Japanese Tattoos
Irezumi-inspired koi, dragons, hannya and full-body storytelling — built to age beautifully.
Japanese tattooing is where Carlos Barrera's work is most at home. Drawing on the visual language of traditional irezumi — koi, dragons, hannya masks, tigers, waves and wind bars — he designs pieces that flow with the body and read clearly from across a room.
Every Japanese piece is custom drawn for your anatomy. Backgrounds connect the imagery, bold linework anchors it, and considered shading ensures the tattoo still looks powerful decades from now.
Selected Japanese Tattoos
How Carlos works in this style
Built for the body
Sleeves, back pieces and panels designed around your muscle structure and movement — never copied from flash.
Traditional imagery
Koi, dragons, hannya, tigers, peonies and cherry blossoms composed with classical background elements.
Made to last
Bold lines and smoke-and-wave shading chosen specifically for how Japanese work heals and ages.
Japanese Tattoos — FAQ
How long does a Japanese sleeve take?
A full Japanese sleeve is typically completed over multiple sessions spread across several months, depending on size, detail and how you heal. We map the full design first so every session builds toward the finished piece.
Do you design custom Japanese tattoos or use flash?
Every Japanese piece is custom designed for you. We start with a consultation about the imagery and meaning you want, then I compose it specifically for your body.
Can you continue or rework an existing Japanese piece?
Often, yes. Bring photos of the existing work to your consultation and I'll tell you honestly what's possible — whether that's extending it, reworking it, or building a cover-up around it.
More styles by Carlos
Ready to start your japanese piece?
Free consultation, in person or remote. Based at Koi Dragon Tattoos in Murray, Utah — booking clients worldwide.