Character and meaning
A single kanji, a compound word, a katakana name, and a full phrase each require different checks. Bring the intended meaning in plain English.
Kanji and Japanese lettering · Ueno
Kanji Tattoo in Tokyo
Japanese lettering planned around meaning, readable character forms, placement, and the line weight needed to age clearly.
Estimated amount from ¥15,000Size-based guide, not a flat rate
3-14-1 Ueno, 6FTaito-ku, Tokyo 110-0005
Walk-ins welcomeMessage us on WhatsApp
Design approach
Start with the meaning, not an online translation
A kanji tattoo can fail even when every character exists. Character choice, word order, nuance, and cultural association all matter, and a phrase that looks concise in English may feel unnatural when translated literally into Japanese.
Tell us the idea you want the tattoo to carry rather than arriving with only machine-translated characters. During consultation we discuss the meaning, letterforms, reading, and placement before the design is tattooed — in English, with our Japanese artists.
Katakana names are welcome too: you can ask about your own name or a family member's name written in katakana. You can compare real examples below — a katakana name on the ankle and five kanji along the forearm — before deciding on letterforms.
Translation note: consultation reduces the risk of an awkward tattoo, but some names and ideas do not have a single exact kanji equivalent. When several readings are possible, we explain the trade-off instead of pretending there is one automatic answer.
Before you book
Three choices that change a lettering tattoo
Letterform
Block, brush-inspired, vertical, and restrained modern lettering create different impressions. Readability comes before decorative distortion.
Size and placement
Fine internal gaps can close as skin ages. We will recommend enough size and spacing for the chosen characters and body area.
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 →
Leo / リオ
I specialize in delicate, soft designs centered on fine line work. I value sharing accurate knowledge from a medical perspective, and I put as much care into a safe, reassuring experience as into the design itself. In counseling I aim for a relaxed atmosphere that's easy to talk in. I explain every concern carefully so even first-timers can feel at ease, offering tattooing that stays close to each person.
Meet Leo →
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 →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
A practical Tokyo souvenir, without rushing the language
Kanji and short lettering can often be completed within a visitor's schedule, but meaning confirmation should happen before the appointment. Send the exact idea, preferred placement, approximate size, and Tokyo dates when booking.
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
Kanji Tattoo in Tokyo FAQ
Can you translate an English word into kanji?
We can discuss the intended meaning and possible Japanese character choices. Some words and names have several options or no exact kanji equivalent, so context is essential.
Can I get my name written in katakana?
Yes — you can discuss a katakana name design with us. Our Japanese artists discuss the reading, character balance, and placement with you in English, and you can review real lettering examples in our portfolio before deciding.
How small can a kanji tattoo be?
It depends on the number of strokes and the placement. A simple single character may fit the Mini or Small category, while dense characters need more space to remain readable.
Can I use a handwritten calligraphy reference?
Yes. Bring the original reference and permission to use it where relevant. We may adjust spacing or line weight so the lettering works safely as a tattoo.
What does a small kanji tattoo cost?
The current estimates are ¥15,000 for Mini and ¥30,000 for Small. They are not flat rates; final dimensions, detail, and placement determine the quote.
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.
Walk-ins welcome. Message us on WhatsApp to check availability or discuss your tattoo before you visit.
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