Before any tattoo session, it’s always best to feed your tummy to avoid queasiness while getting inked. Well, Downtown Kuala Lumpur (KL) is just the place for that. There are plenty of quaint cafes, street food, and traditional coffee shops nearby these tattoo parlours in DTKL!
As these tattoo parlours offer a wide range of designs, you’ll be sure to find art that’ll fit your style. Keep in mind that all of the tattoo studios run by appointment only, so do remember to contact the tattoo artist beforehand to book a session.
1. HaiYuan Tattoo Studio
Only a quick one-minute walk from Pasar Seni MRT station, HaiYuan Tattoo Studio is very accessible by public transport — that’s a huge plus considering the limited parking in Downtown KL. The studio currently houses six artists, each with their own unique style. Besides tattoos, HaiYuan Studio also offers piercing and tattoo learning courses. Without further ado, here are the 6 tattoo artists at HaiYuan:
Hai Yuan
Hai Yuan is the owner and main mentor at the studio. Hailing from Dalian, China, his tattoos are done in an oriental style, with elements like dragons and cranes. He also does portraits, florals, and other styles depending on requests.
Hishiko Woo
Hishiko’s works commonly have feminine characters in them, drawn in intricate lines and stippled shading. She also does cute chibi-like characters at times. She is currently not accepting custom designs, so you can take your pick from her collection of flashes.
Yoolai_yao
On her Instagram account, you will find a variety of cute, cartoon characters imploring you to adopt them. Her main style is black and white cartoon illustrations, though sometimes colour can be added on a case-by-case basis.
Andy
Andy’s works appear to be the most versatile of the lot. He offers a variety of tattoo styles, from tribal to Japanese, old-school style, realism, and illustrative designs. No matter which style, the skill in his work shines through.
Zienzz
Zienzz offers both machine and hand-poked tattoos. Her tattoos are fun and cute, with flowers being a common theme at the moment. Custom designs in her style are available too!
Jolie Tan
Jolie’s skills can be seen immediately through the tattoo works on her Instagram. The common theme in her tattoo illustrations at the moment are surreal feminine characters and floral designs.
HaiYuan Tattoo Studio
Address: No.177, Jalan Tun H S Lee, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur
Contact: HaiYuan Tattoo Studio WhatsApp.
2. Belongink Tattoo
Hidden in Kampung Attap’s creative hub, the Zhongshan building, is this tiny but mighty tattoo studio. Brandon is the one-man band of Belongink Tattoo at the moment, but the big news here is that he has an apprentice who will soon release her art style!
Brandon’s tattoos are cute, quirky, and most importantly, not typical to other tattoo styles. He describes his tattoos as doodles that are simple and straightforward. Doodling has been a means of expression for Brandon, as he can conjure designs from his imagination that cannot be described in words. He also takes pleasure in seeing his pieces on skin instead of paper.
Brandon has been in the industry for over five years now, and is proud of every piece of work he has put out. The tattoos he produces are an extension of his feelings, making each one of them special. Take a look at ‘Observer’ and ‘Special Connection’ below.
Brandon only offers flash tattoos at the moment, with custom designs available at the end of 2022. Custom designs will be based on his art style, so do watch Belongink’s Instagram for future updates!
Address: 82c, Jalan Kampung Attap, Kampung Attap, 50460 Kuala Lumpur
Contact: +6013 515 4313
3. Xtreme Ink Tattoo Studio
When looking for a tattoo studio in the Petaling Street vicinity, Xtreme Ink Tattoo Studio usually comes up as the popular choice and go-to. Here, you’ll be in Dalvir’s expert hands; a man who’s been inking others for over a decade now. He was even part of the Tattoo Malaysia Expo in 2019, creating amongst many other local and international artists.
Dalvir’s best work is black and grey realism, although he is also incredibly skilled in other art styles. Free hand patterns, portraits, animals, or scenery, you name it! When you visit his studio in Petaling Street, it’ll be hard for you to miss the instantly recognisable façade filled with photos of tattoos he’s done over the years. INK-credible!
Address: 25, Ground floor, Jalan Petaling, Chinatown, 50000 Kuala Lumpur
Contact: +6010 666 5056
