This article deals with the Japanese tattoo that is studied as a cultural reflection of the historical process in the country and also within the hystory of the criminal clans of Japan. The author explores the phenomenon of Yakuza tattoos, as well as he relationship between a tattoo and its wearer. Tattoo is, first of all, a part of culture, inextricably linked with a person by a long history. It, as a part of fine art, reflects the state of society at a certain period of time, is a source that allows you to touch the traditions of previous generations. At the moment, because of the yakuza, the people of Japan are wary of tattooed compatriots. For a very long time, tattoos have been taboo and were banned at the legislative level. This could not but affect the perception of irezumi. Within the country, this culture is experiencing a twofold attitude. In this article the author examines not only the history of the emergence and development of traditional Japanese tattooing, but also the attitude towards tattooing in modern society. There are many of the troubles happened because of differences in cultures or life styles. One of such troubles is about bathing in public bathes by people with tattoos. In Japan, people with tattoos cannot take public bathes in many cases, while they wear tattoos out of their cultural traditions in some areas or cultures. The conclusion is Japanese tattooing, at the moment, unfortunately, has a negative connotation; however, the tattooing tradition among Yakuza is unique example of the fusion of ancient culture of branding, exquisite art and modern Japanese mentality. This culture must be studied and supported in order to get closer to understanding the cultural values of the Japanese, to promote the recognition of tattoos as part of the cultural heritage of the Japanese society.