Unlike some of the trendy statements tattoos have come to represent nowadays, tattoos in other cultures reflect honor, sacred beliefs, or tell stories of one’s identity. In the beginning of Japanese tattoo, they were meant to represent something sinister. And today many still believe that those who wear the armor may be affiliated with a gang, even though it isn’t necessarily true.

Originally tattoos in Japan were given to criminals as a badge of their crimes. Symbols would either be marked upon their foreheads, or more commonly, they would have rings tattooed on their arms. The more offenses committed, the more rings tattooed on the arm.

The exact origin of the Yakuza is unknown. But some historians believe they began as early as the 17th century. Some Yakuza believe they are descendents of the kabuki-mono (crazy ones), a more outlandish form of samurai. When the services of the samurai were no longer needed (during the Tokogawa period), the samurai became ronin, leaning towards theft and mischief making.

The Yakuza of today proclaim themselves to be descendents of the machi-yoko (servants of the town). They believe themselves to be chivalrous and doing deeds for the good of the people. Regardless of belief, the form of the tattoo has taken on a new meaning of pride rather than disgrace.

To get an entire body armor of tattoos can take up to two years, and cost upwards of $100,000. It is extremely painful, as true Japanese artists do not use the electric machines. They still practice the old form of tabori. Sets of needles are attached to a metal or wooden handle, and then the ink is tapped into the skin. It requires many years of skill and practice to be able to create the subtle colors and shadows of a tattoo that no modern tattooist can recreate.

While tattooing among the Yakuza was prevalent amongst the men, it is now more common to see the wives, mistresses, and daughters of the affiliated to become tattooed. The women undergo the tattooing procedures to show their loyalty. And whatever stigma may be attached to the Yakuza and their tattoos, one cannot deny the beauty of the art.

Man wearing a tiger, which is one of the more common symbols seen on Yakuza members. The tiger represents fearlessness, and many samurai of the past had tattoos of a tiger tattooed upon their body.

A member with full armor. All parts of the body are tattooed with the exception of face and feet.

Example of the tabori practice.

Young woman who had tattooed her body in loyalty to her father who is a top crime boss in Japan.

Another example of a woman tattooed with armor.