The Best Japanese Tattoo Artists: Expert Artistry and Unique Styles

Horiyasu’s waiting list can be several months long, and he is highly sought after by clients from around the world. His studio, Three TStudio, is known for its clean and welcoming atmosphere, and Horiyasu is known for his attention to detail and his ability to create tattoos that are both beautiful and meaningful.

Gakkin

Gakkin is a Japanese tattoo artist based in Amsterdam, Netherlands. He is known for his unique style, which blends traditional Japanese tattooing with more contemporary elements. His tattoos often feature bold lines, geometric shapes, and vibrant colors, and he is skilled at creating designs that are both intricate and visually striking.

Gakkin’s waiting list can be several months long, and he is highly sought after by clients from around the world. His studio, Gakkin Tattoo, is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, and Gakkin himself is known for his passion for tattooing and his ability to create tattoos that are truly one-of-a-kind.

Choshu Horikazu

Choshu Horikazu is a Japanese tattoo artist based in Tokyo, Japan. He is known for his ability to create tattoos that are both traditional and modern, with a focus on bold lines and vivid colors. His tattoos often feature Japanese motifs like dragons, koi fish, and cherry blossoms, and he is skilled at creating designs that are both meaningful and visually stunning.

Choshu Horikazu’s waiting list can be several months long, and he is highly respected within the tattoo community for his skill and dedication to his craft. His studio, Horikazuwaka, is known for its welcoming and relaxed atmosphere, and Choshu Horikazu himself is known for his friendly and approachable demeanor.

Hori Benny

Hori Benny is a Japanese tattoo artist based in New York City, United States. He is known for his ability to create tattoos that are both traditional and modern, with a focus on bold lines and vibrant colors. His tattoos often feature Japanese motifs like dragons and tigers, and he is skilled at creating designs that are both beautiful and meaningful.

Hori Benny’s waiting list can be several months long, and he is highly sought after by clients from around the world. His studio, Three Kings Tattoo, is known for its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, and Hori Benny himself is known for his passion for tattooing and his ability to create tattoos that are truly works of art.

Shigeo

Shigeo is a Japanese tattoo artist based in Osaka, Japan. He is known for his ability to create tattoos that are both traditional and modern, with a focus on intricate details and bold lines. His tattoos often feature Japanese motifs like dragons, samurai warriors, and cherry blossoms, and he is skilled at creating designs that are both beautiful and meaningful.

Shigeo’s waiting list can be several months long, and he is highly respected within the tattoo community for his skill and dedication to his craft. His studio, Yellow Blaze, is known for its welcoming and relaxed atmosphere, and Shigeo himself is known for his friendly and approachable demeanor.

Finding the Right Japanese Tattoo Artist for You

If you are interested in getting a Japanese-style tattoo, it is important to do your research and find the right artist for you. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect artist:

1. Look for artists with a strong portfolio of Japanese-style tattoos. Take some time to look at the artist’s previous work and make sure that their style and aesthetic align with your own.
2. Check out the artist’s waiting list. Many of the top Japanese tattoo artists have waiting lists that can be several months or even years long, so it is important to plan ahead and book well in advance.
3. Read reviews and ask for recommendations. Look for reviews of the artist’s work online and ask friends or acquaintances who have gotten Japanese-style tattoos for recommendations.
4. Contact the artist directly. Once you have narrowed down your list of potential artists, reach out to them directly to ask about their availability, pricing, and design process. This can also be a good opportunity to get a sense of their personality and whether they will be a good fit for you.
5. Trust your instincts. Ultimately, it is important to trust your instincts when choosing a tattoo artist. Make sure that you feel comfortable with the artist and that you are confident in their ability to create the design that you want.
6. Consider the location of the artist’s studio. If you are traveling to get your tattoo done, make sure that the studio is in a convenient location and that you feel comfortable with the area.

The History of Japanese Tattoo Artists

The history of Japanese tattoo artists, also known as “Horishi,” dates back to the Edo period (1603-1867) in Japan. During this time, tattoos were associated with criminal activities, and people who had tattoos were often shunned by society. Despite this stigma, there were still those who continued to get tattoos, particularly members of the criminal underworld, who used tattoos to show their allegiance to their gang or to mark their criminal achievements.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Japanese tattoos began to gain popularity among artists and intellectuals, who saw them as a symbol of rebellion against mainstream society. This led to a resurgence in the art of tattooing in Japan, and many talented tattoo artists began to emerge.

Today, Japanese tattoo artists are known for their exceptional artistry and unique styles, which often incorporate traditional Japanese imagery and symbolism. Some of the most famous Japanese tattoo artists include Horiyoshi III, Horitomo, and Shige. These artists have played a crucial role in shaping the modern Japanese tattooing scene, and their influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary tattoo artists around the world.

Japanese-style tattoos are known for their beauty, complexity, and symbolism. Whether you are looking to get a small, simple tattoo or a larger, more intricate design, there are many talented Japanese tattoo artists who can help bring your vision to life.

When choosing a tattoo artist, it is important to do your research, look at their portfolio, and consider factors like their waiting list and location. By taking the time to find the right artist, you can ensure that you get a tattoo that you will love and cherish for years to come.

As bonus, read this article for a look at the best Japanese tattoo ideas.