Posted inQuestion about Japan
What do Japanese think of foreigners with tattoos?
Japanese society has had a long and complicated history with tattoos, often associating them with criminality and social outcasts. In recent years, attitudes towards tattoos have become more accepting in Japan, however there is still a certain stigma attached to foreigners with visible tattoos. Generally, Japanese people tend to view foreigners with visible tattoos differently than those without them due to the historical context of tattooing in their culture. There are exceptions where foreigners with visible body art can feel welcome and accepted regardless of their body art choices such as tattoo studios, youth culture and certain areas within Tokyo and Osaka. It is important for visitors from other countries who plan on travelling/living/working in Japan to remember this cultural difference and take necessary precautions when visiting public places like temples & shrines.