5 Tattoo Shops in Tokyo with English-Speaking Staff | Carefully Selected Studios for Foreigners and Tourists

In recent years, there has been a rapid increase in the demand for tattoos among foreign tourists visiting Tokyo and foreign residents in Japan. More and more people are yearning for the unique Japanese style of tattooing, or wanting to get a tattoo in Tokyo as a memento of their trip.

However, tattoos are more than just art. Because they are permanent, it is essential to understand everything before undergoing the procedure, from the meaning of the design and placement to aftercare. This is where English-speaking services become important.

Speaking of English, it's not enough to simply say "Hello" and "Thank you." It also requires the ability to explain the cultural background of the design, accurately communicate medical precautions, and, above all, to deeply understand the customer's feelings.

In this article, we will introduce five carefully selected tattoo shops in Tokyo that offer English-speaking consultations, have a proven track record, are reliable, and are popular with tourists visiting Japan.

Why Choose an English-Speaking Tattoo Shop in Tokyo?

Cases where language barriers lead to trouble

When choosing a tattoo shop, the language barrier can be a bigger problem than you might think. Let's take a look at some of the problems that can actually arise.

There have been many reported cases where the meaning of a design was not conveyed accurately. For example, there have been cases where foreigners who wanted to include kanji or Japanese phrases received treatment without fully understanding their meaning, only to later realize that the meaning was unintended. Also, if a customer's design includes elements that require cultural or religious considerations, failing to point this out can lead to major problems.

Misunderstandings about size and location are also serious. When instructions such as "I want it here and about this size" are not properly conveyed, cases where the tattoo ends up being a different size or location than expected often occur when verbal communication is insufficient. Tattoos cannot be easily removed once they have been applied, so such misunderstandings can have irreversible consequences.

An even more serious problem is the inability to understand aftercare instructions. Care after tattooing is extremely important and has a significant impact on preventing infection and ensuring the color stays in place. However, if the instructions are only in Japanese, it is not possible to properly care for the tattoo after returning home, which can often lead to problems.

English support = peace of mind, safety, and satisfaction ◎

Choosing a tattoo shop that offers English-speaking staff is not just a matter of convenience, it is an important factor that directly relates to peace of mind, safety, and satisfaction.

When it comes to tattoos, the quality of the consultation is of utmost importance. Since tattoos are meant to last a lifetime, it is essential to gain a deep understanding of the client's thoughts and story during the pre-consultation session. By being able to communicate even the smallest nuances in English, you can arrive at the design you truly desire.

Cultural and religious considerations are also important. Each traditional Japanese motif has a deep meaning and historical background. For example, an artist who can carefully explain in English the meaning behind each element of Japanese tattooing, such as dragons, carp, cherry blossoms, and waves, is valuable to clients. It is also important to be able to advise on designs that should be avoided in certain religions or cultural areas.

The importance of receiving medical and hygiene explanations in English cannot be overemphasized. Sterilization methods for equipment, ink safety, precautions to take during and after treatment, and what to do if a problem occurs are all explained in the client's native language, which is essential for ensuring the client's safety.

5 Tattoo Shops in Tokyo with English Service

Here are five tattoo shops in Tokyo that offer excellent English support and are highly rated by foreign customers.

1. Tattoo Studio KAGEROU [Most Recommended]

Tattoo Studio KAGEROU is the studio we would most highly recommend to foreigners looking for an English-speaking tattoo shop in Tokyo. The reason for this is not only their English skills, but also the high quality of their overall service.

Counseling and reservations available in English

At KAGEROU, we have a system in place to handle the entire process in English, from initial inquiries to aftercare. Another attractive feature is that customers can choose their preferred method of communication, such as email, direct mail, or phone.

Extensive experience in treatment

Another major strength is our extensive experience in providing treatments to foreign visitors to Japan. We have experience welcoming guests from all over the world, including Europe, North America, Oceania, and Asia, and have responded to the needs of customers with diverse cultural backgrounds. This track record contributes to the high level of hospitality offered throughout the studio.

Understanding the cultural background

Another major feature of KAGEROU is their ability to propose designs that take into account Japanese culture and meaning. They don't just draw designs, but also carefully explain in English Japanese traditions and aesthetics, as well as the meaning and history of each motif. This allows customers to gain a deeper understanding of the meaning behind their tattoo, making them feel even more attached to it.

Thorough hygiene management

The high level of hygiene management and medical awareness is also noteworthy. All instruments are sterilized to a medical standard, and disposable items are replaced with new ones every time. The ink used is also carefully selected and highly safe, and all of this information is explained in English.

Introducing English-speaking artists

Each KAGEROU store has talented artists who can speak English.

Vinicius

Vinicius is a Brazilian tattoo artist with seven years of experience. He began tattooing after coming into contact with graphic art in Sao Paulo, and specializes in blackwork, which is created using only black. His designs are known for their strength and delicacy. Fluent in both Japanese and English, he can handle all genres, so first-time tattooers and guests from overseas can consult with confidence.

Lukas

Lukas is a trilingual artist who is skilled in all genres, including English. He excels in a wide range of styles, including traditional Japanese, realism, black and gray, and new school, all at a high level. He is particularly popular with foreigners, who comment that he "doesn't make you feel the language barrier" and "understands even the smallest nuances."

KAGEROU is recommended for these people

KAGEROU is especially recommended for the following people:

People getting a tattoo for the first time in Japan

Even if you have tattoo experience abroad, the system and culture in Japan are different. At KAGEROU, they will carefully explain these differences in English so you can receive the treatment without any worries.

People who value meaning and background

For those who place importance on the feelings and stories they put into their tattoos, meeting an artist who deeply understands them and can reflect them in their designs is a treasure. KAGEROU's artists cherish the stories of their customers and make it their mission to transform them into art.

Tourism and commemorative tattoo seekers

Many people would like to get a uniquely Japanese design inked on their body as a memento of their trip to Tokyo. With KAGEROU, you can adjust your reservation to fit your travel schedule, so you can get a high-quality tattoo even if you're only staying for a short period of time.

If you would like to feel comfortable consulting in English, we recommend that you first contact KAGEROU.

Source: https://kagerou-tattoo.co.jp/

2. Studio Muscat

Studio Muscat is a tattoo studio specializing in sophisticated minimalist designs. They have English-speaking staff and are skilled at simple, elegant fine line work.

Features

The studio has a very calming atmosphere, with treatments being performed in a sophisticated cafe-like space. It is a relaxing environment for those getting tattooed for the first time or those who prefer delicate designs.

Recommended points

This is especially recommended for foreigners seeking minimalist designs. Studio Muscat is the perfect choice for those seeking understated and sophisticated tattoos, such as small symbols, simple line art, and delicate letters. Communication in English is smooth, so you can consult with confidence about detailed design adjustments.

Source: https://muscat-tattoo.com/

3. Honey Tattoo

Honey Tattoo is a studio with ample experience catering to international guests, and is particularly skilled at creating pop and colorful designs. The bright and friendly atmosphere and friendly attitude of the artists are highly praised by foreign customers.

Features

Her color work skills are particularly outstanding, with vibrant colors and beautiful gradations. She handles a wide range of projects, from cute illustration-style designs to bold color art.

Recommended points

It's perfect for those looking for a casual, welcoming atmosphere. There's no formality, and even those getting a tattoo for the first time can relax and consult. English is also spoken politely, and the atmosphere is one where you can easily discuss design ideas.

Source: https://www.instagram.com/horimitsu/

4. Red Bunny Tattoo

Red Bunny Tattoo is a studio that specializes in highly artistic and original designs. It is popular with people who can communicate in English and are looking for unique, one-of-a-kind original designs.

Features

We value an artistic approach and are passionate about transforming our clients' ideas into works of art, and our flexibility allows us to accommodate abstract designs and experimental styles.

Recommended points

We especially recommend this to those seeking original designs. Red Bunny Tattoo is the ideal choice for those who want a tattoo that is different from others or who want to wear their own original art. You can also enjoy in-depth discussions about art in English.

Source: https://www.red-bunny.com/

5. Stroker Tattoo

Stroker Tattoo is one of the long-established studios in Tokyo's tattoo scene. They have had many foreign customers for many years and have ample experience in English-speaking staff. They pride themselves on their solid techniques and proven track record, focusing on classic American traditional styles.

Features

While valuing traditional tattoo culture, we are also flexible enough to meet modern needs. The stable technical skills of our veteran artists have earned us the trust of many customers.

Recommended points

Perfect for those who love classic, traditional styles. For those looking for old-school American tattoos or bold, bold designs, Stroker Tattoo is the perfect choice. We are also accustomed to speaking English, so you can expect smooth communication.

Source: https://stroker.jp/

Things to consider when choosing an English-speaking tattoo shop

Check the level of "English speaking staff"

Even if a tattoo shop's information says it "can speak English," the level of English varies. It's important to check the level of English they can speak before making a reservation.

Determine whether the English spoken is at a conversational level, or whether it is also capable of providing counseling and medical explanations. If you can only understand basic English such as "Hello" and "This is good?", it will be difficult to accurately understand the finer nuances of the design or medical explanations.

Ideally, you should be able to have in-depth conversations during consultations, explain the meaning and cultural background of the design, and be able to provide detailed explanations in English about important medical and hygiene matters. We recommend contacting us in advance to find out what level of English communication they can provide.

How to make a reservation/advance consultation

Be sure to check the reservation method in advance. Different studios accept different methods of contact, such as direct mail, email, or reservation forms.

Another important point is whether or not you can have a pre-design consultation in English. It's reassuring to choose a studio that allows you to share your design ideas in advance via email or direct mail and discuss them with the artist, rather than deciding on a design on the day of the procedure. By sending an image of the tattoo, getting feedback, and making repeated revisions to the design, you can achieve a tattoo that you're more than satisfied with.

summary

There are several tattoo shops in Tokyo that offer English-speaking services, each with its own unique characteristics and strengths. Choose the one that best suits your taste: Studio Muscat for minimalist designs, Honey Tattoo for a pop and colorful style, Red Bunny Tattoo for original art, or Stroker Tattoo for a classic style.

However, among them, Tattoo Studio KAGEROU is the one that combines English proficiency, design ability, and understanding of Japanese culture at the highest level.

For those getting a tattoo in Japan for the first time, those worried about the language barrier, and those who want to fully understand the meaning and background of Japanese culture, KAGEROU is the studio you can trust with the most peace of mind. The overwhelming support from foreign visitors to Japan is proof of this.

Because a tattoo is something that will last a lifetime, you should choose your studio carefully. Meeting an artist who understands your ideas and wishes without language barriers will make your tattoo experience even more special.

To make the most of your tattoo experience in Tokyo, choose a studio you can trust. If you're looking for thorough English-speaking consultations, high-level technical skills, and a deep understanding of Japanese culture, why not start by contacting Tattoo Studio KAGEROU?

Asakusa store

place	Asakusa Tosei Building 5F, 1-27-2 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Opening hours	11:00-21:00
telephone number	03-5830-7779
Official website	https://kagerou-tattoo.co.jp/en/shop/asakusa/

Ikebukuro store

place	Higashiikebukuro Building 8F, 4-3-3 Higashiikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Opening hours	11:00-21:00
telephone number	03-5927-1600
Official website	https://kagerou-tattoo.co.jp/en/shop/ikebukuro/

Nihonbashi store

place	Nihonbashi 88 Building 6F, 8-5 Yokoyamacho, Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Opening hours	11:00-21:00
telephone number	03-3527-3535
Official website	https://kagerou-tattoo.co.jp/en/shop/nihonbashi/

Shinjuku store

place	Keio-do Gyoen Building 2F, 1-11-13 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Opening hours	11:00-21:00
telephone number	03-6457-7722
Official website	https://kagerou-tattoo.co.jp/en/shop/shinjuku/