Best Minimalist Tattoos Düsseldorf Near Me

4worldlovers: IREZUMIYA ISHI is a Tattoo Studio in the heart of Düsseldorf dedicated to the art of HORIMONO – the traditional japanese Tattoos. We use the traditional japanese hand poking method called TEBORI. In our Studio you will find alot of traditional horimono designs as well as lots of information regarding this beautiful art. We have been tattooing for more than 25 years now and still loving what we do. Please be aware that we are not a „modern Tattoo Factory“, we do only custom work in japanese style and we do take alot of care and time by drawing for each costumer a unique design. You are always welcome to visit us (for a consultation appointment please give us a call first).

Hand poking in traditional Japanese style is less painful and not so traumatic to the skin than tattoo machines. Tebori has in Japan a long tradition and many great Master still using the traditional Tebori for creating their master pieces. Many years of practice and a lot of efforts are needed to master this tattoo technique and only those who really understand the traditional horimono world can also understand the significant and beauty of Tebori.

Even though tattoos in Japan were prohibited for centuries the traditional Japanese tattoo (horimono) flourished in the late Tokugawa period. Their shaddings, colors and designs flow over the body, often incorporating the wearers anatomy. The traditional designs are based on ukiyoe prints and have their own meanings. They should be appreciated and clearly recognized from a distance of several meters. Horimono had a beautiful sense of continuity and movement but it is hard to see and undertsand without previous knowledgement. It requires special techniques and years of apprenticeship. Although not looked upon very highly in Japanese society, horimono still a beautiful and intricate art form.


Sumi-e (Japanese 墨 絵) „Sumi“ means black ink made of soot, „e“ means painting.

It is a painting technique, which in addition to good brushes, only black drawing ink, water and unsized paper are needed.


We use this technique, as many Japanese Tattoo Masters also do, to paint our traditional Horimono designs. Every painting is unique and custom draw for each costumer. The designs are traditional based on Ukiyoe paintings such as the Suikoden heroes, Japanese folklore and mythology. Traditionally the deshi, the student, must copy the designs of the master in oder to learn and memories them. Each tattoo family has its own style to draw and paint the designs which is like a signature to identify the tattooist family.

For a better understanding of our works we have put together a collection of videos where you can appreciate the traditional tebori in action as well as some finished and some „in progress“ horimono tattoos. Please have understanding that the footages are partially very old. We will update the gallery with new videos from time to time.

Deeply thankful to my Master Horimitsu Sensei for his mentorship, support, artistic and spiritual guidance and for his encouragement in every way.