very interesting, thanks for posting. This is always a part of the culture you never get to see or hear about. I remember after the great Earthquake and Tsunami I had heard rumors of the Yakuza helping people who were homeless. Not sure if it was true, but I always made me curious just who they were...

Futatabi, arigatogozaimashita!

responsible for the actions of their underlings. Similar to the US RICO statutes.

When we got an apartment we had a whole page, of a twenty some page rental agreement declaring we were not Yakuza. They are being marginalized. Hip Hop culture and it's style are popular with some young people. I'm grateful I don't have any tattoos cause I love onsen (Hot Spring Baths), 99% of which ban Tattoos.



I found the 81 tattoo amusing it's like the 415 tattoos in the Yay Area.

Some day I want to go to an Onsen or Roten Buro and soak for hours without the worry that someone will come along and throw my ass out into street.

One time I saw a guy wearing what looked like a cut off sock on his arm. Either way unless you've got full sleeves, small tattoos and tramp stamps are generally lame.

Onsen and less common now neighborhood baths (Sentos) are one of the best parts of Japan and something I really enjoy.

Hokkaido!

Is Kyushu! But I'm biased. I've heard the most beautiful part of Japan is just south of Hokkaido called Tōhoku. I'm sure Art's been there, maybe he will chime in. BTW the picture looks like a sapporo ad.