Photographer Chloé Jafé’s latest series uncovers the underground subculture of Yakuza women.

Although the notorious Japanese kriminal organization is embedded in the local culture, it is very hard to gain access to this world.

Hidden behind the country’s everyday business dealings, the Yakuza is defined as a man, so the women in this community have ambiguous roles which orbit their male counterparts.

To be able to reach and document these women, Jafé had to gain approval from the male Yakuza bosses first.

The project highlights the traditional “irezumi” a Japanese tattoo that covers part or most of the body, and is done by hand with a wooden handle and a needle.

This technique is an extremely painful process that can take years to complete, and is a test of the person’s tolerance.

https://www.bbc.com/reel/video/p0816p3b/the-secret-lives-of-yakuza-women

https://unrtd.co/media/chloe-jafe-yakuza-women-photo-series