The Japanese Tattoo Design Handbook, Vol. I [Paperback]

Cocoro Books (Compiler), Steve Walsh (Introduction)

Book Description

Publication Date: March 25, 2008

Tattooing in Japan goes back to the dawn of the nation's history. The ancient Chinese text Wei Zi of 297 AD relates that all the men of the land of Wa (Japan) wore tattoos on their faces and bodies. What began as talismanic markings used as protection against harm eventually became the decorative tattoos known as horimono. Today, the techniques and designs used in Japanese tattoos are acclaimed worldwide. In this first of two volumes presenting the work of some of Japan's leading horishi, or tattoo artists, The Japanese Tattoo Design Handbook Vol. 1 introduces over 80 on-skin designs from five masters that blend traditional and modern techniques. Fans of body art and tattooists alike will find this both an invaluable sourcebook and a fascinating first-time collection of ink design.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Cocoro Books is an imprint of Tokyo-based DH Publishing. Cocoro Books titles cover a wide range of themes, including cosplay, ninja, movies, manga, anime, cuisine, tattoos, nightlife and J-pop.

Product Details

• Paperback: 80 pages
• Publisher: DH Publishing, Inc. (March 25, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1932897488
• ISBN-13: 978-1932897487
• Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.9 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 7 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 3.3 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #878,130 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

DH Publishing is Tokyo's #1 publisher of Japanese pop culture books for the English speaking world. DH Publishing's goal is to introduce non-Japanese readers to the many facets of Japan's vibrant pop and underground cultures.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Good reference, September 10, 2008

By 

Ramsey Hong (Las Vegas, NV United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Japanese Tattoo Design Handbook, Vol. I (Paperback)

I was surprised by the thinness of the book, but it IS full of good photography. I'm always seeking good photo reference for "traditional" Japanese tattoos, so I consider this a good buy. Some of the photography needs work, but overall this is a book full of clear detailed photos of some nice "traditional" Japanese tattoos. I put "traditional" in quotes because some of the tattoos featured in this book have elements I don't think are considered strictly traditional, but stylistically many of them are still rendered in a traditional style. Nonetheless, if you are looking for a useful reference book of Japanese style tattoo work and are getting frustrated with not finding anything good at your local bookstore, this would be a satisfactory choice.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars A perfect resource for those interested in Japanese tattoos and for tattoo artist's who need a pictorial source for ideas, August 8, 2008

By 

Dennis A. Amith (kndy) (California) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)    (TOP 50 REVIEWER)   

This review is from: The Japanese Tattoo Design Handbook, Vol. I (Paperback)

With "The Japanese Tattoo Design Handbook Vol. 1', Cocoro Books/DHP Publishing showcases the new generation of tattoo artists in Japan: Back in Black's Hiro, Hori Toshi Family's Hori no Suke, Sangenjaya's Hori Taku, 56 Tattoo Studio's Hori Masa and Tattoo Church's Carlos.

With a two-page introduction by freelance writer Steven Walsh on Japanese tattoos, the book is filled with full page photos of tattoo design by these artists.

The book doesn't try to be what the other Japanese tattoo design books out there by documenting the history or even detail procedures of an artist. Its primary goal is to show off the works of the artists showcasing traditional and modern design. It's straight-forward and for those wanting images, this book is primarily showcasing the tattoos from the upper half of the body, to some full body shots.

The tattoo designs by these artists range from complex, intricate, dark, colorful and beautiful. I was very impressed by the talent of the five artists featured in this book

"The Japanese Tattoo Design Handbook Vol. 1' is a perfect resource for those interested in Japanese tattoos and a solid resource for those who need inspiration for their own design through the many photos featured in this book.

Similar to other books released by Cocoro/DHP, included is a cardboard slipcase where the book can be placed in.

And for those seeking an inexpensive resource of high quality photography featuring Japanese tattoo design, you really can't go wrong with this book.

4.0 out of 5 stars small but good, March 10, 2010

By 

N. Mensinga "slicknick" (holland) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: The Japanese Tattoo Design Handbook, Vol. I (Paperback)

got this when it came out. was a bit disappointed with the size of it. but it was pretty cheap and the stuff in it is amazing. so if you have the chance to buy it, do it!
i'm still waiting for volume 2,...but if that's ever gonna happen......