What we would like to share here is an exchange with a client living in Japan, for whom we created a kanji tattoo artwork featuring the single character “Rei” (礼).
Customer testimonials
AnonymousI had decided for some time that I wanted to have this single character, “Rei,” tattooed.
However, I struggled to find a clear answer as to where it should be done and what style of lettering would truly feel right. For nearly six months, I continued to imagine it, searching online and reflecting on it again and again.
Then, quite unexpectedly, I came across Madara’s website. I was deeply moved.
As I read through the site, I felt that he truly understood the feelings of those who wish to have a kanji tattoo. At that moment, I sensed a genuine connection and decided to reach out and apply that very day.
From the very first consultation, Madara treated me with the care and presence of a mentor.
I still remember how reading his emails—gentle yet dignified in tone—quietly warmed my heart.
I wanted to convey what was inside me and have my feelings reflected in the artwork.
That wish was given form through Madara’s calligraphy.
The completed work was then carefully transferred onto my skin by the tattoo artist, Moeka, preserving the original form exactly as it was.
This quiet, single character is not something I show to others, but it now lives within my chest as a protective talisman—a vow to live with strength and kindness, and to remain true to that path.
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Madara for his talent, and to Moeka for her technique, both of which fulfilled the expectations I held
with such anticipation.
Thank you very much. I will continue to do my best.
Produced by MADARA
This client did not choose a kanji tattoo to show to others.
Instead, they chose this form as a way to engrave, within their own body, a vow they never wish to forget throughout their life.
The character they chose was “Rei” (礼).
Beyond its surface meaning of manners or etiquette, Rei represents respect toward the most precious person closest to oneself, as well as the inner discipline to continue holding oneself accountable. It is a single character that embodies one’s way of living.
In creating this piece, great care was taken to ensure that the character would not become mere decoration, and that its meaning would not fade over time. While carefully listening to the client’s thoughts and intentions, the work was written using Hisseki-jutsu calligraphy, with each stroke infused with purpose.
Applying a tattoo
After the artwork was completed, the client searched for a tattoo studio on their own.
The studio they chose was Stroker Tattoo Yokohama.
At this studio, the tattoo was handled by MOEKA, a tattoo artist who carefully respected even the finest details of the character from their very first meeting.
During the actual tattooing process, we were told that the work was completed with exceptional care, honoring the strength and subtlety of the brushstrokes as well as the balance of negative space present in the original calligraphy.
The one who writes, and the one who engraves.
Though their roles are different, both shared the same attitude: never treating lightly the meaning contained within a single character.
As the calligrapher, I am deeply grateful that this shared respect was present throughout the process.
Later, the client shared the following reflections:
- Being able to return to their original resolve every time they look at the character
- Having no regret about this decision
- Feeling that a personal foundation for living with care and intention now exists within their own body
These were not the words of a typical review or testimonial, but reflections spoken from the client’s lived experience.
At KANJI TOKYO, we do not regard kanji tattoos as “designs” or “trends.”
We see them as quiet companions that walk alongside one’s life.
This case reminded us once again that such a form can only come into being when the writer, the tattoo artist, and the individual themselves engage with one another in mutual respect.
This article is published with the client’s consent and with the approval of Stroker Tattoo Yokohama.
It is presented anonymously and features the artwork only.
Hoka no okyakusama no koe wa kochira11
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