Tattoos have always held a special place in the realm of art and culture, serving as symbols of identity, spirituality and artistic expression across various civilizations. In Japan, the history of tattooing is a vibrant tapestry that weaves together ancient traditions, cultural practices and social perceptions. From its early roots as a spiritual ritual to its modern revival as a form of self-expression, the journey of tattooing in Japan is a fascinating story that reflects the evolution of society and individuality.
The origins of tattooing in Japan date back to the prehistoric Jomon period, which spanned from around 10,000 BC to around 300 AD. Archaeological excavations have uncovered clay figurines bearing intricate tattoo patterns, suggesting that tattooing served spiritual and ritual purposes. These early tattoos were believed to symbolize protection, status and identity within the community, laying the foundation for tattooing’s cultural importance in Japan.
The Kofun period (300-600 AD) was a time when the role of tattoos in Japan changed dramatically, as they began to take on religious connotations. In shamanic rituals, tattoos symbolized protection from evil spirits. Additionally, the indigenous Ainu people of Hokkaido incorporated tattoos into their cultural practices as a way to connect with nature and ancestral spirits.
The next big change began during the Edo period (1603-1868). The government imposed strict regulations banning tattoos and enforced them as a form of punishment (tattoo punishment) on criminals, branding them with a permanent mark that indicated their social status. This practice linked tattoos with crime and formed a negative perception of tattoos in Japanese society for centuries to come. Tattoos were based on the crime committed, and the location of the tattoo indicated the type of crime. For example, murderers had tattoos on their heads and thieves had tattoos on their arms. Tattoos were also based on a three-strike system, with each strike signifying a Chinese symbol (dai) followed by death.
Despite the social stigma surrounding tattoos, the Edo period also saw the emergence of a distinctive form of tattooing called irezumi (translating as “putting ink”). Inspired by ukiyo-e woodblock prints, tattoo artists known as horishi developed intricate designs incorporating motifs such as dragons and tigers, for example. This distinctive style is characterized by bold, colorful designs that cover large areas of the body.
However, the Meiji Restoration of 1868 brought about major social changes in Japan, and tattooing, which was associated with crime and rebellion, was banned in 1872. Despite this ban, tattooing thrived underground, with gangsters and outcasts sporting elaborate tattoos as symbols of loyalty, strength and rebellion against societal norms.
Tattooing has experienced a resurgence in Japan in recent years, driven by a new generation of artists and enthusiasts seeking to revive and reinterpret Japan’s rich tattoo traditions. Traditional motifs such as carp, dragons, cherry blossoms and peonies continue to inspire contemporary tattoo designs, fusing ancient symbolism with modern aesthetics.
Today, Japanese tattoo artists are celebrated around the world for their exceptional skill and creativity, attracting clients from all over the world who seek to adorn their bodies with exquisite works of art. From traditional hand-bori tattooing to modern machine-based techniques, Japanese tattoo art continues to evolve, captivating audiences around the world and connecting the past with the present while celebrating culture, craftsmanship and self-expression.
Take to the Streets
Get in line for TAKASHii in Japan. Takashii is a street interviewer originally from Nagoya, but has been living in Tokyo for the last 6 years. He started street interviewing because he simply didn’t see himself as a typical 9 to 5 worker. He felt the need to create media content and thought what better way to do it than to hit the streets of Japan and interview people about their thoughts and ideas about life in Japan.
Takashii truly enjoys his job, lamenting that it is fun to be unpredictable. His goal is to amplify the “real” feelings and observations of life in Japan. He wants people to truly understand what life in Japan is like, both the good and the bad. Takashii sometimes finds interviews difficult because Japanese people tend to be very introverted and not particularly fond of talking about their thoughts and feelings on video. Still, Takashii makes his interviewees feel at ease, never interrupts them, and allows them to speak their minds freely. He does not criticize them, even if their thoughts or ideas go against his own beliefs.
Takashi has interviewed celebrities, business people, influencers, and you guessed it, tattoo artists and people with heavy tattoos. One day in Harajuku, Takashi came across Yuki Horidai. Yuki is one of Japan’s most popular tattoo artists and a content creator on various social media platforms.
Takashii gave Yuki an impromptu street interview that went viral on social media. They talked about how Yuki wears long sleeves and long pants in public even when it’s hot, his first tattoo, his inspirations, and his views on the taboo nature of tattoos in Japan. Yuki says he doesn’t feel society needs to change its view on tattoos because people who decide to get one already know what it brings to them.
Yuki is one of the top talents in the tattoo industry, alongside fellow tattoo artists Taku Oshima and Nissako. Unlike Yuki’s traditional tattoo style, Oshima specializes in decorative blackwork and often does full body tattoos. Having travelled a lot in his youth, he took up tattooing after realising it was a career that would allow him to travel the world whilst still being successful. “My goal is simple: to create beauty that can be seen from 10 metres away,” says Oshima.
While staying within the realm of blackwork, Nisako has taken it in a different direction. His work focuses primarily on large, cohesive pieces that break the limitations of traditional symmetry. At times, we see his work mimicking almost geometric canvases.
Japanese tattoos continue to fascinate and inspire people around the world, transcending cultural boundaries and resonating with those who appreciate their beauty, symbolism and craftsmanship. Attitudes towards tattoos are gradually evolving, with body art becoming more accepted as a form of self-expression and personal style. While public spaces such as hot springs and gyms still maintain strict anti-tattoo policies due to their historical association with organized crime, tattoos are increasingly being recognized as legitimate artistic expression rather than a sign of criminality.
Japanese tattooing continues to evolve and adapt to new cultural landscapes, navigating the complexities of tradition, modernity and societal norms. Contemporary artists push the boundaries, experiment with innovative designs and incorporate elements of diverse artistic traditions to create unique and fascinating tattoo art.
Whether rooted in centuries-old traditions or exploring new frontiers of creativity, Japanese tattooing remains a vibrant and dynamic artistic expression that celebrates the intersection of history, culture and individuality. By embracing a spirit of innovation while respecting the traditions of tattooing, Japanese tattoo artists are shaping the future of a timeless art that continues to inspire and intrigue people around the world.
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