The stylization of the Japanese bodysuit is one
that is unique. While many artistic references and
folklore draw their influence from China, the body-
suit formats are a purely Japanese invention. Termi-
nology and tattoo styles may vary slightly by era and
artist. The information below has been supplied by
Horiyoshi III. Illustrations by Justin.

Sujibori: outline
Bokashi: shading
Akebono bokashi: gradation shading
Umazumi bokashi: gray shading
Hon bokashi: black shading
Mikiri: background
Butsugiri: straight-line mikiri
Botan mikiri: scalloped mikiri
Matsuba-mikiri: pine needle shaped mikiri
Akebono mikiri: gradation mikiri
Nukibori: back tattoo without mikiri
Gakubori: tattoo with mikiri
Tebori: hand tattooing