo with thumb and forefinger or point to the area if appropriate and discreet.
Some establishments have strict 'no tattoo' policies regardless of size. Be prepared for a 'no' and do not argue. If allowed, be discreet and mindful of others. Covering it with a waterproof plaster is often recommended.