Modern Japan

Today tattoos are once again considered fashionable in Japan following the ‘global tattoo trend’ (McCabe, 2005: 11). This is due to the fascination with the West, especially US culture, which has increased the popularity of tattoos in Japan. However, the attitude towards tattooed individuals is either neutral or cautiously positive, depending on the type of tattoo. If a foreigner has a tattoo, then the younger Japanese generation tends to have a more relaxed attitude, since the foreigners in their opinion are not associated with Japanese criminal organizations. However, if a Japanese person has a tattoo, then the general population tends to immediately assume that they are linked to yakuza or criminals, therefore avoiding him or her.

Japanese travelers may accept the idea of being tattooed as a form of self-expression and bring it back to Japan. As a consequence of this movement, the Western-influenced type of tattooing called wan pointo tatuu or 'one-point tattoo', meaning getting only one tattoo, is often accepted within Japanese tattooing practices used by the younger crowds (Bradshaw, 2007; McCabe, 2005). However, traditional tattooists, such as Horikazu, seem to have mixed feelings about the popularity of one-point tattooing, mentioning that "obtaining a one-point tattoo is similar to going to a convenience store" (Yamada 2009).

Not only in Japan, but throughout the world, tattooing and other forms of body modifications have become a means to declare self-expression, self-determination, and identity. Some young Japanese choose to be tattooed as a form of art, fashion and lifestyle choice, and others are tattooed to keep their memories on the skin (Yamada, 2008). This coexistence of Japanese tradition and Western cultures results in cultural hybridity and complexity. For the Japanese traditional tattooists, it is important to preserve their tradition for future tattooists. However, from the contemporary tattooist’s view, passing on such traditions as the apprenticeship is considered old-fashioned, although the artistry should be appreciated.