BEFORE BOOKING A HOTEL WITH A POOL IN JAPAN….I recommend reading this article of mine as the rules are often different to other countries.
Please note, I mean a pool, pool. Not an onsen ( hot spring.)
I mean a swimming pool. Swimming suit on. Splashing. Exercise etc.
If you don’t understand the difference, add that to the list of things to check.
Japan’s approach to hotel swimming pools is different to what I’m used to.
So I wanted to share what I’ve found along the way.
So before you press that magic ‘ PAY NOW’ button. I highly recommend contacting the hotel to ask these questions first.
Can I give another mini suggestion that I’ve learned along the way for those that are internationally minded travelers?
Remember that, in your email, you should use straight forward clear questions.
Overly complicated writing is not going to get you the clearest answer.
Pretend it’s a YES or NO answer game, just like you’d hope anyone would if you were communicating with someone in a new language.
1. Is the cost of the pool actually included in the hotel stay?
So, last year.. during the stickiest Summer we could remember, we decided that we wanted to do a little family Tokyo staycation – at a hotel with a beautiful pool.
But actually, the hotel, for our family was going to cost us a hefty few handfuls of yen but THEN, when I checked? It was an additional 6000 yen per adult per day to actually use the pool.
The reason for this was because this pool is also open to the public in Summer and they are also charging outside pool users ( so the hotel guests were on a rate, but a slightly discounted rate.)
The Hotel New Otani in Tokyo allows for guests on certain packages to swim for “free” and other guests will need to pay extra to make use of the pool facilities.
Non-guests can use the outdoor pool during July and August for 7000 yen each (!)
The Hotel Grandvia in Kyoto Station’s hotel pool is an additional charge unless you are staying on the suite floors, children under 18 can only swim between 7am-9am and everyone will need to wear/borrow swim caps.
2. Is the pool going to be open while you are there?
Many pools and ESPECIALLY outdoor pools are only open in July and August in Japan.
I worked for a hotel that only used their pool for two months of the year. I recommend double checking.
3. The tattoo thing
I don’t mean to be a downer but… the tattoo thing in Japan is a big deal for swimming. And many of the international brands are still struggling with this – even when Japan-based.
I mean, to the point that even a bandaid over a small tattoo may not be ok. (I’m hoping that the upcoming Olympics will bring with it a little bit of change…)
For true piece of mind, check out this site about tattoo friendly Japan.
4. Are children allowed?
This is something I’ve noticed in Japan. The pool’s , in my opinion, fit into one of three categories :
1) fitness and rehabilitation focused
2) bikini and ‘showing off the hot bodies’ focused
3) family friendly.
Many hotels also operate as a members only health club and that often means oldies are doing their walking laps. Which is, of course, fine BUT they may have a no kids rule ( Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel in Shibuya pool is only open for those over 18. The Grand Hyatt in Roppongi allows children between 5-15 years of age between 9am-7pm.)
Another example is the W Osaka. The hotel has an indoor swimming pool but it is only for 16 years+
Another thing? Are kids under potty training age allowed ?
Best to check ( because I’ve been turned away before.)
5. Are swim caps a must?
This isn’t a big deal but if you’re a lie by the pool and then dip in kinda person ? Being told you must wear a swim cap isn’t so much fun. So I would ask in advance.
If you prefer a public swimming pool over a hotel pool or. a splash pad for kids – please check the following :
Opening times (most pools are only open July & August)
If they allow swim nappies / diapers (many don’t and also some have a 3+ rule)
It sounds crazy but many pools do not allow sunscreen
Many pools also don’t allow any jewellery at all. If you have a bracelet, for example, that cannot be removed – you’ll be required to tape it up
Most pools don’t allow any tattoos – some allow them if they are taped up or covered by a rashguard top or pants.
Some pools also have funny rules about speedos and swim caps too.
There are often break times where the pool asks everyone to get out of the water – for 15-30 mins – for cleaning.
( I know, Japan sure knows how to take the fun out of summer…)
6. Does the pool allow pregnant women?
I know this sounds crazy but some pools in Japan don’t allow visibly pregnant women to swim. So best to check ahead.
If you’d like to try a Japanese onsen in Tokyo but aren’t comfy with the idea of being naked, I found one onsen place in Tokyo where you can wear your swimsuit.
For my favourite things to do in Japanese Summer, see my post here.
And for my favourite kid-friendly Summer options? Here!
If you are looking for my favourite areas to stay with small children, see my post here.
Or for my favourite hotel options, see my Accommodation for Families post here.
