Where to get a Tattoo in Japan
- Published on : 15/05/2026
- by : Phoebe
- Youtube
Where to get a tattoo?
@Picryl, public domain
What about an original souvenir? Why not get a tattoo in Japan! Japan has a long history of tattooing. And although tattooing isn't always allowed in onsen (hot springs), Japan is home to many tattoo parlors, with a wide variety of styles. Discover some of the studios open to foreigners with Japan Experience.
Where to get a tattoo in Tokyo?
1. Fuga Tattoo Shop Shinjuku
Located in Shinjuku, this studio is run by a multilingual team (English, Japanese, and Portuguese) and accepts walk-ins, which is relatively rare in Japan. There's something for every style: fine line, anime, blackwork, realism or traditional Japanese tattooing. The studio also has private rooms for consultations and tattoo sessions. Impeccable in terms of hygiene, Fuga Tattoo Shop Shinjuku also participates in Japanese Tattoo Association certifications.
FURTHER INFORMATION:
Address: Hakuga Building 501, 5-11-13 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0022
Opening hours: daily, 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm
2. Horizaru Tattoo
Horizaru is more oriented towards traditional Japanese tattooing (irezumi). The salon is located near Tabata station, in a much quieter neighborhood than Shinjuku. It's an excellent address for larger pieces such as full sleeves, back, dragon or koi tattoos. On the downside, you'll need to book several months in advance, and the staff don't necessarily speak good English.
FURTHER INFORMATION:
Address: 1-19-8 Tabata, Kita-ku, Tokyo 114-0014
Opening hours: by appointment only, times vary according to session
Irezumi Tattoo
@Jeff Laitila on Flickr, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
3. Artemis Tattoo Shop
Thanks to its French owner, Artemis Tattoo Shop is particularly appreciated by the French-speaking community in Tokyo. The atmosphere is warm and reassuring, especially for European travelers discovering the world of tattooing in Japan. We especially recommend this studio for personalized projects, fine or medium-sized pieces. Exchanges take place in both French and English.
FURTHER INFORMATION:
Address: Reverse 201, 1-36-5 Numabukuro, Nakano-ku, Tokyo 165-0025
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m
Passionate about art? Discover our cultural activities throughout Japan
Where to get a tattoo in Osaka?
4. Invasion Club
Located near Namba, Invasion Club is a well-known studio in Osaka's alternative scene. And for good reason: it mixes tattooing, art and streetwear culture!
The underground atmosphere is very different from traditional Japanese salons. The studio also welcomes international guest artists. Although English is sometimes used on site, it depends on the artists present. However, Invasion Club remains an excellent address for travelers looking for modern style, inspired by contemporary Japanese culture.
FURTHER INFORMATION:
Address: 2 Chome-3-9 Shimodera, Naniwa Ward, Osaka 556-0001
Opening hours: daily from 12:00 to 19:00, closed on Thursdays
Namba district (Osaka)
@unsplash
5. Beni tattooer
Beni Tattooer is known for his detailed black & grey tattoos and modern compositions. His style blends contemporary realism, dark art influences and Japanese aesthetics. As with many local artists, booking times can be long. Contact is usually via Instagram or an online form.
To facilitate exchanges, we recommend that you send him:
- Project size
- Location
- A few visual references
- Availability
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Address: 2 Chome-3-9 Shimodera, Naniwa Ward, Osaka 556-0001
Hours: by appointment; times vary according to session
What you need to know before getting a tattoo in Japan
Before you embark on a tattoo project in Japan, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Check out the studios or artists you like online and contact them to understand their booking process. Be careful, as many artists have very long waiting lists.
- Don't assume that all artists speak English.
- Pay attention to your itinerary too: if you're planning to do some hiking, go to an onsen or to the beach, avoid getting a tattoo just beforehand.
- If you plan to walk for hours in the sun, make sure your tattoo is well protected.
- Be particularly careful about the inks used in Japan, which may differ from those in your own country. If you have allergies, find out beforehand.
- Also, make sure that a good studio offers you brand-new, sealed equipment and asks you to sign the necessary documents before the session.
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Tattooing in Japan
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