What is Irezumi?

Irezumi is the traditional Japanese art of tattooing by hand or machine, rooted in centuries of history. It features iconic imagery — dragons (ryu), phoenixes (hoo), koi fish, hannya masks, cherry blossoms (sakura), peonies (botan), and warriors from ukiyo-e woodblock prints. Each design carries deep symbolism and follows compositional rules passed down through generations of Japanese tattoo masters.

At Horiryu II Tattoo, we specialize in traditional Japanese tattoo (irezumi) and Asian tattoo styles. Every piece is custom-designed and executed with respect for the art form — from full sleeves and backpieces to smaller standalone works.

What We Offer

Full Arm Sleeves

Complete arm coverage from shoulder to wrist, incorporating multiple motifs into one cohesive composition.

Leg Sleeves

Full and half leg sleeves with traditional Japanese imagery flowing from hip to ankle.

Backpieces

Large-scale back tattoos — the pinnacle of irezumi. Full and partial back coverage with dramatic compositions.

Frontpieces

Chest panels, rib pieces, and munewari (front torso) work in the traditional Japanese bodysuit style.

Small Pieces

Standalone tattoos, flash designs, and smaller custom work. Perfect for your first Japanese tattoo or filling gaps in existing work.

The Process

Submit an Inquiry

Fill out our contact form with your tattoo ideas, references, and preferred placement. This is how every project begins.

We Reach Out

We'll contact you by email or phone — whichever you prefer — to discuss your idea and book an in-person consultation.

In-Person Consultation

Meet at the studio to go over sizing, placement, tracings, and design direction. We'll finalize your appointment date and handle all paperwork in person.

Custom Design

Your design is drawn before your appointment, but it's only revealed on the day of your session. This protects the artwork and lets us discuss any changes together in person — no screenshots to friends and family.

Tattoo Session

Appointment only. No walk-ins. Every client gets the time and attention their piece deserves. We work at a pace that prioritizes quality and your comfort.

Aftercare

Proper healing is everything. We'll walk you through aftercare instructions and recommend Lucky Paw Aftercare products to keep your tattoo looking its best for years to come.

Serving the Lower Mainland

Horiryu II Tattoo Inc. is a private, appointment-only studio in Vancouver, BC. Clients come from across the Lower Mainland including Burnaby, Richmond, Surrey, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, New Westminster, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, Delta, Langley, Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows, White Rock, Tsawwassen, Ladner, Anmore, and Belcarra.

We also regularly welcome clients traveling from across Canada and the Pacific Northwest for multi-session projects.

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