Can I go to Japan with tattoos?

While tattoos are not illegal, they can prevent people from getting the full Japanese experience. When using public transportation in Japan, such as trains, tourists with visible tattoos will want to keep in mind that their ink may be offensive to some of the locals.

Are you allowed to have tattoos in Japan?

Actually, tattoos are fine in Japan. They're not illegal in any way. You may even see some people walking around with fashion tattoos, especially in Tokyo. Although some people in Japan have tattoos, they are usually hidden underneath clothing.

Do I need to cover my tattoos when visiting Japan?

Rules are very important in Japan, and as there is a no tattoo rule in nearly all pools, onsens and gyms, a foreigner walking up to the desk with tattoos showing is bound to cause concern. Just cover up and keep those tattoos covered and that is acceptable. If you can't cover up, don't go to those environments.

Where can I go in Japan if I have a tattoo?

Does Japan hire people with tattoos?

When getting a job in a company, does a tattoo become a negative factor? Still, many Japanese companies reject employees who have tattoos. For Japanese companies, if an employee of the company gets a tattoo, it seems that he is an anti-social person or is associated with other anti-social people.

Having Tattoos in Japan (2021) - What you should know

Can Americans get tattoos in Japan?

Some places in Japan happily welcome tattooed tourists. For those with obvious and huge tattoos that are impossible to cover or those who are not fond of hiding their body art, do not worry because there are some sites that provide comprehensive lists of tattoo-friendly onsen and sento.

Is tattoo ban lifted in Japan?

Only after the arrival of the American soldiers in Japan after World War II was the Japanese government forced to lift the tattoo prohibition. Despite the „legalization “ of tattoos, the negative association tied to tattoos (that have been around for hundreds of years) remained among the people.

How does Japan view tattoos?

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.

Can foreigners get tattoos in Japan?

Yes… but it's complicated. Japan has a long history of negative attitudes towards tattoos, and at times they were even illegal. Even today, some places like onsen or beaches might have anti-tattoo policies, and if you work here your company may make you cover your tattoo up because it's considered unprofessional.

How do you cover a tattoo in Japan?

Besides booking yourself a private onsen (which can be costly), you can purchase body stickers and skin-coloured patches to conceal your body art. However, most of these coverings are on the smaller side.

Can you go to baths in Japan with tattoos?

Although the number of tattoo-friendly onsen and sento is growing, many still do not allow tattooed guests. Etiquette is important to Japanese bathing culture and crucial for a relaxing onsen experience. Inked visitors should avoid these facilities and instead find one of the many that do allow tattoos.

Are tattoos accepted in Korea?

South Korean law permits only licensed medical practitioners, as opposed to tattoo artists without medical degrees, to open tattoo parlors, although it is not illegal to have a tattoo. Only the army prohibits tattoos. People can have tattoos after serving in the military.

Are piercings allowed in Japan?

Ear piercings are against Japanese school dress code, along with any other forms of jewelry and even painted nails. In fact, piercings of any kind are very uncommon in Japan, even for older people. Usually the people who get ear piercings in Japan are rule-breakers, or people who are trying to look tough.

Why is Japan strict on tattoos?

Since the 1990s, as tattooing in Japan is readily associated with the national mafia, some establishments and signs prohibit access to anyone with a tattoo to screen potential criminals. Unfortunately, these decisions also impact both Japanese people and foreigners who have tattoos without any connection to the yakuza.

Why are tattoos not socially acceptable in Japan?

In Japan tattoos have long been stigmatized for their association with organized crime gangs, the Yakuza, who pledge their allegiance with full-body markings. Consequently, anyone with ink – regardless of their profession – cannot usually use public swimming pools, hot springs, beaches and even some gyms.

Which countries prohibit tattoos?

How much is a small tattoo in Japan?

How much does a tattoo cost in Japan? Tattoo sizes are generally described as “coin” (a 500 yen coin, about the size of an American quarter), “cigarette pack,” “post card” and “B5 paper size” (approx. 2 postcards). Coin-size tattoos generally start at about 10,000 to 15,000 yen.

Can I get a Yakuza tattoo in Japan?

Nowadays, Yakuza run criminal businesses all around Japan. Gang members live according to their own ethical code full of dignity and justice. Even though it is legally to get a tattoo in Japan, there is a stigma against it.

Why are tattoos shunned in Japan?

Body ink has long been stigmatised in Japan due to its links with the criminal underworld. In recent years tattoos have been associated with country's largest organised crime syndicate, the Yakuza, but their murky history dates much further back.

What is appropriate to wear in Japan?

Dressing modestly is important to maintain cultural customs and norms. Avoid things like tank tops, shorts, and mini-skirts. Opting for more conservative clothing is always a safe bet even if you don't plan to visit temples or shrines. It's also generally frowned upon for women to show cleavage.

What do tattoos symbolize in Japan?

Traditionally, Japanese tattoos began as a means of conveying societal status as well as serving as spiritual symbols that were often used as a sort of charm for protection as well as symbolizing devotion, not unlike modern religious tattoos.

What is tattoo punishment in Japan?

During the Edo period, irezumi kei ("tattoo punishment") was a criminal penalty. The location of the tattoo was determined by the crime; thieves were tattooed on the arm, murderers on the head. The shape of the tattoo was based on where the crime occurred.

Why are tattoos illegal in Korea?

A Centuries-Old Stigma

In South Korea, tattoos, also called munshin, have long had negative associations. During the Koryo dynasty, which ruled from 918 to 1392 A.D., people were forcibly given tattoos on their faces or arms listing the crimes they had committed or marking them as slaves.

What is the drinking age in Japan?

In Japan, the legal adult age is 20. Japanese law prohibits individuals under the age of 20 to drink alcohol or smoke. Regardless of age, you must not force anyone to drink or smoke as it may cause serious health and social consequences.