Discover the top Japanese tattoo artists worldwide and find the perfect one for your next tattoo. Explore their unique styles and exceptional artistry.
Japanese tattoo art, also known as irezumi, is a style that has gained popularity across the globe. It is a form of body art that involves intricate designs, vibrant colors, and deep meanings. Japanese tattoos typically feature themes from Japanese mythology, such as dragons, koi fish, cherry blossoms, and geishas, and are often done in a traditional style that has been passed down for generations. If you are interested in getting a Japanese-style tattoo, finding the right artist is key. In this article, we will discuss the top Japanese tattoo artists and provide you with information that will help you find the perfect artist for your tattoo.
The Best Japanese Tattoo Artists
Horiyoshi III
Horiyoshi III, whose real name is Yoshihito Nakano, is one of the most respected and well-known Japanese tattoo artists. He is based in Yokohama, Japan, and has been tattooing for over 40 years. Horiyoshi III’s style is heavily influenced by traditional Japanese art and he is particularly known for his detailed and intricate designs. His work has been featured in numerous publications and he has won multiple awards for his tattoos.
If you are interested in getting a tattoo by Horiyoshi III, be prepared to wait. His waiting list is typically several years long, and he only accepts clients who are serious about getting a tattoo that is both meaningful and well-executed. In addition to his tattoo work, Horiyoshi III is also a skilled artist who has created a number of books and prints that showcase his unique style.
Shige
Shige, whose full name is Shigenori Iwasaki, is another top Japanese tattoo artist who is based in Yokohama, Japan. He is known for his ability to create tattoos that are both bold and dynamic, with a strong sense of movement and flow. Shige’s tattoos often feature powerful creatures like dragons and tigers, and he is skilled at creating designs that incorporate both traditional Japanese motifs and more contemporary elements.
Shige is highly sought after by clients around the world, and his waiting list can be several years long. If you are interested in getting a tattoo by Shige, it is recommended that you book well in advance and be prepared to travel to Japan to have the work done. His studio, Yellow Blaze, is known for its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, and Shige is known for his friendly and approachable demeanor.
Horitomo
Horitomo, whose real name is Kazuaki Kitamura, is a Japanese tattoo artist based in California. He is known for his unique blend of traditional Japanese tattooing and contemporary art, and his work often features a mix of bold colors, strong lines, and intricate details. Horitomo is also known for his ability to create large-scale tattoos that cover the entire body, including back pieces, sleeves, and leg tattoos.
In addition to his tattoo work, Horitomo is also a skilled artist who has created a number of books and prints that showcase his unique style. He is highly respected within the tattoo community and has won multiple awards for his work.
Horiyasu
Horiyasu is a Japanese tattoo artist who is based in Tokyo, Japan. He is known for his ability to create traditional Japanese tattoos that are both intricate and bold. His work often features dragons, tigers, and other powerful creatures, and he is skilled at creating designs that incorporate both traditional Japanese motifs and more contemporary elements.
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.
- Japanese tattoo art, also known as irezumi, is a style that has gained popularity across the globe. It is a form of body art that involves intricate designs, vibrant colors, and deep meanings.
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Only Up Game: Soaring to New Heights in the World of Gaming - June 30, 2023
- Chicago: The Vibrant Metropolis of the Midwest - June 22, 2023
- Oceangate: Exploring the Depths with the Titan Expedition - June 22, 2023