Thinking of getting a Japanese-style tattoo? Want to avoid a permanent mistake? Japanese Tattoos is an insider's look at the world of Japanese irezumi (tattoos).

Japanese Tattoos explains the imagery featured in Japanese tattoos so that readers can avoid getting ink they don't understand or, worse, that they'll regret. This photo-heavy book will also trace the history of Japanese tattooing, putting the iconography and kanji symbols in their proper context so readers will be better informed as to what they mean and have a deeper understanding of irezumi. Tattoos featured will range from traditional tebori (hand-poked) and kanji tattoos to anime-inspired and modern works—as well as everything in between. For the first time, Japanese tattooing will be put together in a visually attractive, informative, and authoritative way.

Along with the 350+ photos of tattoos, Japanese Tattoos will also feature interviews with Japanese tattoo artists on a variety of topics.

“Japanese culture has a fascinating relationship with tattoos. Once banned and still frowned upon by mainstream contemporary society, the art form has survived against the odds. US expat and now resident of Osaka, Brian Ashcraft, has co-authored 'Japanese Tattoos-history, culture, design'. He joins Michael Williams to give his insights into why Japanese tattoos are so powerful, and yet so maligned.”

“Every time I flip through this richly detailed book I find another tattoo image to read about, another tradition or legacy to learn about. I know the world of Japanese tattooing could fill multiple volumes – and indeed it does – but I don’t think your collection would be complete without this gem. And in all seriousness – if you are considering getting a Japanese style tattoo do yourself a huge favor and read this book first. It will give you a solid understanding of the motifs and what they mean and how they work with other symbols. It will also undoubtedly give you a million ideas, and hopefully instill in you an appreciation for not only the beauty of this style but the history and importance as well.” —Tattoo Tourist

About the Authors
Hori Benny was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota and moved to Japan in 2002. He began a tattoo apprenticeship in Osaka's America Mura district at Chopstick Tattoo in 2004, making his professional debut in early 2007. He specializes in full custom work of all genres and is also a student of Japanese flower arrangement. Benny currently works at Chopstick Tattoo's 2nd location near Triangle Park in downtown Osaka, but is opening his own shop.

Brian Ashcraft is the Senior Contributing Editor for video game site Kotaku. Ashcraft was previously a Contributing Editor at Wired Magazine, and his work has also appeared in Popular Science, The Guardian, The Japan Times, and design journal Metropolis Magazine and in numerous publications worldwide. Ashcraft is the author of Arcade Mania! and Japanese Schoolgirl Confidential. Originally from Texas, he has called Osaka home for well over a decade.