Japanese Temporary Tattoo Sleeves: Dragon, Koi & Snake

Japanese temporary tattoo sleeve: dragon, koi and snake designs

A Japanese temporary tattoo sleeve is a 17 x 49 cm transfer that goes on with water, turns matte in 24 to 36 hours and lasts 10 to 14 days (about a week on the hands). There are three worlds: the dragon with the Totem Dragon and Dragon & Koi: Ascension, and the lotus and snake with Lotus & Snakes.

Dragon temporary tattoo sleeve for the arm

In Japanese tattooing, the dragon is often tied to strength. Two sleeves show it: the Totem Dragon and Dragon & Koi: Ascension, which pairs the dragon with the koi carp.

Snake, koi and lotus sleeve tattoo

The koi is often linked to perseverance, the lotus to rebirth and the snake to protection. Lotus & Snakes puts the lotus and the snake on one arm.

Fake Japanese sleeve tattoo: test the design first

A large Japanese design takes dozens of hours in a studio. Wearing it for 10 to 14 days shows you whether it suits your arm. See also all our temporary tattoo sleeves, the Maori and tribal sleeves and our guide fake tattoo sleeves compared.

Half sleeve and forearm Japanese tattoo: which size?

The three Japanese sleeves cover the full arm, from the wrist toward the shoulder (17 x 49 cm). For a lighter forearm look, see the Maori Tribal Armband (18 x 5 cm) or the Maori and tribal sleeves.

Where to buy a Japanese tattoo sleeve, and fabric sleeve or transfer?

You can buy the Japanese sleeves directly on this page. A fabric sleeve is a tube you pull on; an InkToday sleeve is a transfer on the skin that dries matte like ink and lasts 10 to 14 days. See the comparison of fabric, sticker and transfer sleeves. Need one for an event? See our guide to a fake tattoo sleeve for a stag do, fancy dress or a festival.

Japanese temporary tattoo sleeve FAQ

How long does a Japanese temporary tattoo sleeve last?

It lasts 10 to 14 days on the arm and about a week on the hands. The design turns matte 24 to 36 hours after you apply it.

What size is the sleeve?

17 x 49 cm, from the wrist toward the shoulder.

How do you apply a Japanese temporary tattoo sleeve?

Place the printed side on clean, dry skin, press a damp cloth on it, then peel the backing away. It takes about 5 minutes.

Does a fake dragon sleeve tattoo look real?

Yes. It goes on the skin and dries matte like ink. It is not a fabric sleeve.

Are these sleeves peel-and-stick stickers?

No. They are water-applied transfers: you press a damp cloth on the back, then peel the backing away.

How do you remove a temporary tattoo sleeve?

A little oil or makeup remover takes it off cleanly. Otherwise it fades on its own in 10 to 14 days.

Which design should I pick: dragon, koi or snake?

For a dragon, the Totem Dragon or Dragon & Koi: Ascension. For a lotus and snakes, Lotus & Snakes. All three cover the full arm.