Tokyo’s Top Tattoo Artists
Despite the apparent negative correlation between tattoos and organized crime in Japan, I made the executive decision to go under the needle this winter. I’m starting to put together a side piece stitched together from artists all over the world, and want to begin here in Japan before I move away to Thailand this fall. I did extensive research into the history of tattooing here in Japan, and contacted many different tattoo artists before I finally decided on my personal favorite to tat’ me up! I wanted to share my findings in case anyone else is looking to get work done here in Tokyo. There are so many artists to choose from, it can be quite overwhelming to figure out where to start.
Three Tides Tattoo
They have tons of artists to choose from, and 2 locations- one in Tokyo and one in Osaka. Probably one of the coolest things about this studio is they have American tattoo artists that work back and forth between the West Coast and Tokyo (Adriann Lee). The only reason I didn’t go with this studio is because I was really interested in getting artwork done by someone that wasn’t accessible in the states.
Horizaru
This is the artist I actually decided on, finally. His studio is just as professional as he is. When you first enter the building, it smells sweetly of incense, and is filled with vintage style furniture to relax on while he sketches out the artwork you are commissioning him for. Horizaru is the only one that works out of the studio in Tabata. I highly recommend his work.
Muscat Tattoo
I really enjoyed Haruka’s portfolio. Haruka has many different styles, including watercolor and ‘chic’ type tattoos on the gallery.
Ryugendo Tattoo
If you are feeling especially brave and want an authentic tattoo, you can still get a piece of hand-made art from Ryu-kun. I’m going to go ahead and admit that the idea of a more painful tattoo already turned me off to this studio. I was scared….go ahead, judge me. Ryugendo is not cheap, but up-front about the length of time required to get a truly unique piece of art. Some of his tattoos require over 30 hours of work!
Spin Tattoo
Some of the most beautiful color-only tattoos in Tokyo are at this studio. Check out Kei-kun’s portfolio to see his lion tattoos and the sweet sleeves he has designed.
A look at my finished product:
 Have you gotten any work done in Japan? What are you experiences? Comment below and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to follow my blog!
