Yakuza ヤクザ・やくざ
Japan’s legendary organized “business groups” who run everything from legitimate enterprises to activities your mother warned you about. Known for full-body tattoos, missing pinky fingers, and surprisingly strict codes of honor.
-
Survival tip: You won’t accidentally join – but do avoid establishments with dubious ownership in areas like 歌舞伎町 Kabukichou. If you see fancy black cars with white curtains, that’s your cue to walk the other way.
-
Tattoo note: Those cool tattoos you’re thinking about getting? They might cause issues at public baths and gyms, where ink of any kind often means no entry.