Tokyo Tattoo 1970: A Glimpse into the Secret World of Traditional Japanese Tattooing

In 1970, photographer Martha Cooper arrived in Tokyo and found herself captivated by the art of traditional Japanese tattooing. Her journey led her to Horibun I, a master tattooist working in a small, secluded studio. In an era when tattooing was a secretive craft reserved for a distinguished few, Horibun welcomed Cooper into his world, allowing her to document his artistry and the stories behind it.

Horibun I practiced the ancient method of tebori—hand-poked tattooing using sticks bound with needles, carefully dipped into colored inks. His intricate designs drew inspiration from traditional Japanese legends, each piece telling a story of heritage and craftsmanship.

What makes Tokyo Tattoo 1970 truly unique is the rare opportunity it offers to witness this hidden art form. Cooper’s intimate photographs capture Horibun at work, his clients proudly displaying their finished tattoos, and the master embarking on a pilgrimage to a sacred Shinto shrine. The images showcase both the process and the enduring beauty of motifs from a bygone era.

This book not only honors the legacy of Horibun I but also marks the beginning of Martha Cooper's career documenting subcultures—a path that would later lead her to New York City’s graffiti and street art scenes. Tokyo Tattoo 1970 is more than just a book; it’s a visual tribute to a master artist and a pivotal moment in tattoo history.