Japanese Tattoo Artists: Irezumi, Dragons, Koi
Irezumi, traditional Japanese tattooing, traces its roots back to the Edo period (17th–19th centuries). Dragons, koi, waves, cherry blossoms, samurai, geishas — a codified narrative art with precise rules of composition and flow. Every motif carries deep symbolism, and every placement on the body holds meaning. This style is typically conceived as large-scale work: half sleeves, full sleeves, full backs.
On InkMeet, you will find authentic Japanese tattoo artists who master both traditional machine work and the tebori hand-poke technique. Filter by city, browse portfolios, and discuss your narrative project directly with the artist.
Japanese characteristics
- Codified iconography (dragons, koi, tigers, cherry blossoms, waves)
- Narrative composition designed for large pieces
- Bold outlines and rich color fills
- Traditional placements: sleeves, back, thighs
- Often worked in long multi-year sessions
How much does a Japanese tattoo cost?
| Size | Range (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Small | 200–400 € |
| Medium | 1500–3500 € |
| Large | 5000–10000 € |
| Hourly rate | 130–220 € |
Small: $220-$500. Half sleeve: $1,800-$4,200. Full sleeve: $6,000-$12,000+. Hourly rate: $150-$280. Large Japanese pieces are typically completed over multiple sessions spread across 6 to 18 months.
Japanese FAQ
How long for a full sleeve?
Typically 30 to 60 hours, spread over 6 to 18 months of sessions.
Can I freely choose my motifs?
The artist will guide you to respect traditional narrative coherence (some combinations are culturally incompatible).
What is tebori?
A traditional manual bamboo technique, slower than machine, producing denser colors.