Japan

Tattoo artists in Okinawa

In Okinawa Prefecture, tattoo artists can be found in areas like Chatan and Nago. Half of the Okinawa tattoo artists listed on tattooers.jp specialize in realistic black and gray (a style that expresses shadows with shades of black). Additionally, there are artists who work with geometric patterns, tribal, tebori (hand-poked, where the needle is inserted by hand point by point), watercolor style, and newschool (a style characterized by exaggerated lines and vivid colors, like in comics). Here's how to find the right artist for you.

Visiting Okinawa? We'll match you with the right artist. How it works

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Recent work in Okinawa

  • Tattoo by Sadie, a tattoo artist in Okinawa
  • Tattoo by Sadie, a tattoo artist in Okinawa
  • Tattoo by Kai, a tattoo artist in Okinawa
  • Tattoo by Sadie, a tattoo artist in Okinawa
  • Tattoo by Kai, a tattoo artist in Okinawa
  • Tattoo by Sadie, a tattoo artist in Okinawa
  • Tattoo by Sadie, a tattoo artist in Okinawa
  • Tattoo by Sadie, a tattoo artist in Okinawa
  • Tattoo by Sadie, a tattoo artist in Okinawa
  • Tattoo by Sadie, a tattoo artist in Okinawa
  • Tattoo by Sadie, a tattoo artist in Okinawa
  • Tattoo by Kai, a tattoo artist in Okinawa
  • Tattoo by Sadie, a tattoo artist in Okinawa
  • Tattoo by Kai, a tattoo artist in Okinawa
  • Tattoo by Sadie, a tattoo artist in Okinawa
  • Tattoo by Sadie, a tattoo artist in Okinawa
  • Tattoo by Kai, a tattoo artist in Okinawa
  • Tattoo by Sadie, a tattoo artist in Okinawa
  • Tattoo by Kai, a tattoo artist in Okinawa
  • Tattoo by Sadie, a tattoo artist in Okinawa
  • Tattoo by Kai, a tattoo artist in Okinawa
  • Tattoo by Sadie, a tattoo artist in Okinawa
  • Tattoo by Sadie, a tattoo artist in Okinawa
  • Tattoo by Kai, a tattoo artist in Okinawa

Artists in Okinawa

Guide to tattoo studios in Okinawa

When Getting a Tattoo During Your Trip

Artists often advise against swimming in the ocean or pools for a while after a session, so it's recommended to plan your beach activities before your session and schedule your session for the latter half of your trip. It's best to complete your booking consultation before your trip. By communicating the desired body part, approximate size, and your travel itinerary, the design can be finalized by the day of your session. Large designs may not be completed in a single session, so please confirm in advance how many sessions might be required.

Choose by "Artist," Not Just Studio

Many people tend to search for tattoos by studio name first. However, even within the same studio, each artist has different specialties and line work styles. The artist is the one who determines the final result.

On tattooers.jp, each artist's work is compiled on a single page. Unlike Instagram, posts don't get lost in a feed, allowing you to look back and compare past works. When choosing an artist, we recommend considering the following points:

  • How many works in your desired style has the artist done?
  • Do the line thickness, intricacy, and color application match your preferences?
  • Is an estimated price range published?

Send a Booking Request

Found work you like? Tap "Get a tattoo like this" on the work or artist page, or tell us your trip and idea through our booking form. Share the placement, the rough size, your dates in Japan and any reference images. We match you with an artist who fits and reply within 48 hours by Instagram DM. Your design doesn't need to be final.

What to Know Before Getting a Tattoo

In September 2020, the Supreme Court ruled that tattoo sessions performed by artists do not constitute "medical acts" that are exclusively permitted for doctors under the Medical Practitioners' Act. On the other hand, some local governments prohibit irezumi for individuals under 18 years old by ordinance. Booking requests on tattooers.jp are also for individuals aged 18 and above.

For several weeks after the session, the tattooed area will be in a similar state to a wound. Aftercare methods, such as moisturizing and sun protection, may vary depending on the artist, so please follow the instructions provided by the artist who performed your session. When deciding on the placement of your tattoo, it's also wise to consider that some facilities, such as hot springs (onsen), pools, and gyms, may still deny entry to individuals with tattoos.

This guide is translated from our Japanese page.