Japanese Tattoos in Honolulu, Hawaii

Japanese tattooing is built on bold outlines, flowing compositions and symbols with real meaning: koi, dragons, tigers, peonies, waves and more. Several Black Palette Tattoo & Piercing artists in Waikiki work in traditional and neo-Japanese styles, from a single piece to full sleeves and back pieces planned around your body.

Popular Japanese Tattoo Ideas

  • Koi fish and dragons

  • Tigers and snakes

  • Peonies, chrysanthemums and cherry blossoms

  • Hannya and other masks

  • Waves, clouds and wind bars as background flow

  • Sleeves, half sleeves and back pieces

Explore Other Tattoo Styles

Meet Our Japanese Tattoo Artists

Choosing Meaningful Imagery

Each Japanese motif carries its own symbolism, and how the elements are combined and placed matters. Tell your artist what you want the tattoo to say, and they will help you choose and arrange the imagery so it reads as one piece. If you have a personal or family connection to Japanese culture, share it at your consultation.

Japanese Tattoos in Hawaii

Large Japanese pieces are done in stages. If you're visiting, tell your artist how long you'll be in Hawaii so sessions can be planned around your trip. Cover new work from the sun while it heals and use sunscreen once it's healed.

Japanese Tattoo FAQ

How long does a Japanese sleeve take? Sleeves and back pieces are planned over multiple sessions. Your artist will estimate the time during a free consultation and may ask for a deposit.

Can I bring my own reference? Yes. Bring reference images and any meanings you want included, and your artist will turn them into a custom design.

Is Japanese tattooing done in color or black & grey? Both are common. Your artist will recommend what suits your design during your consultation.

Walk-ins welcome. Text (808) 649-2627 to check availability, or Request an Appointment.

Request An Appointment

Located in the
Heart of Waikiki

Black Palette Tattoo Studio is located on the 3rd Floor of Waikiki Shopping Plaza on Kalakaua Avenue. Our studio is a 5-10 minute walk from virtually all hotels in the area and even faster on a Biki! Waikiki Shopping Plaza offers convenient & affordable parking for residents and visitors staying outside of Waikiki.

Get Directions

What People Are Saying

“We went from a dinner conversation to let's get a tattoo. The four of us called and let them know we were all getting something and they were accommodating. We were welcomed warmly. They took time with us in designing our tattoos. Beautiful location. Everyone in there were very nice.”

— Maisha L.
Atlanta, Georgia | Review from Yelp.

“Black Palette Tattoo is so awesome. The artist here are super friendly and deliver quality work. I would definitely recommend anyone wanting to get a tattoo to get one from any of the artist here. The shop is very nice and is a great place to be. Highly recommend checking these guys out!!”

— Jordan M.
Honolulu, HI | Review from Yelp.

“"I had such an amazing time! My tattoo artist was Raquel and she was super kind and did great work! Everything was super sanitary and she made sure that I was comfortable. I really appreciated that she took great care of me and the guests I had with me. I love my tattoo so much! Totally recommend this shop and Raquel is a great tattoo artist."

— Kat Y.
Los Angeles, CA | Review from Yelp.