everyone,
I'm planning on moving to Japan in about 6 months and I'm a competitive bodybuilder with a ton of tattoos. I’ve been doing some digging but I'm still a bit stuck on a few things and was hoping someone could help me out.
Question 1 - I’ve been reading all over the place that anabolic steroids are actually legal in Japan, but for some reason getting your hands on syringes and needles is almost impossible? Apparently they're super hard to find and you can’t even import them legally. Does anyone know if those rules have changed recently or if there’s a legit way to go about this? I really don't want to end up on the wrong side of the law over there.
Question 2 - Since I have a lot of ink, especially stuff that’s pretty much impossible to hide like on my hands and knuckles, what kind of issues am I gonna run into day-to-day? I know Japan can be a bit strict about that kind of thing but I'm curious what the actual reality is for someone living there.
Really appreciate any advice or insight you guys can share!
honestly smart of you to ask before going, Japan’s laws are no joke. I’d def double check everything officially so you don’t accidentally screw yourself
from what I’ve heard the tattoo thing is more social than legal - like gyms, onsens, some jobs might care, but day to day life you’ll be fine
yeah the whole “legal but not really” vibe around stuff like that in Japan is confusing as hell. better safe than sorry for sure
hand tattoos might get you some looks but it’s not like you’ll be chased outta town lol. just depends where you go and who you’re around
respect for actually researching this instead of just showing up and hoping for the best. Japan’s awesome but their rules are strict af 😅
japan’s rules are kinda weird like that, technically some stuff is legal but the accessories make it complicated. i’d be super careful and not assume anything works the same as back home
tattoos are still a thing there socially, not illegal but definitely judged. gyms and onsens are usually the biggest headache
day to day life you’ll probably be fine, just expect some stares and a few places that straight up say no tattoos
competitive bodybuilding over there is way more low key, so standing out with size + ink might get attention fast
cool move overall tho, just do a ton of homework and play it extra safe. japan doesn’t mess around with rules even if they seem minor
