Located right off the main strip in Asakusa, the studio is a perfect match for the quintessential Japanese scenery outside. Clean, minimalist design meets natural wood beams to create a calming atmosphere—something you will appreciate once the needles come out.

“Wa,” a term referring to traditional Japanese aesthetics, was intentionally chosen as the theme for this location, setting the right tone and ensuring that your visit feels like an experience rather than just a simple tattoo session.

Step through the door and you will be greeted by friendly bilingual staff ready to guide you through the process. Walk-ins are always welcome, but to ensure you get a tattoo, we recommend making a reservation, and the team is well accustomed to dealing with clients who may not have decided on placement, size, or even the design before arriving.

Consultations are handled personally in the waiting area, where clients are free to browse artist portfolios or talk through their ideas with staff until they feel confident about their direction. At this point, you will be matched with an artist best suited to your piece, particularly if you have a very specific style in mind. The studio has seven tattoo beds available at any given time and aims to minimize wait times once your design stencil is ready.

From there, it is business as usual: the machine starts buzzing, and you will be in safe hands through to the very end, including clear aftercare guidance provided in English. As a clean and modern studio, KAGEROU uses properly sourced inks and adheres strictly to industry-standard hygiene practices.

One of the biggest advantages of being able to discuss a Japanese-style design in English is the freedom to create something authentic yet uniquely your own. Too often, international tattoo collectors end up choosing standard flash designs rather than pieces tailored to who they are.

Don’t worry, the artists at KAGEROU have heard it all. Whether you want an homage to your favorite anime character, a meme, or something deeply personal that no one else will understand, you are in good hands— after all, it is your skin.

Take a look at the recent work below and let it inspire you to claim the perfect little slice of Japan you have been dreaming of.

Q: Where are the KAGEROU artists trained?
Alongside many artists with experience tattooing around the world, KAGEROU maintains a rigorous in-house training program. Aspiring artists begin by practicing on fake skin before gradually progressing to working on fellow apprentices. Any downtime in the studio is dedicated to learning from senior artists and continually refining their craft.

Q: How much does a tattoo cost and how long will it take?
That depends on the size, complexity, color of your design, and—of course—how still you can sit! Prices start from 12,000 yen (before tax) for very small pieces, while a design roughly the size of a smartphone typically costs around 30,000 yen (before tax). Don’t worry, the price will always be confirmed before your session begins.
For walk-in clients, a smartphone-sized design is generally the largest that can be completed comfortably in one visit. For anything larger, it is recommended to book in advance or schedule multiple sessions.

Q: I have no idea what design I want. Am I still welcome?
Absolutely! As a team of tattoo enthusiasts, we can suggest ideas based on your tastes and what we think will suit you best. The more input you can provide, the better, of course, but it is very common for friends to come in and discuss ideas for matching tattoos until they land on a design they love.

Q: What kind of aftercare should I expect?
Simply put, you should avoid soaking your new tattoo in hot water, such as an onsen hot spring, on the day you get it. Otherwise, as long as you follow basic cleanliness and care instructions, there is nothing to stop you from enjoying the rest of your holiday while your tattoo heals.

Q: It is the day of the tattoo—what should I prepare?
Preparation actually starts the day before. The best thing you can do is eat well and get a good night’s sleep. Drinking heavily the night prior can make the session difficult, so it is best to avoid it for your own comfort and the ease of the artist.
On the day, you might want to bring some snacks to keep your energy up, and some people like to pop on some headphones and zone out while getting inked. Don’t worry too much about the prep—our artists have seen it all. If you need a break during the session, just let them know.

Q: How old do you have to be to get tattooed in Japan?
Age requirements may vary depending on your country of origin, so it is wise to check. At KAGEROU, we only tattoo clients aged 20 or older. If there is any doubt, we will need to see some ID.

Q: Finally, are there tattoos you don’t do?
Generally, no—it’s your body. However, we will advise you on potential risks, such as fading that can occur with hand tattoos, and may suggest you think twice if you’re considering a face tattoo as your first piece! Our goal is to ensure you love your tattoo for life.

So there you have it: a look into the world of KAGEROU TATTOO, a studio dedicated to making Japanese tattooing accessible to a wide audience. Interestingly, their client base is about 60% male and 40% female, which is relatively uncommon in Japan, so it seems they must be doing something right!