When and where is the 16th King of Tattoo?

The 16th King of Tattoo takes place April 10-12, 2026, at Tokyo Kinema Club and Dancehall Shin Seiki in Tokyo's Shinjuku district. The event runs for three days, typically opening in the early afternoon each day. Both venues are within walking distance of Shinjuku Station.

What happens at this event?

The convention features live tattooing sessions, vendor booths selling equipment and supplies, and tattoo competitions in categories including traditional Japanese work and contemporary styles. Artists work on the convention floor while attendees browse portfolios and flash sheets. Evening events often continue at Dancehall Shin Seiki.

How do I get tickets for King of Tattoo 2026?

Tickets are available through the official event website at https://www.tattoofilter.com/tattoo-events/tokyo/king-of-tattoo-2026. Pricing typically includes single-day passes and weekend packages. Advance purchase is recommended as Japanese tattoo conventions often sell out, particularly for Saturday sessions.

What should I bring or expect?

Bring cash for vendors and tips, as many booths do not accept cards. Bring a valid ID for entry. Expect strict photography rules; always ask before taking photos of artists or their work. Wear comfortable shoes for standing on concrete floors. Note that visible tattoos may still draw attention in Tokyo outside the venue.

Is this event good for first-time convention attendees?

Yes, though attendees should understand Japanese tattoo etiquette. The atmosphere is quieter and more formal than Western conventions, with emphasis on respect for the artists. First-timers will find a range of styles on display and can observe tattooing up close, making it educational for those new to the scene.

16th King of Tattoo

Name: 16th King of Tattoo
Start: 2026-04-10
End: 2026-04-12
Location: Tokyo Kinema Club & Dancehall Shin Seiki

The 16th King of Tattoo is a three-day tattoo convention taking place April 10-12, 2026, at Tokyo Kinema Club and Dancehall Shin Seiki in Tokyo, Japan. This is the sixteenth edition of the event, which has established itself as a fixed point in the Japanese tattoo calendar since its inception. The event occupies two venues in the Shinjuku area. Tokyo Kinema Club functions as the primary exhibition space, while Dancehall Shin Seiki hosts additional activities and after-hours programming. Attendees can expect live tattooing sessions across multiple booths, with artists working in various styles from traditional Japanese irezumi to contemporary blackwork and realism. The convention floor includes vendor stalls selling tattoo equipment, supplies, and merchandise. Tokyo maintains a complex relationship with tattoo culture. While irezumi has deep historical roots in Japanese art, modern regulations and social stigma have pushed much of the scene underground. Events like King of Tattoo provide a rare public space where collectors and artists can meet without the restrictions often encountered in daily life in Japan. The convention draws local Tokyo artists alongside international guests, though specific guest lists for 2026 have not been announced. The event runs Friday through Sunday. Doors typically open in the early afternoon and continue into the evening, with Saturday usually being the busiest day. Competitions are held throughout the weekend in categories such as Best Traditional Japanese, Best Black and Grey, and Best of Show. Entry fees vary by day, with weekend passes available for those attending multiple sessions. Tokyo Kinema Club is located near Shinjuku Station, making it accessible via the JR Yamanote Line and several subway lines. The area has numerous hotels ranging from capsule accommodations to international chains. Attendees should note that many public bathhouses (onsen and sento) in Tokyo still refuse entry to people with visible tattoos, though this is slowly changing in tourist areas. First-time visitors to Japanese tattoo conventions should bring cash, as many vendors do not accept credit cards. Photography policies are strict; always ask permission before photographing artists at work or their flash sheets. The event maintains a respectful atmosphere focused on the craft rather than spectacle.