Japan has unique legal restrictions on tattooing, requiring artists to be licensed medical professionals.
Licensing & Training
- A 2020 Japanese Supreme Court ruling held that tattooing is not a medical act, overturning the earlier rule that only licensed doctors could legally tattoo. Non-medical tattoo artists may now legally practice.
- Training remains self-regulated within the industry — there is no formal national licensing exam.
Studio & Health Regulations
- Studios must meet strict sanitation and sterilization standards.
- Most professional tattoo artists follow global hygiene practices to prevent infections.
- Single-use needles, gloves, and ink caps are used for every client.
Age Restrictions
- There is no national law, but most prefectures have legally binding Youth Protection Ordinances that set a minimum tattoo age — typically 18, with Osaka at 20 — and can fine artists who violate them. This is enforceable local law, not just artist discretion.
For more information on regulations, visit the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.
