Reader BM wants to know if morphine can be brought into Japan legally, and if having a tattoo would prevent her from visiting bathing facilities.

She writes: "Due to certain health issues that cause chronic pain, I've been on a prescription of morphine for many years. I read somewhere that because morphine is a controlled substance, I would not be able to bring it with me if I ever visited Japan. Is this true?

"Also, I read that onsen (hot springs or spas) often discriminate against people with tattoos (for reasons I can definitely understand). I have a tattoo of a moon and stars on my left shoulder. I've wondered if it would prevent me from visiting onsen."