1. Introduction
Tattoos are an ancient form of body art, with cultural significance across many societies, including Japan. While tattoos have become more accepted in recent years in the West, they still carry a stigma in Japanese culture, and this can affect one’s ability to get a job. In this article, we will explore the cultural significance of tattoos in Japan and discuss how having a tattoo may affect one’s ability to gain employment.
2. Cultural Significance of Tattoos in Japan
Tattoos have had a long history in Japan, with some evidence that they were used as far back as 10,000 BC. Traditionally, tattoos were associated with criminals and outcasts and were used as punishment or identification marks for those who had committed crimes or been banished from society. Even today, tattoos are seen by many Japanese people as taboo or unprofessional and are often frowned upon by employers.
3. Effects of Having a Tattoo on Employment in Japan
Due to the traditional stigma around tattoos in Japan, having one can make it more difficult to find employment. Many employers will not even consider applicants with visible tattoos for certain positions, particularly those that involve customer service or hospitality roles where the employee is expected to be presentable at all times. This is especially true for larger companies where there is an emphasis on professionalism and maintaining a certain image.
4. The Role of Businesses and Employers in Japan
It is important to note that while some employers may not hire individuals with visible tattoos due to cultural norms, there are also businesses that actively embrace diversity and accept applicants regardless of their body art choices. Some companies do not have any restrictions on visible tattoos while others may allow them but require them to be covered up during working hours or prohibit certain types of designs such as those depicting violence or gang affiliations. It is important for job seekers to research different companies before applying so they know what their policies are regarding body art before submitting their applications.
5. Public Perception of Tattoos in the Workplace
In addition to employer policies regarding visible tattoos, public perception can also play a role when it comes to getting hired for certain jobs in Japan. Even if an employer does not explicitly state that they do not hire individuals with visible body art, potential employees may still face discrimination from customers or peers if they have any visible ink on their bodies. This can lead to uncomfortable situations both at work and outside of it which can make it difficult for individuals with body art to find employment even if the company itself has no restrictions against them hiring someone with visible ink..
6 Navigating Tattoo Taboos as an Expat in Japan
For expats living and working in Japan who already have visible tattoos, navigating workplace taboos can be a challenge but it is possible if you take the right steps prior to applying for jobs. It is important to research each company’s individual policies regarding body art before submitting your application so you know what their stance is beforehand and can adjust your wardrobe accordingly when attending interviews or other meetings related to your job search process.. Additionally, it might be beneficial for expats looking for work in Japan who already have visible tattoos to seek out smaller businesses which tend to be more open-minded about hiring individuals with body art than larger corporations which usually have stricter policies regarding this matter..
7 Seeking Professional Advice When Applying for Jobs With A Tattoo When applying for jobs in Japan with visible tattoos it might be beneficial to seek professional advice from someone who understands both the local culture and workplace etiquette when dealing with this issue specifically.. Charles R Tokoyama CEO of “Japan Insiders” offers consulting services specifically tailored towards helping expats navigate cultural differences when looking for employment opportunities within the country.. He provides advice on how best present yourself during job interviews while still being true to yourself so you don’t feel like you need hide any part of your identity.. Additionally his services also include helping expats understand Japanese business culture so they’re better prepared when entering into professional environments within the country..
8 Conclusion In conclusion having a tattoo does affect getting hired for certain jobs within Japan due its long-standing cultural stigma against body art however there are ways around this obstacle such as researching individual companies policies regarding hiring individuals with visible ink prior submitting applications seeking professional advice from experts such as Charles R Tokoyama CEO “Japan Insiders” who specialize navigating cultural differences between countries when looking employment opportunities within them.. Despite these challenges there still plenty opportunities available those willing put effort into finding right fit themselves within Japanese workforce regardless whether they have tattoo not..
< h9 >9 References “Tattoo History – Ancient Origins”. Ancient-originsnet., 2021 https://www.ancient-originsnet/history-ancient-traditions/tattoo-history-0014143 Accessed 3 April 2021 “Tattoos And The Job Hunt In Tokyo”. Savvy Tokyo., 2021 https://savvytokyo/tattoos-and-the-job-hunt-in-tokyo/ Accessed 3 April 2021 “How To Find A Job In Tokyo As An Expat With Visible Tattoos”. Gaijinpot Jobs., 2021 https://jobsgaijinpotcom/career-advice/finding_a_job_with_visible_tattoos_in_japan Accessed 3 April 2021
Can I still work in Japan with tattoos?
Tattoos are really cool in Japan. They are not illegal by any means. You can also see some people walking around with trendy tattoos especially in Tokyo. Although some people in Japan have tattoos they are usually hidden under their clothes.
Does Japan care about tattoos?
Japan has long banned tattoos associated with organized crime. Many beaches have hot springs and resorts do not allow people with tattoos.Companies often block applicants with certain affiliations.
Can having tattoos affect getting job?
Body art is no longer a stigma in the labor market new research suggests. Michael T.
Can you get a teaching job in Japan with tattoos?
For example if you intend to teach English with tattoos in Japan you will find schools that prohibit teachers from wearing visible tattoos. This is mainly due to traditional tattooing in association with the Yakuza (Japanese mafia).
Do Japanese people care if foreigners have tattoos?
Rules are very important in Japan and not all gyms and gyms have any stigma laws so a stranger walking up to your table with stigmas is a cause for concern. Tattoos cover these up and are accepted. If you cant cover yourself dont go.
Can foreigners with tattoos go to Japan?
But before we get into the details a simple answer to the question in the title of this article: Yes you can go to Japan if you get a tattoo.
