Japanese Souvenir Tattoo in Osaka | Meaningful Tattoos for Your Japan Trip

When you travel in Japan, it’s easy to fill your suitcase with snacks, keychains, and T‑shirts. They’re fun, but they’re the kind of things that get used up, break, or stretch out after a few washes. A Japanese souvenir tattoo is different. It’s a Japan trip memory you carry on your skin for the rest of your life.

At Good Times Ink in Osaka, many of our guests are travelers who say, “I don’t just want a T‑shirt. I want a Japan travel tattoo that actually means something to me.” They bring stories about seeing Mt. Fuji, walking under red torii gates, falling in love with anime, or finding a word in Japanese that fits their life.

This article is a simple guide to help you plan that kind of tattoo. We’ll explain what a Japanese souvenir tattoo is, why it’s powerful to get it in Japan, and how we at Good Times Ink Osaka can help you turn your trip into a design you’ll be proud to wear.

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What Is a Japanese Souvenir Tattoo? Simple Guide for Travelers

A Japanese souvenir tattoo is a tattoo you get in Japan that connects directly to your trip. It’s usually based on:

• A place you visited (for example, Mt. Fuji, a shrine, or Osaka’s city streets)
• A feeling or value you discovered in Japan (like calm, resilience, or “once‑in‑a‑lifetime” moments)
• A part of Japanese culture you love (waves, koi, fox masks, samurai, cherry blossoms, bonsai, and more)
• A Japanese word, phrase, anime, or game that shaped your view of Japan

It can be very small and minimal, like a tiny ensō circle or a one‑line torii gate, or more detailed, like a wave with koi and maple leaves. The key point is this:

When you look at the tattoo, you remember this trip, this Japan story.

People also search for these pieces using phrases like “Japan trip tattoo”, “Japan travel tattoo”, or “Japan tattoo souvenir”. The idea is always the same: not just a random Japanese design, but a real memory from your time here.

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Why Get Your Japanese Tattoo Souvenir in Japan, Not Back Home

You can get a Japanese‑style tattoo outside Japan. But there are clear benefits to getting your Japanese souvenir tattoo in Japan, especially if you care about meaning, culture, and story.

1. You’re closer to the culture and the source

When you are already in Japan, you’re surrounded by the things you want to tattoo:

• Actual torii gates, shrines, and temples
• Seasonal cherry blossoms and autumn maple leaves
• Real views of waves, koi ponds, bonsai trees, and city streets

You can bring your own travel photos to the studio and say, “I want this view,” not just something you found on Google.

2. You get local eyes on your idea

Japanese motifs have history and rules of balance. For example:

• Torii gates have a certain structure
• Kitsune (fox) masks and Hannya masks have specific expressions
• Enso circles and family crests (kamon) use simple lines, but small details matter

Working with a studio in Japan means your design is checked by artists who live with these symbols every day. At Good Times Ink, we explain what each motif communicates to Japanese people and adjust the design so it feels natural, not like clip art. (GOOD TIMES INK)

3. The story of “where you got it” becomes part of the memory

Saying “I got my Mt. Fuji tattoo in Osaka, in a studio in Ame‑mura,” hits differently than “I got it in my hometown years later.” The tattoo carries:

• The memory of this trip
• The experience of visiting a Japanese tattoo studio
• The conversation you had with your artist about culture and meaning

A souvenir tattoo is not only about the picture; it’s also about when and where you chose to get it.

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Why Osaka and Why Good Times Ink for Your Japan Trip Tattoo

Osaka is a great base for travel in the Kansai area. From here you can reach Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, and other cities easily. At the same time, Osaka itself is known for friendly people, nightlife, and a more relaxed atmosphere than some bigger cities.

Good Times Ink is located in Ame‑mura (America‑mura), right in central Osaka near Shinsaibashi. We’re an open‑studio environment, which means you can walk in to look around or ask questions without an appointment for consultation. (GOOD TIMES INK)

Here are a few reasons travelers choose us for their Japan trip tattoo:

1. Variety of styles and artists

We have multiple regular artists plus guest artists, each with their own specialty—from traditional Japanese irezumi to American traditional, fine blackwork, tribal, portraits, and modern styles. Our team recommends artists based on what you want, not just who is free that day. (GOOD TIMES INK)

This is useful for souvenir tattoos, because:

• Maybe you want a classic Hokusai‑inspired wave
• Maybe you want a small minimalist Mt. Fuji
• Maybe you want a bold samurai or katana piece

We can match you with someone who is a good fit for that idea.

2. Bilingual support (English & Japanese)

Our team works in both English and Japanese, and we already handle many ideas from travelers. In the Kanji article, we talk about how we double‑check meanings, nuance, and natural usage before we put anything on skin. (GOOD TIMES INK)

The same care applies to Japanese motifs:

• We explain what a design means in Japanese culture
• We adjust details so it feels natural to local eyes
• You can ask questions in clear English, without guessing or using machine translation

3. Space and experience, not just a chair

Our studio interior is filled with vintage and custom furniture from around the world and has a lively rockabilly atmosphere. There are two floors, including private rooms upstairs for clients who want more privacy. (GOOD TIMES INK)

For many travelers, visiting Good Times Ink becomes part of the Japan memory—an afternoon in Ame‑mura, looking at Today’s Flash, talking with artists, and then leaving with a piece of Japan on their skin.

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How to Choose Your Japanese Souvenir Tattoo Motif

A strong souvenir tattoo starts with your story, not just a cool picture. Here is a simple three‑step way to choose a motif that fits you.

Step 1: Decide the Memory You Want to Carry Home

Before you think about style or size, ask:

• What do I want to remember when I look at this tattoo?
• Which moment from this trip feels “once in a lifetime”?
• Which place or experience changed how I see Japan—or myself?

Some examples:

• Your first view of Mt. Fuji from the Shinkansen
• Walking under a tunnel of red torii gates
• Seeing koi and goldfish in a quiet garden
• Late‑night food adventures in Osaka
• A word like ichigo ichie that sums up your trip

Write down one or two key memories. We can build a motif from there.

Step 2: Match That Story with a Japanese Motif

Next, we connect your story to visual symbols. Here are a few directions (we will go deeper together in consultation):

• Nature & landscapes
  • Mt. Fuji, waves, koi, goldfish, bonsai, maple leaves, cherry blossoms
• Culture & folklore
  • Samurai, katana, fox masks (kitsune), hannya masks, torii gates, daruma, family crests (kamon)
• Minimal & symbolic pieces
  • Ensō circles, origami cranes, Japanese stamp‑style designs, small waves or leaves
• Everyday Japanese things
  • Traditional toys, folk crafts, lucky charms, lanterns, maneki‑neko, and more

If you only know the feeling (“calm”, “brave”, “new start”) and not the motif, that’s fine. In consultation, we can suggest Japanese words that carry a similar meaning.

Step 3: Pick Style, Size, and Placement Together with Your Artist

Once we know the memory and motif, we decide how it will live on your skin.

• Style
  • Traditional Japanese with bold lines and rich color
  • Fine‑line black and grey
  • Graphic, stamp‑like designs
  • Mixed styles (for example, realistic wave with minimal Mt. Fuji) (GOOD TIMES INK)
• Size
  The Contact page lets you choose size categories like coin‑size, business‑card‑size, postcard‑size, and larger projects. Even a small 3 cm piece can be a strong souvenir if the idea is clear. (GOOD TIMES INK)
• Placement
  We think about your work, lifestyle, and aftercare. Do you need to hide the tattoo? Do you want to see it every day? Do you plan to add more Japanese tattoos later?

You don’t have to solve this alone. Bring your ideas, and we’ll suggest combinations that look good now and also age well.

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Sample Gallery Section: 35 Japanese Souvenir Tattoo Ideas

Enso & Japanese Brush-Stroke Motifs

Enso—the single brush-stroke circle from Zen culture—has become one of the most popular styles for travelers seeking a clean, unmistakably Japanese souvenir tattoo. Its movement and simplicity make it instantly readable, and it pairs naturally with motifs like koi, samurai silhouettes, and ink-wash textures without feeling busy.

Because the circle acts as a frame, these designs stay balanced at any size and fit comfortably on the arm, shoulder, or back. For many visitors, this combination becomes a compact, meaningful reminder of their trip—easy to personalize, easy to place, and unmistakably connected to Japan.

Stamp-Style Japanese Souvenir Tattoos

Stamp-style tattoos have become a favorite among travelers who want a small, playful way to remember their time in Japan. The frame itself already feels like a “keepsake,” and it works beautifully with Osaka-themed icons, Japanese flowers, traditional buildings, or even simple minimalist line designs. Whether you prefer clean black lines or full color inspired by vintage postage, the format naturally gives the tattoo a nostalgic, travel-like mood.

Because the stamp border acts as a ready-made composition, you can fill it with anything—local food, landscapes, seasonal flowers, or personal memories from your trip. Some guests choose a very minimal look, while others enjoy a detailed illustration inside the frame. Both styles stay compact, readable, and easy to place on the arm, thigh, or ankle. For many visitors, these tiny “postage” tattoos become a charming, wearable postcard from Japan.

Samurai-Inspired Japanese Souvenir Tattoos

Samurai imagery has become one of the most requested themes among travelers looking for a bold, instantly recognizable piece of Japanese culture. The combination of flowing fabric, traditional straw hats, and dynamic sword poses gives these designs a sense of movement that stands out even at small and medium sizes. Many guests pair their samurai with elements like torii gates, castles, brush-stroke ink, or simple lettering to anchor the piece to a specific place or memory from their trip.

Because the motif is both iconic and flexible, it works well in black-and-gray shading or a cleaner line-art style. Whether you want something dramatic or something minimal, the silhouette of a samurai carries a strong “Japanese feeling” without relying on any specific character or franchise. For many visitors, it becomes a powerful souvenir—something that captures the spirit of their time in Japan in a single, striking image.

Katana Motifs for Japanese Souvenir Tattoos

Katana tattoos remain a popular choice among visitors who want something slim, clean, and unmistakably Japanese. Because the blade itself is long and elegant, it fits naturally on narrow areas like the forearm or outer arm, making it an easy option for travelers who prefer a compact design. Many guests combine the katana with cherry blossoms, red sun motifs, or simple kanji to give the piece a soft or symbolic tone without overwhelming the shape of the sword.

The appeal comes from its balance: minimal enough to stay subtle, but iconic enough that it instantly reads as Japanese culture. Whether done in fine-line black work or paired with light color, katana tattoos feel modern and traditional at the same time—making them a versatile souvenir for anyone wanting a clean, stylish reminder of their trip.

Yin–Yang Koi Motifs

Yin–yang koi designs are one of the most requested Japanese-inspired motifs among travelers. The two fish circling each other naturally create the balance of light and dark, motion and stillness—making the symbol easy to understand even without knowing the deeper meaning. The flowing fins give the tattoo a soft, elegant movement, and the motif works in both minimal linework or more detailed shading. Because the shape is circular and dynamic, it fits well on almost any placement: arm, calf, thigh, or even the upper back.

Traditionally, koi in a yin–yang formation represent harmony, duality, and the balance between opposing forces. In Japanese and Chinese folklore, koi also symbolize strength, good fortune, and perseverance—so the motif carries cultural meaning while still feeling modern and stylish. For many visitors, it becomes a personal yet universally readable souvenir from their trip.

Hokusai Wave Motifs

Hokusai-inspired waves are one of the most recognizable Japanese icons, and travelers often choose them for their clean silhouette and instantly readable cultural feel. In color, the motif becomes cute and minimal—almost like a small pictogram of Japan—while black and gray gives it a more classical, print-like impression. The simple curves make the design easy to shrink down, so it works well even as a small souvenir tattoo.

These waves also pair beautifully with other symbols such as a red sun, torii gate, or circular frame. Even tiny additions can shift the mood from modern and poppy to traditional and atmospheric. Because the motif stays balanced and symmetrical, it fits comfortably on the arm, leg, or ankle, making it a flexible choice for visitors who want a compact but unmistakably Japanese tattoo.

Sakura Motifs

Sakura tattoos are especially popular among visitors who come to Japan during cherry blossom season. The motif works beautifully across styles—soft, watercolor-like petals for a gentle look, or more realistic shading for a classic floral piece. Even a small cluster of blossoms creates a clear “Japanese spring” feeling, which is why many travelers choose it as a subtle souvenir of their hanami experience.

Because sakura branches curve naturally, the design fits almost anywhere: ribs, collarbone, forearm, or ankle. A single blossom, a drifting petal, or a short branch can all stand alone as elegant one-point pieces. Sakura also pairs well with traditional Japanese elements, making it a versatile and timeless motif that stays popular across all genders and styles.

Origami Crane Motifs

Origami cranes are a beloved symbol for travelers who want something gentle, poetic, and unmistakably Japanese. The folded-paper shape has a clean geometry that works beautifully in tattoo form, and it becomes even more expressive when paired with floral details or traditional patterns. Many guests choose to place sakura, peonies, or soft leaves around the crane, giving the design a calm, elegant feel without overwhelming the origami silhouette.

Another popular approach is adding a pattern inside the crane—Hokusai waves, subtle textures, or Japanese textile motifs. This turns the origami figure into a tiny canvas that reflects the guest’s trip in a more personal way. Because the crane shape is compact and symmetrical, it fits well on the arm, ankle, or ribs, making it a versatile souvenir that balances minimal style with rich Japanese meaning.

Sakura Motifs

Sakura tattoos are especially popular among visitors who come to Japan during cherry blossom season. The motif works beautifully across styles—soft, watercolor-like petals for a gentle look, or more realistic shading for a classic floral piece. Even a small cluster of blossoms creates a clear “Japanese spring” feeling, which is why many travelers choose it as a subtle souvenir of their hanami experience.

Because sakura branches curve naturally, the design fits almost anywhere: ribs, collarbone, forearm, or ankle. A single blossom, a drifting petal, or a short branch can all stand alone as elegant one-point pieces. Sakura also pairs well with traditional Japanese elements, making it a versatile and timeless motif that stays popular across all genders and styles.

Maple Leaf Motifs

Maple leaves become especially popular in the autumn season, chosen by visitors who want a simple, elegant way to mark their trip to Japan. The sharp, star-like shape works beautifully in both fine-line and soft shading styles, and the leaves can be arranged to “flow” along the body for a natural, airy look. Even a small cluster captures the atmosphere of Japanese fall, making it an easy, understated souvenir tattoo that fits well on the ribs, collarbone, or arm.

Mount Fuji Motifs

Mount Fuji designs are a timeless favorite for travelers looking for a clean, iconic symbol of Japan. The mountain’s triangular silhouette works beautifully in minimal linework, while soft shading or added color gives it a more atmospheric feel. Pairing Fuji with a red sun, a torii gate, or even a rising-sun style backdrop adds instant “postcard” energy, making the piece feel like a compact snapshot of a Japan trip.

Minimal or colorful, Fuji remains unmistakable—and because the shape is simple and centered, it fits easily on the arm, ankle, or calf without losing clarity. It’s one of those motifs where even a very small tattoo carries a strong sense of place and memory.

Fox Mask (Kitsune Mask) Motifs

Fox masks—kitsune masks—are a classic Japanese symbol tied to Shinto folklore and festivals. Traditionally, kitsune are seen as messengers of Inari, the deity of prosperity, good harvest, and protection. Because of that, the mask can represent luck, guidance, transformation, or a playful, mysterious spirit. Even for travelers unfamiliar with the mythology, the red-and-white color scheme and sharp silhouette make the motif instantly recognizable as “Japanese.”

Design-wise, the range is wide: tiny, cute versions; bold masks paired with flowers or katana; or postcard-sized pieces with more dramatic shading. The mask’s shape is clean and adaptable, so it works well on the arm, thigh, or calf. A small one feels stylish and modern, while a larger version can lean more traditional—making kitsune masks a flexible and meaningful souvenir tattoo for visitors.

Hannya Mask Motifs

Hannya masks are one of the most iconic motifs in Japanese tattoo culture, recognized instantly for their dramatic expression and sharp horns. Originally from Noh theater, the mask represents deep emotion—anger, jealousy, sorrow—and at the same time is believed to ward off evil and protect the wearer. For many travelers, the bold look and strong cultural roots make it a standout choice, even in small sizes.

Design-wise, Hannya works at almost any scale: a tiny black-and-gray version looks clean and graphic, while a larger, colorful piece lets the artist push expression, shading, and texture. And of course, full backpieces are absolutely welcome too — just saying. 😉

Whether minimal or bold, the Hannya mask remains a powerful, flexible souvenir motif for anyone wanting something unmistakably Japanese.

Torii Gate Motifs

Torii gates are a favorite among travelers who want a small, clear symbol of their visit to a Japanese shrine. The simple silhouette reads instantly—even in tiny red linework—and can stand alone as a minimal souvenir or become the center of a larger, atmospheric scene. Many guests choose to pair the torii with a rising sun, waves, sakura, or even playful characters, creating a design that feels personal while still rooted in Japanese tradition.

Because the shape is strong and symmetrical, it works well in both clean black ink and bright red. You can build an entire motif around the gate, or simply add it as a plus-one element to something you already want tattooed. It’s a versatile, friendly symbol that brings a hint of shrine culture to any placement.

Bonsai Motifs

Bonsai tattoos appeal to travelers who like something calm, artistic, and unmistakably Japanese—but with a modern twist. Rather than going full-realistic with bright greens, many people prefer a more designed, stylized approach: simplified foliage, graphic shading, or a pot with traditional patterns. These choices make the tattoo feel cleaner on the skin and help the silhouette stand out, even at small sizes.

The first design here is actually one of our original flash pieces—compact, bold, and easy to place on the arm or leg. More detailed versions work beautifully too, especially when focusing on the trunk’s curves and the soft, cloud-like foliage that bonsai are known for. It’s a quiet but characterful motif that turns into a surprisingly striking souvenir.

Goldfish Motifs

Goldfish tattoos are a light, playful alternative to koi, and they’re especially popular as small one-point souvenirs. The round eyes, soft shapes, and flowing fins give goldfish a friendly, approachable feel—perfect for travelers who want something Japanese without going full traditional. The first design here uses bold black shading and pops of red for a classic-yet-cute look that stands out even in a compact size.

The second piece is an origami-style goldfish from Horihina’s flash collection. This folded-paper approach gives the fish a geometric, graphic edge while still keeping the movement and charm of a goldfish. It’s a great choice for guests who want something unique to Good Times Ink—modern, stylish, and unmistakably Japanese.

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Anime and Kanji as Japanese Souvenir Tattoos

Not every Japanese souvenir tattoo has to be a landscape or object. For many travelers, their strongest connection to Japan comes from anime or from Japanese words they love.

At Good Times Ink, we see anime and kanji as equally valid ways to carry your Japan story home—especially when they’re done with care for culture and meaning.

For Anime Fans: Japan Anime Tattoo Guide in Osaka

If anime brought you to Japan, it’s natural to want an anime‑inspired souvenir tattoo. Maybe it’s:

• A character who helped you through a tough time
• A symbol or item from your favorite series
• A subtle reference that only other fans will notice

There are also practical questions: copyright, style (manga‑like vs. realistic), placement, and how these designs age on skin.

For all of that, we recommend reading our dedicated guide:

The Complete Japan Anime Tattoo Guide — Cultural Icons for Travelers in Osaka
👉 Japan Anime Tattoo guide in Osaka

That article dives into series‑specific ideas and shows how we handle anime tattoos for travelers in our Osaka studio.

For Word Lovers: Kanji Tattoo Meanings and Ideas

Maybe images are not your thing, and a Japanese word tattoo feels better. Popular choices include:

• Words about travel and journey
• Concepts like wabi‑sabi or ikigai
• Ideas like strength, family, connection, or resilience

Kanji tattoos are beautiful, but they must be checked carefully so they read naturally to Japanese people. In our kanji guide, we explain how we:

• Confirm the correct characters, readings, and nuance
• Choose script styles (kaisho, gyosho, sosho, tensho) to match the feeling
• Avoid strange combinations and machine‑translation mistakes (GOOD TIMES INK)

You can read more here:

Kanji Tattoos in Osaka: Meanings, Scripts & 20 Ideas
👉 Kanji Tattoos in Osaka

Many travelers combine a small motif (like a wave or flower) with a kanji word for a complete Japanese souvenir tattoo.

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Placement and Size Ideas for Japan Travel Tattoos

Your Japanese souvenir tattoo doesn’t have to be big to be meaningful. Here are some common patterns we see with travelers.

Small and Subtle Japan Trip Tattoos You Can Hide Easily

If you want something low‑key and work‑friendly:

• Inside wrist or forearm
• Side of the wrist
• Ankle or side of the foot
• Behind the ear or on the upper back, near the shoulder

Good small ideas:

• Tiny ensō
• Small cherry blossom or maple leaf
• Mini origami crane
• Simple stamp‑style design with a date or place

These are easy to cover, but still visible to you and your close friends.

Medium Pieces That Tell a Clear Travel Story

Medium‑sized pieces often go on:

• Outer forearm or inner forearm
• Upper arm
• Calf

At this size, you can combine elements, for example:

• Mt. Fuji + rising sun + waves
• Koi and water with a small maple leaf
• Fox mask and torii gate

This is a good balance if you want a souvenir tattoo that is clearly Japanese but not a full sleeve.

Larger Japanese Souvenir Tattoos for Big Memories

If this trip is a major life event, you might want a larger piece on:

• Thigh
• Back
• Full upper arm or half‑sleeve

For bigger sizes, we can:

• Build a scene with waves, koi, flowers, clouds, and more
• Combine multiple memories from different cities
• Plan a design you can add to on your next trip to Japan

In your consultation, we’ll talk honestly about how much detail fits each size so your tattoo stays readable as it ages.

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From Flash to Custom: Ways to Get a Japanese Souvenir Tattoo at Good Times Ink

There isn’t just one way to get a Japanese souvenir tattoo at our studio. Depending on your schedule and budget, you can choose from Today’s Flash, custom designs, or larger projects.

Today’s Flash: Same-Day Japanese Souvenir Tattoos

Flash tattoos are pre‑designed pieces available for a limited time or on specific days. Good Times Ink has a physical “Today’s Flash” board in the studio and an online page where you can see current designs. (GOOD TIMES INK)

For travelers, Today’s Flash is very convenient:

• You see the actual design before you book
• Prices and sizes are clear
• Many designs are perfect as Japanese souvenir tattoos (waves, flowers, masks, etc.)
• Same‑day or short‑notice bookings are often possible

You can check the latest options here:
👉 Today’s Flash

Custom Designs and Style Matching from Our Tattoos Gallery

If you want something fully custom:

1. Look through our Tattoos gallery to find artists and styles you like. (GOOD TIMES INK)
2. Save pieces that feel close to your idea (line weight, shading, color, style).
3. Use the Contact page to send us:
   • Your idea in simple words
   • Reference images from your trip
   • Photos or links from our gallery
   • Your preferred artist, if you have one (GOOD TIMES INK)

We then suggest an artist and approach that match your story and body placement.

👉 Tattoos page

Planning Larger Tattoo Projects During a Longer Stay in Japan

If you’re staying in Japan for a longer period (study abroad, work, long vacation) and want a larger piece:

• Let us know your available dates and how long you can sit each session when you fill out the contact form. (GOOD TIMES INK)
• Tell us if you might return to Japan in the future so we can design something that can grow over time.
• We’ll explain the deposit, session schedule, and what is realistic during your stay. (GOOD TIMES INK)

Large projects need planning, but they also make for a very deep souvenir of your time in Japan.

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How to Book Your Japanese Souvenir Tattoo in Osaka

All booking for tattoo and consultation goes through our online form:

👉 Contact page

Here’s how to make it easy for yourself and for us.

What to Prepare Before You Use the Contact Form

Before you open the form, it helps to have:

• Your travel dates and which days you’ll be in Osaka
• A rough idea of design / motif (for example, “Mt. Fuji + wave”, “fox mask”, “koi & maple leaves”, “kanji ‘travel’”)
• Your size category (coin‑size, business‑card‑size, postcard‑size, or larger) (GOOD TIMES INK)
• Preferred placement (forearm, ankle, upper arm, etc.)
• Any reference images (your photos, screenshots, drawings)

You don’t need a full sketch. Simple notes are fine as long as they show what you want to remember from your trip.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Good Times Ink Contact Page

On the Contact page, you’ll see two main sections. The first is for Booking Tattoo & Consultation. (GOOD TIMES INK)

Key fields:

• Customer Information
  • Name, age, gender (or “prefer not to say”)
  • Email address
  • Residency status: Tourist (Visiting Japan), Resident, or Other
• Available Dates
  • “From” and “Until” for when you can visit Osaka
• Tattoo Preferences
  • Design / style (for example, “small Japanese souvenir tattoo of Mt. Fuji and wave”)
  • Size (choose from the given size list)
  • Color (black & grey, color, not sure)
  • Placement (body part)
  • Additional details (anything special about your story or schedule)
  • Reference images (upload photos or screenshots)
  • Preferred artist (if you already know who you like) (GOOD TIMES INK)

There is also a general inquiries section lower on the page if you just have questions.

Booking Timing, Deposits, and Trip-Schedule Tips

When you submit the form, you confirm that you agree to our booking rules: (GOOD TIMES INK)

• You must be 18 years or older
• A deposit is required to secure your appointment
• You can reschedule up to 3 days in advance without losing your deposit
• Cancellations, no‑shows, or late arrivals may cause you to lose your deposit
• Designs are shown and finalized on the day of your appointment
• You’ll sign a consent form and show a valid ID (passport, residence card, or driver’s license)

Trip scheduling tips:

• Try to keep at least one or two “flex days” in Osaka in case we need to adjust your appointment time.
• Avoid planning a long tattoo session right before a big hike, heavy drinking night, or early morning flight.
• If you want to visit onsen or pools, it’s usually best to do those before your tattoo, or after it has fully healed. (We’ll talk more about this in the FAQ.)

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FAQ: Japanese Souvenir Tattoos and Tattoo Etiquette in Japan

Here are some common questions travelers ask us.

Can I Get a Tattoo in Japan as a Tourist?

Yes. Tattoos are legal in Japan, and tourists can get tattooed.

At Good Times Ink:

• We welcome both tourists and residents (the contact form even asks about your residency status). (GOOD TIMES INK)
• You must be 18+ and bring valid ID (passport, residence card, or driver’s license). (GOOD TIMES INK)

As long as you follow local laws and our studio rules, there is no problem getting a Japanese souvenir tattoo while you are visiting.

Onsens, Gyms, and Pools: What to Know with a New Tattoo

There are two different issues here:

1. Healing / health
   • A fresh tattoo is an open wound. Most tattoo and medical sources say you should avoid soaking it in pools, hot tubs, or the ocean until it has healed—often 2–4 weeks, depending on size and placement. (SwimRight Academy)
   • Too much water, chlorine, or hot baths can cause infection or fade the ink. Always follow the aftercare instructions your artist gives you.
2. Japanese facility rules
   • Some onsen, public baths, gyms, and pools in Japan still have rules against visible tattoos, because of a historical link with organized crime. (Japan Travel)
   • Other places are more flexible, especially in tourist areas or if you use a private onsen or cover small tattoos with a sticker.

So, for your trip:

• Plan any big onsen experiences before your tattoo session, or after it has healed.
• Check the rules of each onsen or facility in advance.
• Don’t submerge a fresh tattoo in water, even if tattoos are allowed.

We’re happy to talk about timing when you book so you can enjoy both onsen and your new tattoo safely.

Age Limit, Payment, and Language Support at Good Times Ink

Age limit:
We only tattoo clients who are 18 years or older, and we ask for photo ID at the studio. (GOOD TIMES INK)

Deposit and policy:
A deposit is needed to secure your appointment. You can reschedule up to three days before your session without losing it, but late changes, cancellations, or no‑shows may result in losing the deposit. (GOOD TIMES INK)

Payment:
Payment options can change, so the safest thing is to ask us in your email or contact form reply. That way you know exactly what to bring on the day.

Language support:
Our team can support you in English and Japanese, and we are used to working with overseas visitors. (GOOD TIMES INK)

You don’t need perfect English or Japanese—simple sentences and reference images are totally fine.

Can I Bring My Own Design or Reference Photos?

Yes, please do.

On the Contact page, there is a field for Reference Images. You can upload: (GOOD TIMES INK)

• Photos from your trip (a shrine gate, street scene, garden, etc.)
• Screenshots of motifs you like
• Sketches or mood boards

We will not copy another tattoo line‑for‑line, but we can:

• Use your references as inspiration
• Adjust motifs to fit Japanese culture and tattoo rules
• Combine elements into one clear, original Japanese souvenir tattoo design

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Summary: Take Home a Story, Not Just a Souvenir

A Japanese souvenir tattoo is more than a design. It’s:

• Your Japan story, chosen carefully
• A piece made by artists who live with these motifs and meanings every day
• A memory of your time in Osaka and Ame‑mura, at a studio that welcomes travelers

Whether you choose a tiny cherry blossom, a bold wave, a fox mask, or a kanji word, the goal is the same: a tattoo that still makes sense—and still feels good—many years after your trip.

If you’re already thinking, “This is the memory I want on my skin,” the next step is simple:

👉 Send us your idea through the Contact page,
👉 Browse the Tattoos page and Today’s Flash for inspiration,
and we’ll help you turn your Japan trip into a tattoo you’ll be proud to wear.