Japanese Tattoos

Thinking of getting a Japanese-style tattoo? Want to avoid a permanent mistake? Japanese Tattoos is an insider's look at the world of Japanese irezumi (tattoos).

Japanese Tattoos explains the imagery featured in Japanese tattoos so that readers can avoid getting ink they don't understand or, worse, that they'll regret. This photo-heavy book will also trace the history of Japanese tattooing, putting the iconography and kanji symbols in their proper context so readers will be better informed as to what they mean and have a deeper understanding of irezumi. Tattoos featured will range from traditional tebori (hand-poked) and kanji tattoos to anime-inspired and modern works-as well as everything in between. For the first time, Japanese tattooing will be put together in a visually attractive, informative, and authoritative way.

Along with the 350+ photos of tattoos, Japanese Tattoos will also feature interviews with Japanese tattoo artists on a variety of topics.

The Financial Times (21,000,000 monthly visitors) recently interviewed Brian Ashcraft and Hori Benny for a story about "Tattoos and the Japanese constitution". Watch the entire story here

"Every time I flip through this richly detailed book I find another tattoo image to read about, another tradition or legacy to learn about. I know the world of Japanese tattooing could fill multiple volumes and indeed it does  but I don't think your collection would be complete without this gem." -Tattoo Tourist