Japan’s Youth Reclaim Tattoos Beyond Yakuza Stereotypes

For decades, tattoos in Japan were associated with the Yakuza criminal underworld, leading to stigma. However, Tokyo’s younger generation is now embracing body art as a form of personal expression, choosing delicate floral designs, anime characters, and modern minimalism.

Tattooists say this cultural shift is helping break stereotypes. While tattoos remain banned in many public onsens (hot springs), the growing acceptance among youth suggests a slow transformation of Japan’s tattoo culture.