[trunker]

you probably wont get in to an onsen, but you might be able to find a smallish one and if your japanese is up to par, or you know someone who can speak, they might let you in say during quiet times.

it wont hurt to ask, cos the tattoo thing was mainly to keep the yakuza out and being a foreigner you might get lucky if you really want to go to one.

cant say i've ever heard anyone with tattoos try let alone get in though.