As a digital nomad exploring the lively streets of Chiang Mai, have you ever felt the urge to immortalize your journey with a piece of body art?
Table of Contents
Chiang Mai has a unique combination of contemporary artistic flair and a deep cultural legacy, making it an ideal destination for those looking to get inked.
Finding the ideal tattoo studio can be an exciting journey, particularly in a city full of creative talents and distinct designs.
Key Highlights
- Chiang Mai offers diverse top-notch tattoo studios, each providing unique styles and high hygiene standards.
- Many of these studios use vegan-friendly inks and traditional Thai bamboo tattoo techniques, adding a unique cultural touch to their services.
- Digital nomads can get inked while supporting charitable causes, as some studios donate proceeds to cancer patients or children’s education.
- Several standout tattoo studios in Chiang Mai include Lee On Ink Tattoo Studio, known for its quirky and inclusive atmosphere, and Celebrity Ink Tattoo Studio, a global chain with high hygiene standards and fluent English-speaking staff. Bloodline Tattoo Studio is celebrated for its bold designs and strict hygiene practices. At the same time, Chiang Mai Skinart Studio is noted for its dot work and vegan inks. Panumart Tattoo Studio, a family-run business, pairs customers with artists based on their expertise, ensuring the perfect tattoo.
- Studios like Sam Tattoo Chiang Mai and Baan Khagee Tattoo focus on exceptional artistry and engage in philanthropic efforts, making the tattoo experience even more meaningful.
- Chiang Mai is a top-rated destination for tattoo enthusiasts. It offers a rich blend of artistic talent, cultural heritage, and opportunities to support local causes, making it a unique and enriching experience for digital nomads and travelers.
Best Place to Get a Tattoo in Chiang Mai
Join us as we explore the best places to get a tattoo in Chiang Mai, showcasing the top 10 tattoo studios known for their superb tattoo artists, impeccable cleanliness, and friendly atmosphere.
Whether you’re looking for a minimalist tattoo, a traditional Thai bamboo tattoo, or something completely out of the blue, our guide will help you choose the perfect place to make your tattoo vision a reality come true.
So, if you’re a digital nomad eager to add a permanent memento to your travels, read on to discover the best tattoo studios in Chiang Mai.
1. Lee On Ink Tattoo Studio
The Lee on Ink Tattoo Studio in Chiang Mai is famous for its quirky, cute, homemade tattoo style. They specialize in machine and hand poke designs.
The tattoo artists at Lee on Ink Tattoo Studio are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. They are skilled at tattooing all skin types, ensuring every digital nomad feels comfortable and confident in their tattoo experience.
I love the ambiance of the studio. The interior has a modern industrial vibe; it’s simple and spacious. There are plenty of seats where customers can lounge while waiting for their turns.
Besides the quirky tattoos, you can enjoy light snacks and coffee at the studio.
Walk-ins are welcome, but it is still best to book an appointment beforehand to ensure your spot.
14 Chang Phueak Thongkaw Rd., Tambon Chang Phueak, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand
+66 82 482 2195
https://www.facebook.com/leeonink/
2. Celebrity Ink Tattoo Studio Chiang Mai
Celebrity Ink Tattoo Studio Chiang Mai is a global chain of tattoo studios with locations in Australia, Italy, and Indonesia. In Thailand, they have branches in Phuket and here in Chiang Mai.
The studio is authorized by the Professional Tattoo Association of Australia, and the artists are trained professionals.
The facility is well maintained to maintain high standards of hygiene and sanitation. All the ink used in the studio is imported from the USA.
The staff here speak fluent English. With no language barrier, you can explain every detail to ensure your tattoo turns out to be exactly as you imagined.
44/2 Loi Kroh Rd., Tambon Chang Khlan, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
+66 65 778 5175
3. Bloodline Tattoo Studio
The Bloodline Tattoo Studio opened its other branch in Chiang Mai following its popularity in Phuket. It is run by native Australians fluent in Thai, Chinese, and German.
The studio features some of Southeast Asia’s most renowned award-winning tattoo artists. They use technologically advanced equipment and imported inks for all the tattoos.
Nevertheless, they also cater to requests for traditional Thai bamboo stick techniques.
The artists are more popular for crafting large, bold designs. Still, they also deliver fine lines and minimalist tattoos that are equally perfect.
The best thing in my experience with Bloodline Studio is their strict adherence to hygiene. They are very particular about maintaining the work area and keeping the equipment sterile.
They also ensure that they educate you thoroughly on properly caring for your new tattoo site.
25, 4 Loi Kroh Rd., Chang Khlan Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
+66 80 837 4432
4. Chiang Mai Skinart Studio
Chiang Mai Skinart Studio is a tiny tattoo studio at the Rachadamnoen Road. It might be a little behind the larger studios in the city in terms of infrastructure, but it is more popular among the locals and digital nomads for its skilled artists.
The owner and artist, Chris Kamhoms, is particularly dexterous in dot work. He encourages customers to opt for more traditional designs, including geometric and mandala patterns, instead of abstract sketches.
However, you are free to pick any design of your choice, and it will be delivered with intricate details. Either way, it won’t hurt to get recommendations from Chris for a more personal and meaningful tattoo experience.
One unique feature of Chiang Mai Skinart is that they use vegan inks for all tattoos. So, if you are looking for a vegan-friendly tattoo shop, this is the best place to be!
56 Rachadamnoen Rd., Si Phum Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand
+66 81 169 9132
5. Best Sure Tattoo Studio
Best Sure Tattoo Studio is one of the finest tattoo shops in Chiang Mai. It offers a large selection of designs you can choose from.
The artists are skilled in almost every technique, so you can choose any you like. In addition to modern machine tattoos, the studio features a hand-poked tattoo facility, which is pretty rare in this area.
The studio is also famous for its special services for women. The services are delivered by female artists led by Khun Aon.
Aside from its tattoo services, Best Sure also offers tattoo courses for aspiring artists and a barbershop for those who want to get their hair done.
I love the convenience the studio offers. It is a one-stop shop for digital nomads who want to get inked, get a haircut, and perhaps learn new tattoo skills.
88/67 Kankanok Ville Village 9, Village No. 2, San Klang, San Kamphaeng District, Chiang Mai 50130, Thailand
+66 86 776 6883
6. Panumart Tattoo Studio
Panumart Tattoo Studio is a family-run studio located in the old city of Chiang Mai. It is much talked about for several reasons, the most prominent one being its impeccable cleanliness and hygienic environment.
Its tattoos are a mix of Thai and Western influences. All the artists here are professionally trained and offer various tattoo styles, such as Realistic, Watercolor, minimal, Sak Yant, New School, Old School, and more.
The studio is headed by the main artist, Ahm, who has a background in art and design. She is more inclined towards tattooing realistic images but can also do any design you wish.
I appreciate Panuman’s effort to deliver the best and most fitting service for your needs.
Unlike other studios, which cater to customers depending on which artist is readily available, Panuman ensures you are paired with their artists based on their expertise.
On that note, you can be assured you have the right man for the job. That’s one of the reasons why the studio only accepts bookings and no walk-ins.
115, 48 Soi 16, Pa Daet Sub-district, Mueang, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
+66 61 827 5240
7. Sam Tattoo Chiang Mai
Sam Tattoo Chiang Mai is one of the oldest tattoo studios in Chiang Mai. It was established in 1994 and currently has three branches, all of which are around the famous Kalare Night Bazaar area.
They have over a decade of experience, which is reflected in the stability of their hands. The artists here are skilled in both machines and traditional bamboo tattoos.
Sam Tattoo caters to a variety of established tattoo designs. But their specialty is the Sak Yant tattoo, which includes a local monk’s blessing.
The studio uses high-quality inks, including special UV-sensitive inks that give an unearthly glow to the tattoos.
Sam Tattoo’s charity effort is what draws me to this studio the most. For years, it has been donating some of its proceeds to help cancer patients with treatment costs.
It’s a win-win situation – you get a neatly done tattoo while helping cancer patients. This makes the experience even more enriching and memorable for digital nomads.
Chang Moi Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
+66 89 884 0462
8. Baan Khagee Tattoo
Baan Khagee Tattoo Studio is situated in the mountainous area of Mae Wang district. You can enjoy the picturesque scenery on your way as you drive to the location.
If you find the route confusing, the owner and artist Nate will pick you up halfway at Ban Kat Market.
The studio is set up in the arms of nature, away from the city crowd. Most visitors describe the experience here as similar to that of visiting an old friend in a far-off place.
Despite being away from the city, the studio has a high standard of cleanliness and hygiene. Even the ink that they use is vegan-friendly. Yes, Baan Khagee is one of the few tattoo shops in Chiang Mai that uses plant-based inks.
The head artist, Nate, specializes in natural and animal styles. Most visitors describe him as humble and patient.
Like Sam Tattoo, Baan Khagee offers its artistry for a special cause. Under his “Small Things Matter x Pang Ma-O” project, for each tattoo done by Nate, he donates one hour of his time to a kid’s education.
131, 2, Mae Win, Mae Wang District, Chiang Mai 50360, Thailand
+66 81 043 9228
9. Jub Tattoo Chiang Mai
Jub Tattoo Chiang Mai specializes in custom-designed tattoos tailored to clients’ preferences and ideas. It offer a great selection of styles, including traditional, modern, and unique artistic designs.
However, the studio is more famous for rendering fine lines and minimalist designs.
I appreciate that the artists here are thorough and detailed despite the size and simplicity of my chosen design. In the end, I am very pleased with the neat outcome. It’s a statement piece on its own.
The online feedback also attests to Jub’s artist’s credibility with its perfect 5-star rating on Google.
55/2 Ratchapakinai Road, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
+66 86 567 3456
10. Zeroo Tattoo Chiang Mai
Zeroo Tattoo is a highly-rated tattoo and piercing shop on Ratchavithi Road in Chiang Mai. The studio offers custom designs tailored to client preferences.
However, they are most famous for their free-hand tattooing using the bamboo stick technique.
I find this method more artistic and intimate. It reflects the artist’s natural skills and gives a more unique experience than conventional tattoo machines.
With reservation-only services, digital nomads can schedule appointments that fit their flexible and often unpredictable schedules. So, it’s best to give them a call beforehand to ensure your slot.
74 Ratchavithi Rd., Sriphoom, Muang, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
+66 62 969 9792
Final Thoughts: Tattoo Studios in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, with its lively arts scene and rich cultural legacy, is home to some of the best tattoo studios in Thailand.
Our guide has showcased the top 10 tattoo studios in the city. They are all distinguished by their own styles and services appealing to a wide spectrum of tattoo enthusiasts.
Whether you prefer traditional Thai bamboo tattoos, modern machine tattoos, or vegan-friendly inks, a studio in Chiang Mai can fulfill your tattoo dreams.
Best Place to Get a Tattoo in Chiang Mai
After exploring the various options, it is clear that each studio brings something special to the table.
From the quirky and inclusive atmosphere of Lee On Ink Tattoo Studio to the professional and globally recognized Celebrity Ink Tattoo Studio, there is no shortage of talent and creativity in this city.
In summary, Chiang Mai is a tattoo lover’s paradise, offering various studios catering to different preferences and styles. No matter where you choose to get inked, you can be assured of high hygiene standards, professionalism, and creativity.
If you’re a digital nomad looking to get a tattoo in Chiang Mai, you’re in the best place to make your artistic visions come to life.
FAQ
When selecting a tattoo parlor in Chiang Mai, consider the studio’s hygienic practices, the artists’ portfolios, client testimonials, and whether the studio specializes in your desired tattoo style.
The size, intricacy, and style of the tattoo and the artist’s background and reputation affect tattoo costs in Chiang Mai. It is best to speak with the studio directly for an exact quote.
Many shops in Chiang Mai, such as Sam Tattoo Chiang Mai and Zeroo Tattoo Chiang Mai, offer traditional Thai bamboo tattoos.
Indeed, many tattoo parlors in Chiang Mai focus on creating unique designs based on your tastes and concepts. Custom artwork is a specialty of studios like Jub Tattoo Chiang Mai and Zeroo Tattoo Chiang Mai.
In Chiang Mai, most tattoo studios require clients to be at least eighteen. To verify your age, make sure you have a valid ID with you.
