No, tattoos are not illegal in Japan.
While not illegal, the social perception of tattoos in Japan is nuanced. Here's a breakdown:
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Legality: Tattoos are legal. There are no laws prohibiting individuals from getting tattoos or tattoo artists from practicing.
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Social Stigma: Historically, tattoos in Japan were associated with organized crime (Yakuza). This association has led to a lingering social stigma.
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Public Spaces:
- According to the provided reference, visible tattoos can be offensive to some locals, which can present challenges when using public transportation such as trains.
- Some onsen (hot springs), gyms, and swimming pools may prohibit entry to individuals with visible tattoos.
- Wearing clothing to cover tattoos or using skin-colored bandages can be a way to mitigate potential issues in these situations.
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Tourism: Tourists should be mindful of the social perception of tattoos and consider covering them in certain situations to avoid causing offense.
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Changing Attitudes: Attitudes are slowly changing, especially among younger generations and in more cosmopolitan areas. However, it's still important to be respectful of local customs.
