Formal — to staff
Sento · Onsen
小さなタトゥーがあるのですが、絆創膏などで隠せば入浴できますか？ — I have a small tattoo. Can I still use the bath if I cover it with a band-aid or something similar? (Sento · Onsen, Formal — to staff, JLPT N3)
You
小さなタトゥーがあるのですが、絆創膏などで隠せば入浴できますか？
ちいさなタトゥーがあるのですが、ばんそうこうなどでかくせばにゅうよくできますか？
I have a small tattoo. Can I still use the bath if I cover it with a band-aid or something similar?
Romaji: Chiisana tatū ga aru no desu ga, bansōkō nado de kakuseba nyūyoku dekimasu ka? / Reply Romaji: Hai, kanzen ni kakushite itadakereba, go-nyūyoku itadakemasu.
Reply
はい、完全に隠していただければ、ご入浴いただけます。
はい、かんぜんにかくしていただければ、ごにゅうよくいただけます。
Yes, if you can completely cover it, you may use the bath.
Gesture & etiquette
Pointing to the area on your arm where a tattoo might be, then making a covering motion with your other hand.
Tattoos are often associated with yakuza in Japan, so many public baths prohibit them. Always ask politely. Do not assume covering is always acceptable; some places have strict 'no tattoos at all' policies. Never enter without asking first.