The reason for this lies in the long tattoo history in Japan where tattoos were primarily worn by Yakuza and other gang- and mafia-related people. The Yakuza are still powerful in Japan, and their impact isn’t ceasing or diminishing. That is why anyone with a tattoo is considered potentially dangerous, hence the prohibitions.

Read More: Are Tattoos Illegal in Japan? (A Guide to Visiting Japan With Tattoos)

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European Countries

All over Europe, tattoos are pretty popular and common among all generations and ages. However, in certain countries, particular tattoo designs are forbidden and can get you deported or thrown into jail. For example;

• Germany – tattoos depicting Fascist or Nazi symbolism and themes are banned and can get you punished and banned from the country
• France – just like Germany, France finds tattoos with Fascist and Nazi symbolism, or offensive political themes, unacceptable and bans such designs
• Denmark – in Denmark it is forbidden to get a tattoo on the face, head, neck, or hands. However, it was believed that the Liberal party in this country would impose changes regarding the prohibition under the claim that every individual has a right to decide where they want to get a tattoo. That was in 2014, and unfortunately, the law still hasn’t changed.
• Turkey – in the past few years, Turkey has introduced a set of strict laws against tattoos. There is a ban on tattoos in schools and colleges, and the overall education system, despite their populary among the youth in Turkey. The reason for this ban is the Islamist AK Party governemnt, that is imposing religious and traditional practices and laws.

Things To Do To Avoid Trouble

As an individual, all you can do is get educated and respect other countries’ laws. You must be aware of the things a certain country is sensitive to, especially the country’s law, which could get you in serious trouble.