Traditional Japanese tattooing (irezumi) is characterized by bold black outlines, flat color fills, and iconic subject matter — koi fish, dragons, tigers, cherry blossoms, waves, and mythological figures. These elements have been refined over centuries into a visual language that is immediately recognizable and endlessly adaptable.
Our artists bring their own perspective to Japanese-influenced work — blending traditional irezumi elements with contemporary techniques to create pieces that honor the tradition while feeling fresh and personal. Whether you want a traditional Japanese sleeve or a single Japanese-inspired piece, we can execute it.
Japanese tattoos are built for longevity — the bold linework and flat color fills age exceptionally well compared to more delicate styles. A well-executed Japanese piece will look great for decades, which is why serious collectors often choose this style for large-scale work.
Book a consultation for your Japanese tattoo at either Austin location.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do you do traditional Japanese (irezumi) tattoos at Blindside?
Yes — our artists work in Japanese and Japanese-influenced styles, including traditional irezumi elements like koi, dragons, waves, and florals.
How long does a Japanese sleeve take?
A full Japanese sleeve typically takes 40–80+ hours across multiple sessions, depending on complexity and color.
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Austin's most awarded tattoo studio · Walk-ins welcome · Hablamos español