Having tattoos in Japan means you might face restrictions in certain places like public baths (onsen), pools, and gyms, where you'll likely be denied entry or need to cover up due to historical links with the yakuza (Japanese mafia) and lingering stigma, though attitudes are changing, especially for tourists who often cover up with rash guards or clothing. While major tourist spots and shops are generally fine, traditional places or older generations might react negatively, so packing covering clothing is key for a smooth visit.
Yes, Japan allows foreigners with tattoos to visit the country. However, people with visible tattoos may be barred from certain places like onsens (hot springs), gyms, swimming pools, and some traditional ryokans (inns), as tattoos are often associated with the Yakuza.
You will not get into much trouble in your daily life with tattoos in Japan, and displaying your tattoos in public places such as restaurants, bars, parks, and beaches is generally not a problem.
Tattoos are not illegal in Japan, the only places which may refuse access or service is a gym or onsen, and some a permit based on size of and number of tattoos, or completely allow. Largely it is not a problem. The attiude of tattoos of Japan is mixed in public.
No national law in Japan prohibits tattoos. Employers may set appearance rules and refuse employment based on them, provided they comply with general labor law and non-discrimination norms in practice. Some local governments and institutions may have specific policies for public servants.
Tattoo seals are opaque, durable stickers that are designed to conceal your tattoos while you're in an onsen. They are intended to match your skin tone, although since they are primarily marketed to Japanese consumers the color range tends to be limited to light and medium shades.
Public Perception of Tattoos in Japan Today
The shifting perceptions of tattoos is also driven by the rising influence of tattooed celebrities and influences like Mackenyu and retired singer Namie Amuro, who defy traditional norms.
Since the 1990s, many establishments, like onsen 温泉 (Japanese hot springs), spas, and gyms, have restricted access to tattooed individuals due to security concerns. Unfortunately, this affects both locals and foreign visitors with tattoos — many of whom have no connection to the yakuza.
No, $50 is a bit low for a $500 tattoo; it's only 10%, while the standard tip for good work is 15-20% ($75-$100), with $100 being a strong 20% tip for a $500 piece, showing great appreciation for the artist's time and skill. While tipping is discretionary, artists consider $75-$100 the sweet spot for excellent service, so $50 is a minimal gesture, though any amount helps.
Japanese laws against tattoos were enforced in 1936 after the war between Japan and China broke out, banning tattoos entirely. The Japanese government thought people with tattoos were problematic. It wasn't until 1946 that tattooing became legal again.
You will be absolutely fine. Plenty of Japanese people have tattoos. Worst-case scenario will be an onsen that doesn't allow tattoos (some do allow them or let you cover them up), but you're not going to onsens anyways. Hotels, public beaches, and other establishments won't turn you away.
In Japan, tattoos often carry a heavy stigma, especially in public spaces like gyms, due to cultural associations with the Yakuza, or Japanese organized crime. This has led to a unique situation where many establishments, particularly gyms, require individuals with tattoos to cover them up while they work out.
Regarding Attire for Entering the Parks
Wearing items that cover the face entirely or significantly (but excluding those required for medical purposes). Wearing long items that come in contact with the ground. Having tattoos with words or designs considered inappropriate.
It is recommended to contact the onsen in advance. You should explain that you have tattoos, describe how extensive they are, and ask if it is still possible to use their facilities. Some establishments may decline, but others will accept you without further comment.
Covering tattoos with makeup, waterproof stickers, bandages, or clothing is a common practice to respect local customs and enjoy the experience. Some onsen facilities may allow guests with tattoos if they are covered, while others provide options like private rental baths for those with tattoos to relax in privacy.
Are Tattoos Illegal in Japan? While some view tattoos as an art form, the Japanese government, on the other hand, does not. Although they may not be illegal, tattoos are often associated with the Yakuza, a Japanese gang that covers their entire body with tattoos.
A $1000 tattoo can range from a large, detailed piece (around 6-10 inches or palm-sized with complex shading) to a significant portion of a larger project, like a half-sleeve or a sizable back/chest piece, often requiring multiple sessions, depending heavily on artist skill, complexity, color, and location, as rates vary greatly.
Many people agree that it is customary to tip tattoo artists 15-20% of the total cost of the tattoo. For a $4,000 tattoo, this would amount to a tip ranging from $600 to $800, significantly higher than the $200 tip given by the client.
Again, 20 percent is the typical amount, though tipping percentages often range from 15 to 25 percent based on tattoo difficulty, size, time, artist expertise, and overall experience.
Plenty of Japanese have tats and it's only a problem with onsen that don't allow it. Even then, some will be ok if you cover them up. Unless you personally feel uncomfortable showing your tattoos there's no reason to conceal them in public.
As a sign of respect, it is much appreciated to cover tattoos at temples, shrines or any other sacred places. However, it is rare to find signs that ban tattoos at these places so this is purely up to the person to do so.
Gen Z is regretting tattoos due to impulsive decisions driven by social media trends (like fine-line or patchwork styles), getting inked during emotional highs or lows, a lack of personal meaning, and changing aesthetics (e.g., moving from WFH casual to needing to cover up for office jobs). The visibility of this regret on platforms like TikTok, combined with evolving personal identities and the desire to fit new trends, highlights a growing disillusionment with tattoos that once felt significant but now feel dated or embarrassing.
A three-line tattoo symbolizes unity, balance, past-present-future, or personal journeys, often linked to Thai Sak Yant tradition for protection, strength, and luck, or the movie "The Beach" for shared experiences, representing connection and life's ongoing path. Its meaning depends on culture and placement, ranging from spiritual shields (first line: evil warding; second: courage; third: luck) in Thai designs to minimalist expressions of harmony.
The Yakuza have used tattoos so frequently that the two have become synonymous and tattoos are a part of the Yakuza culture and identity. The Yakuza began in the 17th century when people caught for stealing and gambling were sent to prison, where they were marked with ink to identify them.