I'm scared it'll turn out badly. It's forever.
You see the final design before the needle touches your skin, and we don't start until you love it.
刺青の芸術
The art of tattooing
彫師HorishiTattoo artist
Behind the needle
Who will tattoo you
I'm Hiroshi Kawai. I started tattooing in Japan and I've been doing this for 6 years. I stuck with black and grey and Japanese style because everything depends on line and shading: there's no color to hide anything, and that pushes me to take care of every detail. I chose Huanchaco because I grew up here, and I like working close to the beach, connected to the sea.
Real work, no filters
Styles
I specialize in black and grey: realism and Japanese. I also do lettering, blackwork, anime and realistic pet portraits. Pick a style and see how it looks on skin. There's more at @hiroshitatts.
How does it work?
From message to skin
Four steps and how long each one takes, so you know what to expect.
- Reply within 24 h
Tell me your idea
Placement, size and a reference or two. That's all I need.
- 3 to 5 days
Custom design
I send you the sketch and we adjust it until you love it.
- 1 to 6 hours
Session
Private studio, your choice of music and breaks whenever you need them.
- 2 to 3 weeks
Healing
You take home the aftercare guide and I'm with you until it heals.
How much does it cost?
A price made for you
I don't have fixed prices: every tattoo is quoted based on your idea. Message me on WhatsApp and I'll reply with a fixed price in writing before the session.
- 01
Size
From tiny pieces to full sleeves and back pieces.
- 02
Placement
Some areas take longer than others.
- 03
Level of detail
Shading, realism and backgrounds add hours of work.
- 04
Sessions
Large pieces are done over several sessions.
Before you get tattooed
I know what's holding you back
These are the three things people tell me most before booking.
I don't know how much it'll cost and I don't want surprises.
I give you a fixed price in writing before the session. What we agree on is what you pay.
I want something Japanese and I don't know who does it well in Trujillo.
I started tattooing in Japan, and traditional Japanese style is my foundation: koi, waves, dragons and peonies.
Frequently asked questions
Before your appointment
How do I prepare for the session?
Get a good night's sleep, eat before you come and drink water. Avoid alcohol the day before, and don't arrive with the area sunburned or irritated. Wear comfortable clothes that leave the area exposed.
Does it hurt?
You'll feel it, but it's bearable. It depends on the area: ribs, feet or elbows hurt more than the arm or leg. We take breaks whenever you need them.
How long does a session take?
Between 1 and 6 hours, depending on size and detail. Large pieces are done over several sessions.
How much does a tattoo cost?
I don't have fixed prices: every design is quoted based on size, placement and detail. Message me on WhatsApp with your idea and a reference photo, and I'll send you a fixed price in writing before the session.
Where is the studio?
It's a private studio in Huanchaco, Trujillo, and I work by appointment only. When you book, I'll send you the exact address and the Google Maps location.
How do I book an appointment?
Message me on WhatsApp or Instagram with your idea, the placement and the approximate size. We refine the design together and pick a date; the schedule adapts to you.
How do I take care of it afterwards?
The full day-by-day guide is right below. And if something doesn't look right, message me with a photo.
And after the tattoo?
Caring for your tattoo
A well-healed tattoo stays sharp for years. This is what you need to do, day by day.
Keep the wrap on
- Don't remove the film or dressing too early.
- Wash your hands before touching the tattoo.
Wash and protect
- Wash it 2 or 3 times a day with lukewarm water and mild soap.
- Pat it dry with paper towel, without rubbing.
- Apply a thin layer of healing cream.
Don't scratch it
- It's normal for it to itch and peel.
- Keep using the cream, always in a thin layer.
- Wear loose clothing that doesn't rub.
Sunscreen, always
- SPF 50 sunscreen every time you go out in the sun.
- Moisturize your skin so the black stays deep.
AvoidThe first 2 to 3 weeks
- Sea and beach
- Swimming pools
- Direct sun
- Sauna and steam
- Scratching or picking scabs
- Hard workouts the first 3 days
Something doesn't look right? Message me with a photo and we'll check it. If you notice pus, fever or redness that keeps spreading, see a doctor.
Got an idea?
Let's talk
Message me on Instagram or WhatsApp with your idea, the placement and a reference or two. I reply within 24 hours.
- @hiroshitatts
- +51 920 022 855
- Studio
- Huanchaco, Trujillo, Peru. I'll send you the exact address when your appointment is confirmed.
- Hours
- Private studio: by appointment only, at the time that suits you best