The Tokyo Bay Tattoo Festival 2025 brought together some of the most talented tattoo artists in Japan and around the world. This year, Japan Tattoo participated for the second time — another important step for our growing studio in Shinjuku. This article covers our experience at the festival, highlights from the event, and a reflection on Japanese “humility” as part of our studio’s philosophy — especially after a meaningful moment for our team and our artist Horiken. What is the Tokyo Bay Tattoo Festival? One of Japan’s largest tattoo events, the festival showcases: • Leading artists from Japan, Europe, the US, and Asia • Live tattooing, painting • Competitions across […]
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Category: Tattoo
Ukiyo-e and Tattoos: How Japanese Woodbl...
Why Ukiyo-e Matters for Tattoo Lovers Ukiyo-e—Japan’s world-renowned woodblock print tradition—has influenced tattoo art for over 200 years. Many modern tattoo motifs, from dragons to waves to warrior scenes, were first popularized in Edo-period prints. While clients often reference Kuniyoshi specifically, requests inspired by Hokusai, Hiroshige, Yoshitoshi, and other masters are also extremely common. Understanding ukiyo-e is one of the best ways to appreciate the meaning and structure of Japanese tattoo designs today. Why Ukiyo-e × Tattoos Fit So Naturally Edo-period ukiyo-e and Japanese tattoo culture grew together: ■ Shared Visual Language • Strong outlines • Flowing movement • Narrative composition • Mythology and folklore • Nature motifs (waves, […]
Japan’s Autumn: Best Time for a Tattoo?
Autumn in Japan, More Than Just Scenery When people think of Japan in autumn, vivid images of red maple leaves and golden ginkgo trees often come to mind. Travelers flock to Kyoto’s temples, Tokyo’s parks, and Hokkaido’s mountains to experience this breathtaking season. But autumn in Japan offers more than scenery — it also provides the ideal conditions for getting a tattoo. From stable weather to quicker healing, autumn is often considered the best season for tattoos. If you are planning your trip and considering body art as part of your Japan adventure, here’s why autumn might be your perfect window. Why Autumn Is Tattoo-Friendly Tattoos are living art, […]
Tattoos as a Unique Souvenir from Japan ...
Introduction: More Than Just a Souvenir Every traveler to Japan takes something home — photos, keychains, snacks, or traditional crafts. These are wonderful reminders, but they often fade, break, or get lost over time. What if your souvenir could stay with you forever, carrying not only the memory of where you’ve been but also the feeling of what you experienced? For many international travelers, a tattoo has become the ultimate souvenir. Unlike a postcard or a T-shirt, a tattoo is a living memory on your skin — a unique story that no one else can replicate. In Japan, where tattoo artistry is deeply rooted in history and evolving into a […]
Popular Tattoo Styles & Meanings in Japa
Japan continues to be a dream destination for travelers — not only for its temples, food, and pop culture, but also as a place to get a meaningful tattoo. If you’re visiting Japan in 2025, here’s a guide to the most popular tattoo styles among visitors, and the meanings behind traditional Japanese designs like koi, cherry blossoms, and Hannya masks. This will help you choose a tattoo that’s not just beautiful, but also deeply connected to Japanese culture. 🌸 Popular Tattoo Styles Among Visitors to Japan in 2025 Based on recent trends, here are the designs international travelers most often request in Tokyo: • Fine-Line & Minimalist Tattoos Small, […]
Rainy Day in Tokyo? Here’s Why Getting a
🌧️ Stuck in Tokyo on a Rainy Day? Don’t let the weather wash away your travel plans. When shrines, parks, and markets lose their charm under grey skies, it’s time to look indoors. Getting a tattoo in Tokyo isn’t just an indoor activity — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Here’s why your rainy day might be the perfect time to get inked. 1. Why Tattoos Make Sense on a Rainy Day • Completely weatherproof – Rain doesn’t affect your appointment or experience • Souvenir with meaning – Tattoos last longer than any T-shirt or keychain • Peaceful and personal – Step out of the noise, into a private, focused environment […]
Surviving the Tokyo Summer : Cool Things...
Visiting Tokyo in August? It’s hot, humid, and intense — but also filled with unique local experiences, exciting events, and yes… tattoos. Here’s your ultimate guide to staying cool while making the most of your summer in Japan. Is Tokyo Too Hot in August? Yes — Tokyo in August is hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching 35°C (95°F). But don’t worry — with the right plans, you can beat the heat and discover a side of Tokyo many travelers miss. Cool Things to Do in Tokyo This August 1. Explore Indoor Museums & Galleries Escape the sun with air-conditioned culture: • TeamLab Planets Tokyo (immersive digital art) • Ōta […]
Can I Get a Tattoo Without Speaking Japa...
Your Foreigner-Friendly Guide to Getting Inked in Japan Traveling in Japan is a once-in-a-lifetime experience — and getting a tattoo while you’re here can make that memory permanent. But if you don’t speak Japanese, one big question might stop you: “Can I get a tattoo in Japan without knowing Japanese?” The short answer: Absolutely, yes — if you choose the right studio. In this guide, we’ll show you how to navigate the Japanese tattoo scene as a non-Japanese speaker, what to expect during your visit, and how to find a truly foreigner-friendly studio. 🔍 1. Yes, English-Friendly Tattoo Studios Exist in Japan Not every tattoo shop in Japan […]
Best Tattoo Studios in Japan – What Make
Planning to Get a Tattoo While Traveling in Japan? You’re not alone. Tattoo tourism is on the rise in Japan, and for good reason — top-tier craftsmanship, cultural depth, and unforgettable souvenirs. But with so many studios out there, how do you find the right one? Let’s break down what makes a tattoo studio truly great — and introduce one that checks every box. ✅ 1. English-Friendly Communication Getting a tattoo is a personal experience — and communication is key. The best studios for travelers offer: • English-speaking artists or front desk staff • Bilingual consultations and aftercare instructions • Friendly, patient support for first-timers 💡 Tip: Check […]
Is Tattoo Still Taboo in Japan? Here’s W
Tattoos have become a global form of self-expression — but in Japan, many travelers still ask: “Are tattoos still taboo in Japan?” The short answer? Yes, but it’s changing. In this article, we’ll explain the cultural history behind Japan’s tattoo taboo, how attitudes are shifting in 2025, and what you need to know if you plan to get or show tattoos during your trip. 1. Why Are Tattoos Still Taboo in Japan? Tattoos have long been associated with the yakuza (organized crime groups) in Japan. For decades, this connection made tattoos a symbol of rebellion or criminal behavior, especially among older generations. As a result, many public places — […]