Tattoo

Tebori: how Japanese tattooing works without a machine (and why some people swear by it)

Tebori (手彫り) is the traditional Japanese hand-tattooing method: no machine, just bamboo and needles. Bokashi gradients, pain vs machine, cost, and how to find a real Horishi. By Jérémy, Dai Yokai founder.

DAI YOKAI

May 154 min read

Traditional color Hannya tattoo, Japanese irezumi mask motif

Hannya tattoo: jealousy, control and irezumi rules

A Hannya tattoo only works when the story is respected: jealousy, anger, restraint, placement, background and the rules of irezumi.

DAI YOKAI

Mar 116 min read

Kuniyoshi Japanese woodblock print with samurai tattoo

Irezumi: The Forbidden and Sacred Art of Japanese Tattooing

In Japan, tattoos are not simply a fashion accessory. They are spiritual armor, a test of endurance, and a living work of art that breathes in rhythm with the wearer.

DAI YOKAI

Jan 43 min read