Tattoos have a long and varied history in Japan, with evidence suggesting that they have been used as far back as 10,000 BC. Today, tattoos are still popular in Japan but there is still a general stigma attached to them in mainstream society due to their association with organized crime groups such as the Yakuza. However, attitudes towards tattoos are slowly beginning to change in mainstream Japanese society and it is legal to get a tattoo done at a licensed parlor. There are no laws regarding where tattoos can be placed on the body or how big they can be, however many public places may not allow people with visible tattoos inside due to fears about hygiene standards or potential gang affiliations. Having a tattoo should not affect travel plans when visiting/living in Japan but employers may take into consideration whether someone has visible ones when considering them for employment opportunities.