1. Introduction
Tattoos have long been a part of Japanese culture, with many people getting them for both spiritual and decorative purposes. However, in recent years, there has been a crackdown on tattoos in Japan due to the rise of organized crime and gangs. In this article, we will discuss what tattoos are not allowed in Japan, as well as the punishments for violating the law on tattoos.
2. Tattoos in Japanese Culture
Tattoos have a long history in Japan, dating back to at least the Edo period (1603-1868). They were traditionally used by Yakuza members to signify their rank or affiliation with a particular gang. In modern times, tattoos have become more popular among young people and have become more socially acceptable. However, there are still restrictions on what kinds of tattoos are allowed in Japan.
3. Tattoo Restrictions in Japan
In general, tattoos that contain offensive content such as obscene words or images are not allowed in Japan. This includes images of political figures or symbols associated with hate speech or discrimination against certain groups of people. Additionally, any tattoo that is considered to be too large or too visible may also be prohibited by law enforcement officers if they deem it to be offensive or disruptive to public order.
4. Tattoos that are Illegal in Japan
In addition to offensive content being illegal, there are also some types of tattoos that are strictly prohibited by Japanese law. These include full-body tattoos (known as “irezumi”), which cover large portions of the body and often contain mythical creatures and religious symbols; facial tattoos (known as “horimono”); and hand-tattoos (known as “tebori”). All three types of these tattoos are considered illegal in Japan and can result in criminal prosecution if they are discovered by law enforcement officials.
5. Tattoos that are Prohibited in Public Places
In addition to these illegal types of tattoos, there is also a ban on displaying any kind of tattoo in public places such as schools and hospitals. This includes covering up the tattoo with clothing or using makeup to hide it from view; displaying the tattoo is strictly prohibited under Japanese law and can result in fines or even imprisonment if discovered by law enforcement officers.
6. The Punishment for Violating the Law on Tattoos
The punishment for violating the laws regarding tattoos varies depending on whether you were caught displaying an illegal tattoo or actually getting one done without permission from authorities first. If you were caught displaying an illegal tattoo then you could face fines up to 500 yen (approximately $5 USD) or even jail time if convicted; however this is usually only applied when someone is found displaying an offensive tattoo such as one containing hate speech or discriminatory imagery towards certain groups of people like ethnic minorities or LGBT individuals.If you were caught getting an illegal tattoo then you could face much harsher punishments such as fines up to 1 million yen (approximately $9000 USD) and/or up to 3 years imprisonment if convicted; this punishment is usually reserved for those who get full body tattoos without permission from authorities first.
7 How to Obtain Legal Permission to Get a Tattoo in Japan
If you want to get a legal tattoo then you must obtain permission from local government authorities beforehand; this usually involves submitting detailed plans about where your intended tattoo will be located along with photos showing its size and design before being approved by local government officials.It’s important to note that even though obtaining permission may seem like a hassle it’s actually beneficial since it helps keep track of who has received what kind of legal tattoo so that those who violate laws regarding offensive content can be prosecuted quickly if needed.
8 Conclusion
In conclusion,although there has been a crackdown on tattoos recently due to their association with organized crime,there are still some legal ways for people who wish to get them.By understanding what kinds of tattoos are not allowed,how they can be punished,and how one can obtain legal permission,individuals can make sure they stay within the bounds of Japanese law when getting their desired ink.
9 References
>
1) https://www3.nhk.orjp/news/web_tokushu/2018_0522/indexhtml 2) https://japantodaycom/category/crime/police-crackdown-on-illegal-tattooing 3) https://wwwjapantimescojp/culture/2018/09/15/general/tattooing-japan-knowing-lawful-illegal/#:~:text=Full%20body%20tattoos%20(irezumi),of%20the%20penal%20code%20outlawed&text=Anyone%20caught%20with%20an%20illegal,up%20to%202million%20yen
Can I still go to Japan if I have tattoos?
But before we get into the details a short answer to the question in the title of this article: Yes you can go to Japan with a tattoo.
Where are tattoos not allowed in Japan?
Tattoos related to organized crime have long been taboo in Japan. Many beach resorts with hot springs and gyms do not allow people with tattoos. Companies often outright reject signed applicants.
Why tattoo is not allowed in Japan?
Tattoos have long been stigmatized in Japan for their association with organized crime gangs of the yakuza who swear allegiance with marks all over their bodies. As a result anyone with ink regardless of their occupation generally cannot use public swimming pools hot springs beaches and even some gymnasiums.
Can Americans show tattoos in Japan?
Although tattoos are not illegal they can prevent people from getting the full Japanese experience. When using public transport in Japan for example tourists with visible tattoos from the train should be aware that their ink may offend some locals.
Can foreigners show tattoos in Japan?
Japans rules are very strict and almost all hot springs and whirlpools have a no-tattoo policy so there is no doubt that if a foreigner comes to your table with a tattoo and just covers it up thats acceptable . If you cant cover it dont go to those areas.
Do gyms in Japan allow tattoos?
Getting stigmas keeps you from the big clubs and circles in Japan but that doesnt work. Im usually healthy but I broke my ankle and had two surgeries and gained a lot of weight during the pandemic/working at home.
