TOKYO THREE TIDES — Local services in Tokyo

This was honestly such a terrible experience. I started the consult/booking process almost two months in advance, and my artist booked me the day I was to arrive, even after I sent my schedule before booking. Then something went wrong with my flight and I let him know, he said that I would be able to come directly from the airport to the studio, fully knowing what time I would land and when I would be able to arrive. I get in after a 16 hour flight, exhausted, and the person at the desk was super rude and didn't even make eye contact with me and was like, "Yeah I heard about you, he said you never sent in the deposit, he's at home". I definitely had sent the deposit and let the artist know I had done so. Then he said there was no one there who could do my piece. I got on the phone with the artist to figure out what had happened, and he told me that I screwed up and that "maybe you don't understand how to book a tattoo" and started mansplaining to me how to book a tattoo. As a woman who has a lot of tattoos and has been tattooed all over the world, I found this attitude not only unprecedented in my experience, but triggering. It was so hostile that I actually started crying, which I never do but I was just so exhausted and blindsided. Then the manager asked to see my design, and by that point I felt so unsafe and disrespected that I really didn't want to get inked by any of the people there. I got back to my hotel to a message from the artist saying that the manager told him I just stormed out and didn't want to listen, which was not true. Deciding not to get tattooed in that situation is not the same as refusing to listen and storming out. I spent quite some time talking to the manager and my artist about the miscommunication. Later that night I emailed them the receipts for my deposit, and our communications that led up to that day, and the manager actually double down and said that he thought my artist was being completely thoughtful and reasonable, and that I was the one who didn't understand.

Most of my body is tattooed, and this is the worst studio I have ever...

I rarely leave bad reviews for only poor service however I felt compelled to write a review as the moment we had inside the shop was unwelcoming and difficult to handle. We found the “humble” Three Tides whilst searching for piercing tattoo/piercing parlours in Tokyo (their google listing states they are a piercing shop). Stepping inside we were met with stares and a lack of interest in the possible gain of a new client for the shop. We saw 4 staff members watching another customer having a piece drawn up and after waiting for 5 minutes or so we were gestured up to the counter by an english staff member with a distinct large, alien like bald head. The interaction was uncomfortable and awkward as the staff member raised an eyebrow when we asked about piercing equipment. He told us we were wrong and that google is wrong too and that piercing and tattoo parlours are usually not combined in Japan. As first time travellers this information was greatly appreciated and we made it known we are unfamiliar with this kind format (it is near impossible to quickly find information on these kinds of social norms with a search). We apologised and asked if they have space in the near future for a booking, The staff member looked as if we were completely stupid and said nothing... he went totally silent. By this point we were appauled by the “do nothing” attitude of this individual and decided not to repeat the question as we felt the staff member growing frustrated for some reason. We apologised again, said thank you and left without a word from this person. To summarise this review - We were not sure if this guy was an artist at the shop or just reception as our interaction was only very brief, but I wouldnt trust him with needles as he seems to be either under the influence of alcohol, narcotics or just socially handicapped. THIS IS NOT A REFLECTION OF OTHER ARTISTS AT THE STORE, however if they chose to hire an artist/reception with such dirty manners I would look at different parlours before choosing Three Tides as you are guaranteed a...

My entire experience with TTT has been absolutely wonderful. If you're looking for the BEST tattoo shop in Tokyo, this is the one. Here's a recap of my experience:

Pre-tattoo Before my appointment, I was in contact with Rita. She was patient, detailed and very helpful throughout the process. She answered all my questions (in English) in a timely manner.

Day of tattoo I have selected Hide Ichibay as my artist due to his unique style and artistry. Ichibay is a laid back and down-to-earth person. From the start, he was friendly, welcoming, caring and personable, sharing his travel stories during the tattoo.

Post-tattoo I was extremely pleased with my tattoo. After the work, they provided a small tube of anti-bacterial moisturizer as well as tips and tricks to keeping your tattoo fresh and clean during the healing process.

From the amazing customer service, to the artist, to the clean environment, I cannot say nothing but good things about this place. I don't know what will last forever, my tattoo, or the whole...