Idaho's

Only Japanese focused tattoo studio

you just found your new favorite tattoo shop

Welcome to Lucky Koi Tattoo

Welcome to our humble little shop in Idaho Falls. We are so happy to be a part of this wonderful community. Now that we live and work in the older neighborhood just north of downtown we are really enjoying the beauty, charm and historical value of the area.

Our shop is a relaxed comfortable environment. It's like coming to hang out in our living room. It's just the two of us and we are here for you. We love the social aspect of this work and because we both do a lot of large scale work we really get to looking forward to seeing our new friends as much as the cool work that we get to do.

Cherise

Japanese

Cover-up

Black Out

Blast Over

Jason

inside arm tattoo of Japanese rocks and water

Japanese sleeve and chest pannel of samurai mask with wind, clouds and cherry blossoms

tattoo of dragons tail with water background on leg calf

man with long hair getting tattooed, biting a nerf football for the pain

female tattooing Tiger Dragon on mans back, Japanese tattoo images on back wall

tattoo black koi fish with water splashing and red chrysanthemum flowers

tattoo of a Heikegani Japanese crab that has the face of a samurai

arm tattoo of red chrysanthemum with water splashing around the flower

Wabori

Irezumi

Japanese woodblock print of three courtesans in pleasure house, hoo mural on the wall behind them.

Timeless

and

Distinct

Japanese woodblock print, group of Japanese warriors with tattooed body suits on blue background

BOLD

and

Enduring

Bush Warbler (bird) woodblock print as background for web page

Traditional Japanese

The Art and Tradition of Wabori – Japanese Tattooing

Wabori (和彫り), meaning “Japanese carving,” is the traditional style of Japanese tattooing, rooted in centuries of history and artistic mastery. Emerging from the Edo period (1603–1868), Wabori evolved from woodblock print art (ukiyo-e) and storytelling traditions, transforming the body into a living canvas of mythology, folklore, and personal symbolism. Originally worn by firemen, laborers, and outlaws as marks of bravery and identity, these tattoos became a powerful symbol of resilience, honor, and commitment.

Visually, Wabori is characterized by large-scale designs that flow seamlessly with the body’s natural form. Common motifs include dragons, koi fish, tigers, phoenixes, and deities like Fudo Myoo, each carrying deep meaning—strength, perseverance, protection, and wisdom. These tattoos are traditionally done with bold black outlines, intricate shading, and a harmonious blend of color, often covering the back, arms, and legs in a cohesive composition. The background elements, such as wind, waves, and cherry blossoms, unify the imagery, creating a dynamic, timeless aesthetic.

Wabori is not just a tattoo style—it’s a lifelong statement. It is best suited for those who appreciate tradition, artistry, and the weight of meaning behind the imagery. Whether you seek a piece that tells your personal story or connects you to the legacy of Japanese tattooing, Wabori demands dedication, respect, and an understanding of its cultural depth. For those ready to wear something enduring, bold, and steeped in history, Wabori stands as one of the most revered and meaningful tattoo forms in the world.