Soft grayscale
Diluted shading can suit portraits, illustrative subjects, and atmospheric work when enough scale is available.
Black and gray · blackwork · Ueno
Black and Gray Tattoo in Tokyo
From soft diluted shading to bold blackwork and negative space, composed around the contrast your subject and placement need.
Get tattooed today. Quick replies on WhatsApp.
Same-day sessions depend on artist availability, size, and design.
Estimated amount from ¥15,000Size-based guide, not a flat rate
3-14-1 Ueno, 6FTaito-ku, Tokyo 110-0005
Walk-ins welcomeMajor cards in studio · No tip required
Design approach
Black and gray and blackwork solve different problems
Black and gray uses black pigment at different values to build depth, atmosphere, and softer transitions. Blackwork relies more heavily on solid black, graphic shapes, line, and negative space. Many custom pieces use both approaches.
Reference images help establish the mood, but skin tone, placement, and scale influence the contrast plan. We identify the focal point first, then decide where detail, open skin, and strong black areas belong.
Cover-up note: not every existing tattoo can be hidden by simply adding darker ink. Send clear, unfiltered photos in natural light. The artist will assess whether a cover-up, rework, or different placement is realistic.
Before you book
Choose contrast for the subject, not a trend label
Bold blackwork
Solid shapes and negative space create a graphic result that can read clearly from a distance.
Japanese ink influence
Brush-like movement and neo-Japanese subjects can combine expressive black areas with open skin and body flow.
Portfolio
Examples from Evis Ink Tokyo
Artists
Find an artist for this direction
The live public roster is used when available. Review each profile, then choose an artist during online booking or ask us to help match the idea.
Manato / マナト
I work in a wide range of styles, from traditional to black & gray, lettering, and color. I love chatting with clients — though of course I'll match your pace. With my height and my many self-poked tattoos I may seem hard to approach at first, but I'm really just a tattoo-loving chatterbox, so let's get along. From classic styles to anything else, I'll keep working until you have a tattoo you're truly happy with.
Meet Manato →
Milan / ミラン
I specialize in blackwork — designs that combine strength and delicacy, expressed through the shades and lines of black alone. Because getting tattooed is at least a little nerve-racking for anyone, I focus on a relaxing space and careful consultation so you can let your shoulders drop. I stay close to those who feel anxious or worry about pain, and keep working until your lifelong piece feels right — shaping designs that bring out each person's individuality.
Meet Milan →
Hiko / 彦
I value sincerity above all. I feel Japanese tattoo culture is at a major turning point, and I would be glad to build new values and culture together through tattooing. My specialty is small Japanese-style pieces that subtly weave in a sense of "wa." Even within a small design I express Japanese beauty and individuality, shaping each piece carefully for each person.
Meet Hiko →Estimated price guide
Estimate the size category
These amounts are estimates, not flat rates. The artist confirms the final quote after reviewing the dimensions, detail, design, and placement, before tattooing.
| Category | Approximate size | Estimated amount | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mini | Up to 3 cm / about 1 in | Estimated ¥15,000 | A single small symbol, short lettering, or very simple one-point design. |
| Small | Up to 8 cm / about 3 in | Estimated ¥30,000 | A compact design around business-card size, depending on detail and placement. |
| Medium | Up to 15 cm / about 6 in | Estimated ¥50,000 | A more detailed piece for the upper arm, calf, shoulder blade, or thigh. |
| Large | Up to 20 cm / about 8 in | Estimated ¥80,000 | A larger composition for areas such as the upper arm, calf, thigh, or back. |
For international visitors
Allow enough session and recovery time
Dense blackwork and larger shaded pieces may take longer than a small outline tattoo and can feel more tender afterward. Tell us your flight date and itinerary so the proposed size and session plan are realistic.
Read before booking
Related studio guides
Guest experience
What international guests said
“I ended up deciding to get a tattoo the day before I left and not only were they able to fit me in, they also were able to get the design that I wanted done. Session lasted a few hours & they made sure I was comfortable & satisfied the entire time. I'll remember this forever, thank you!”
Matt A., Google Maps review
“Evis tattoo was very quick to respond to my inquiry on Instagram and they provided us with excellent service. The studio is very clean and beautiful! English friendly staff. We had a group of 4 people and they were able to accommodate us! Pricing was very reasonable and the artists are GREAT! 10/10 experience!”
Kerri R., Google Maps review
“Great staff. Everyone was very welcoming and even helped with proper translation of our tattoos. Tattoo was done perfectly and I love it. I would recommend them to anyone!”
Wade H., Google Maps review
“Staff were extremely nice and patient with me — I didn't speak Japanese and it was my first ever tattoo. I believe the quality is great and no regrets at all. Next time I get another tattoo, definitely coming back here.”
International guest, GetYourGuide review
FAQ
Black and Gray Tattoo in Tokyo FAQ
What is the difference between black and gray and blackwork?
Black and gray builds several values with black pigment and dilution. Blackwork emphasizes solid black, graphic shape, line, and negative space. A custom piece can combine both.
Can you cover an old tattoo with blackwork?
Sometimes, but feasibility depends on the old tattoo's size, darkness, color, and location. Send clear photos for an artist assessment before booking.
How much does a black and gray tattoo cost?
The size-based estimate begins at ¥15,000 for Mini. It is not a flat rate; detailed shading, size, design, and placement determine the final quote.
Can a tourist book a large black and gray piece?
Yes, when the design preparation, session time, and aftercare fit the trip. Larger or multi-session work should be arranged well before arrival.
Ueno studio
Visit Evis Ink Tokyo
Our full address is public so you can plan your route before booking. The studio is about a five-minute walk from JR Okachimachi Station and convenient from Ueno, Akihabara, Asakusa, and central Tokyo.
Come in today. Walk-ins welcome. Quick replies on WhatsApp for availability and design questions. Same-day sessions depend on artist availability, size, and design.
Address
Evis Ink Tokyo, 3-14-1 Ueno, 6F, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-0005, Japan
Appointment times vary · Check live availability · English and Japanese support