Japanese Tattoos In London

Everything you need to know about getting a Japanese style tattoo.

Why we love Japanese style tattoos

Steeped in tradition, these designs are full of flow, vibrancy and meaning. Stories can be mapped out through delicate imagery while looking timeless. Whether you want something bold and colourful or monochrome and delicate, there is an irezumi design that fits your life.

The perfect mix of background and strong subject, each design complements the other and produces a piece of art that is custom fit and enhances your body.

What is a Japanese style tattoo?

  • Japanese tattoo masters have developed a unique style of tattooing over centuries. With constant refinements over hundreds of years, a style has been created that fits the body like no other in tattooing.

  • The style combines bright colour and strong flowing backgrounds

  • the shape of the body is fully complemented and enhanced through many beautiful and meaningful designs and motifs.

What’s important to look for in a Japanese tattoo?

  • With such a structured style come many rules which make a Japanese style tattoo “work”, ignoring or misunderstanding these rules lead to tattoos not reaching their full potential.

  • It is very important to find an artist who understands what works within a design and why. Japanese style tattoos are some of the most common tattoos to see designed badly and incorrectly.

What motifs are featured in Japanese tattoos?

  • Japanese tattoos have a wide range of motifs with some of the most popular being dragons, koi, phoenixes, peonies and cherry blossom.

  • Backgrounds of waves, wind bars, fire and clouds are often seen in large scale Japanese tattoos.

  • Each Japanese motif represent different concepts, such as family, long life, relationships and love. If you talk to one of our artists about your meaning for getting tattooed they can suggest designs to match.

Do Japanese style tattoos have to be done on a large scale?

  • Although Japanese tattoos work incredibly well on a large scale, motifs can be adapted to be smaller tattoos e.g. cherry blossom, flowers, masks or small animals.

  • These don’t need to incorporate large backgrounds or take up large amounts of skin and can still hold plenty of meaning

How long does a Japanese style tattoo take?

  • The time it takes to do a tattoo varies depending on the size, placement and subject matter.

  • If you would like to get an estimate for how long a tattoo will take contact us with your idea and we’ll get back to you!

How do I know if a Japanese tattoo is for me?

If you’re looking for a tattoo that has deep meaning and is designed to compliment your body then look no further than a Japanese style tattoo.

If you’d like to get in touch and discuss a Japanese style tattoo big or small send us a message!