My experience with SJT could not come with higher regards.  The entire process from collecting my information to research my personal symbols to arriving in California and sitting in the chair for the 1st session was easy and welcoming.   Highly recommend SJT if you're looking for the top artist to do your Filipino tribal tattoo. Read Less

I traveled 5+ hours on a 4-day mini vacation to Southern California specifically to get my tattoos done at this spot, which was all worth it. I got my forearms done by Nate, a true perfectionist when it comes to his work. I was also fortunate enough to witness the rest of the artists do their magic. The artists in Spiritual Journey have set the standards so high in regards to talent and skill that it would be impossible to go anywhere else for tattoo work. If you're considering getting your first (or next tattoo), and you want to get in touch with your Filipino heritage and culture, this is definitely the place to visit. Read Less

I've known about Spiritual Journey Tattoo for a while since my friend got her Filipino tribal tattoos here. A lot of research went into her tattoo including discovering which region and tribe her family ancestors were from. This would help guide the tattoo design. They are used for protection and that's about all they can say about it. It's done with much reverence and love of culture and history. The tattoo artists are trained in poke and tapping style as well as modern machine techniques. I'm not completely sure what the Four Waves represent but only tribal members have that specific tattoo. On my recent trip to Los Angeles, my friend asked if I wanted her son to tattoo me. I didn't know he started his apprenticeship there. I was maybe his 12th tattoo. It was a simple wave design around my ankle using the poke method. The single needle is tied to a pair of chopsticks. Yes, chopsticks! He then proceeds to poke and pop the needle out of my skin. You can hear the pop if you listen closely.  It didn't hurt much. Just one spot but nothing bad at all. The healing processes didn't seem to exist. I didn't peel, or not that I noticed. The wave took about one hour to complete and he went over it again. A couple of weeks later the tattoo looks a bit darker. I now have a really cool story to share about my ankle tattoo. There will be a follow-up visit as Joseph had a larger design in mind incorporating some Aztec flower symbolism. I really appreciate how they care so much about preserving their culture and adding my culture in to my design. I was honored to be one of his first tattoos. He is now traveling the world to different tattoo conventions learning and sharing. I can't wait to go back. Read Less

Got my first tattoo here. Everyone was nice and accommodating. I did lots of research on where to get a traditional Filipino tattoo and this is the place. I already got an appointment for my next tattoo! Read Less

Best first experience ever! I received my 16th tattoo with them and was so grateful for the experience. I have been an avid follower of the shop and the tribe for years and have always wanted to get a tattoo from them, especially since I am so passionate about my Filipino-Polynesian-Spanish roots. I already have several Polynesian tattoos for my Poly roots but I have always wanted a legit Filipino tribal tattoo from them to honor my Filipino ancestry. My wife and I went to the first Tribal Tuesday and we both got handpoke tattooed from Nicolette, a wonderful artist and a beautiful soul! And we met several other of the artists and tribe members. Elle and the entire crew were so welcoming and we felt like we were with family. For the longest time, my wife and I have been looking for the artists to make our tribal tattoo dreams come true to honor our roots. And after our experience at Spiritual Journey Tattoo, we know we finally found them. We will definitely be getting more tattoos from them to complete our pieces and to make our dream of honoring our roots through our tattoos a reality. Maraming maraming salamat Spiritual Journey and Tatak ng Apat na Alon! Mabuhay kayong lahat!! Read Less

I wish the I could give more than five stars but I cannot.My daughters and I wanted to get matching tattoos with Hawaiian design elements that my oldest daughter designed. It was important to us that we chose a place that cared not only about tattoos but the meaning of a cultural tattoo. We talk to a few shops, even one that was recommended. The artist didn't know the true meaning of the symbols and he told us that the design was too intriguing cate, that only one element would work. So our search continued until we found Spiritual Journey. We set a consultation with Elle to discuss the design and elements. While they specialize on Philippine Tribal designs Elle knew the Hawaiian designs and discussed the with us. Everyone working there came out to look at the design and talk to us. We could feel a joy and warmth. We set the appointment with Nate, sent them the design for them to create the stencil  for the tattoos. Nate did a fantastic job. The environment was a quant family feel. I can not recommend them enough. Oh, and they did the tattoos with all of the design elements. Read Less

Great and friendly group of artists. During the process of getting my full Filipino tribal sleeve I have learned alot of my heritage in the process.  I recommend Spiritual Journey Tattoo to anyone wanting to connect with their Filipino heritage and ancestry through tattooing. Read Less

I wish I could give SJT more than 5 stars because they truly went above and beyond for me. I flew in from Boston for a work event, and was only in town for 24 hours. They were fully booked and I came in as a walk-in, and they were so kind and generous to fit me in for a tattoo that took about 45 minutes. Nate saw a drawing I wanted but used his expertise to make necessary changes. His line work is remarkable, and my tattoo came out beautiful. I got a Pilipino sun tattoo, and I absolutely wanted to have the work done in the right way. Everyone was friendly, kind, and made me feel so welcome. I'm definitely coming back (and will be sure to book way in advance). Read Less

Get more than a tat, receive a transfer of knowledge of our ancestors and genuine symbol from the ancients. Authentic revival of ancient Filipino Tattoos. Decades of research through print, oral history and spiritual journey to the mountain village of last of the Kalinga tattoo practitioner (high priestess) Whang-Od, . Knowledge supplemented by collection of authentic artifacts.   Elle and Zel walk the talk. Shop décor transports you to tribal place while the immaculate setting and gives confidence in a safe and healthy tattoo practices. Artists are cool and music woke. More than getting a tat, a spiritual journey! Read Less

Had a wonderful experience at this establishment.  Elle and the tribe was very welcoming and patient with me, a newbie.  Elle was very helpful working with his guest tattoo artist from Papeete, Philippe Aukara.  I walked out with a piece that exceeded my expectations. Read Less

Love this place and the people ! Been getting my Micronesian tribal tattoos here, and I'll never regret discovering this shop and meeting these guys ! All the artists here are amazingly talented, knowledgeable, and do a great job of making you feel like you were family. I also love the energy of this shop especially more-so than most places. And I've had nothing but wonderful experiences. Would not hesitate to recommend Elle and the crew to anyone interested in tribal ink ! Read Less

Got my Philippine Sun and Air Force symbol. Been wanting one for awhile and I chose Spiritual Journey to make this happen. I even asked them to throw in their tribal flare into my tattoo and I was blown away with the results. More than what I expected. I'll be back for sure to get my whole shoulder done. Thank you guys. Read Less

I got my first tattoo and I love it. In still not done coming back for a 2nd session but this place is amazing. Everyone friendly and very welcoming. Great environment to be at.. definitely recommend it. Read Less

Wonderful experience getting my Support Standing Rock tattoo here.  The workmanship is excellent, and the people who work here are awesome!  I left feeling like I was part of a tattoo family with deep roots. Read Less

I have been holding onto my chart for the past 2 years. I live in Washington (State), and wanted to get it personally done by Elle and his chapter. During my short stay in L.A, I went went in only for a consultation, but Elle sort of convinced me (alongside my family) to get it then and there. We chopped it up over Starbucks and boom, my family, history, roots, tattooed on my arm. It all worked out, I'm happy with the outcome. Thanks Elle! Read Less

I checked these guys out a little over a week ago to ask about getting a tattoo done in baybayin and even though they asked if I'd rather get a traditional tribal since they didn't do baybayin much (and that it wasn't Filipino), I still had them put me down on their calendar for 5/16 in the evening. Since I had seen them call up a customer before their appointment to check and see if they were coming, I waited until ~4PM yesterday for them to call, but I got nothing so I called myself; they said that they had a pretty big project and wouldn't be able to fit me in today, even if I headed out right at that moment and waited. I had to scramble for an hour to find a Filipino artist in LA because I needed my tattoo done on this particular day. So, even though I didn't actually get a tattoo done by these guys, it kind of sucks I had to go through all of that. Read Less

I've had nothing but positive experiences here since the first time I walked in the door. They helped me plan and draw out my idea....and it was spot on. Jazmine who tattoed me was very light handed and totally nailed it! I would totally go here again. Read Less

I love this shop and will not go anywhere else for my tribal tattoos. I was a walk in and they took me no problem. I got to sit and talk to my artist before he tattooed me which was awesome. By the time I left I felt like family. They are so nice and so welcoming. Not to mention my Tahitian tribal tattoo turned out beyond amazing. My overall experience was great and i plan on sending all of my friends there for their tribal tattoos. Read Less

If you are looking for tattoo artists that understand your culture and are amazing artists that can do pretty much anything, then you've found the right place. Elle and the tattoo family at Spiritual Journey make sure that you are taken care of and come out with a tattoo that you will be proud to wear, period! Go check them out! Read Less

Have been here on three separate occasions... I've had work done by Elle & Zel.  Both phenomenal artists and full of knowledge!  Have recommended a few friends to check it out.  I love more then a 2hr drive away and wouldn't got anywhere else for my tribal work. Read Less

I have been tatted by Ramon who did my flower, he blended the most beautiful earthy red, Zel who did my entire hip piece in one sitting and had the lightest hands and smoothest lines, jasmine who also had the light hand and was very thorough, and elle who has done my chest piece and designed all of my tribal pieces. I do have other tattoos that I will have to get touched up so that the rest of my tatts looks as amazing as the ones ive gotten done here. I would never ever ... EVER go or recommend anyone else. They do not bull shit you just to get money. They're extremely careful and amazing at their tattooing. And they're really straight foward with you, which is what you need because it is a permanent tattoo. Ive never seen anyone be anything but happy after being tatted here. Im, of course, going back again :) Read Less

This shop has become a staple location for amazing ink, piercings, and a great family - style vibe. I am proud to say I've received 99.9% of my tattoos here, and it's always a great experience. I'll break it down this way:Location: Spiritual Journey is located in a shopping center off of Knott and Katella. There's ample parking so no worries on that front. Theme/Atmosphere: When you enter the shop, it literally feels like being on a tropical island in the middle of Metropolis. The designs on the wall to the books on the shelf are dedicated to indigenous artwork and culture ranging from the Philippines to Mexico. There's always a family - styled culture and everyone is always friendly. Artistry: Having joined the the Tribe back in 2008, I knew I found a great organization that thrives on the resurgence of culture by the spreading of knowledge to the buzzing of tattoo guns. It really is an amazing experience to be tattooed here. So come on down and join the family! Read Less

This shop has become a staple location for amazing ink, piercings, and a great family - style vibe. I am proud to say I've received 99.9% of my tattoos here, and it's always a great experience. I'll break it down this way:Location: Spiritual Journey is located in a shopping center off of Knott and Katella. There's ample parking so no worries on that front. Theme/Atmosphere: When you enter the shop, it literally feels like being on a tropical island in the middle of Metropolis. The designs on the wall to the books on the shelf are dedicated to indigenous artwork and culture ranging from the Philippines to Mexico. There's always a family - styled culture and everyone is always friendly. Artistry: Having joined the the Tribe back in 2008, I knew I found a great organization that thrives on the resurgence of culture by the spreading of knowledge to the buzzing of tattoo guns. It really is an amazing experience to be tattooed here. So come on down and join the family! Read Less

Awesome shop! Wonderful shop, great crew!They are the foremost experts in traditional tribal tattooing this side of the pacific. Been going to them for years. You not only leave with an awesome tattoo, you leave with tons of info on tribal tattooing.If youre not into tribal arts, they do amazing traditional and contemporary tattoos. They also have great artist from around the world coming in all the time! Stop reading this and check them out now! Foreals... now... Read Less

This is the place to get your traditional tribal on! Dope environment to be in, layed back people, artists, and chill music bumpin while your gettin your tat. This place has everything you need in a tatau shop. Swing by there, show some love, and get tatted up while your at. Seriously awesome work done by these guys. Lesss get it!!! Read Less

I have gotten 9 of my 11 tattoos done here!!  They are amazing! Great work, and great atmosphere. I have also brought some of my friends here and they are looking forward to their sessions with them in the future. Special shout out to Al and Elle, they are so nice and make you feel at home! Thanks guys keep up the great work! Read Less

Love this place. Highly recommended! EVERYONE is so friendly and helpful. Shop is impeccably clean, which is so important. Love all the decor (I want it for my place). Thanks Elle and Al ... you're the bestest eva! Al is great - he always made sure I was okay and is incredibly talented!!! He was very patient with me. Al answered all questions and concerns I had. He took his time to make sure everything was the way I wanted it to be.  I am so happy with what I got! It is absolutely beautiful. I have gotten so many compliments.  I would definitely go back! If you want to be treated well and in the end have an amazing piece.... go to Spiritual Journey! Read Less

I recently had my very first tattoo done at Spiritual Journey and I couldn't be happier.This tattoo was 20 years in the making. I didn't want any, "off the shelf" or "from the book" design. I wanted something very deep in meaning, art that I can tell a story of generations. I was a big fan of Hawaiian/Polynesian designs but being of Philippine descent, I didn't feel it was appropriate for me. I thought about getting Alibata/Babayin but I was convinced that ancient Filipinos had to have some type of tattoo art like the ancient Polynesians.Fast forward 20 years, marriage and two children later. Last year, I found myself searching for Philippine tattoos on the internet and a search pointed me to Tatak Ng Apat Na Alon Tribe (Mark of the Four Waves). I was so intrigued I completed the online questionnaire and submitted it. While waiting for a response, I did more searching and found that a Philippine tattoo revival existed and was growing in interest. Unfortunately, most of the tattoo shops that did this work were too far to travel to.Weeks later, I received a response from the Four Waves indicating that my patterns were ready AND that there was a new shop called, Spiritual Journey Tattoo and Tribal Gallery in Stanton, a mere 30 miles from me. I called the shop and made an appointment. Though a little apprehensive because it was my first time setting foot in a tattoo shop let alone getting one, I showed up at my appointment.Here, I met Elle. Elle made me feel at ease. He's extremely knowledgeable not only of Philippine markings and their meanings but of Philippine history. Speaking to him reminded me about my heritage and how proud I am to be a Filipino. He gave a brief history about Philippine tattoos and gave a tour of his shop which is adorned with Philippine artifacts which he's collected over the years. The shop is very clean and colorful. It's practically a museum.He explained the tattoo process and most importantly he explained what my markings represented.I was impressed by his ability to freehand the patterns. No template or stencil or transfer paper needed. I thought, "This guy is a pro."  I was taken away after the designs were completely laid out with a simple marker and surgical pen. I would have been happy walking out of the shop, as-is. Elle mentioned that Sam will be doing the tattooing and will be arriving any minute. I was a little surprised that Elle wasn't going to do it but I trusted him.In walks, Sam Flores. I couldn't help but to think, "What is a Hispanic guy doing Philippine tattoo revival?" Don't let this guy fool you. He is a master at his craft.Before the process began, Sam described the process and what I expected to feel. He and Elle even offered lunch/dinner. Although I declined, Sam mentioned that I was welcome to any snacks or water. I thought that was very accommodating of him.Throughout the process, Sam and Elle checked to see how I was doing. I had great conversations with both on a variety of topics. As I was getting inked, visitors were coming in the shop and Elle was quick to talk about the shop. There was even a group that drove from Bakersfield just to see the shop because they had heard about it.Several hours later, Sam was done. I couldn't be happier with the experience and the results. Elle is an expert in design and history. He is a master at the ancient art of, "hand poking." He is even featured in National Geographic. I can't say enough about Sam. His method and vision make his art incredible. Elle feels his shading is tops.Price-wise, what you get for the price is an outstanding value. I've spoken to friends who have tattoos and based on my numerous designs and how long it  took to complete, they can't believe how much I paid. Whether it's your first tattoo or 50th tattoo, I highly recommend Spiritual Journey Tattoo and Tribal Gallery where I plan to get a second set of patterns done soon. Philippine tattoo revival is alive and well in Stanton. Read Less

I have been to tattoo shop all over the world and this place is spot on. Friendliest and most knowlegable cats I've met. The Gallery says it all. even if your not looking to get work done I highly suggest checking some historical art, photos, traditional tattoo tools from the home land and a quick educational session by all the knowledgable staff.   I have been waiting a few years to get my sleeve and on my first visit I was blown away. First of all Elle Festin reseached my back round which is of GREEK descent and found the most amazing Athenian designs that are all connected to my heritage. I couldn't even wait to see what my journy would be like on this one.  It was so hard to pic what artist to work with. I vibed out with this cat Vince who works there, who I'm deffinetly going to be sitting down with him at some point. I felt like he was family.  I couldn't wait. I made my appointment with this cat Seymour, who I truely feel like I made a new friend. I can't tell you how skilled this cat is. I got prepped up and had some drawings done by EANI who was truely a beautiful soul and helped me settle into my journey.  Being an artist my self I was so inspired at this point. I felt right at home. No janky Tottoo chairs here. Full on luxery at its finest. At the end of my session I felt such a connection with the staff. I truely was so happy with the work and the new friends I made. Looking forward to my next visit. If your looking to get some tribal work done do your self a favor and go in for a visit before you decide to go anywhere eles. This is the real deal holyfield guys!I can thank you guys enough for the experience.Much Love,Konstadinos "Cocoe" Read Less

Tribal MarkingsThe four waves tribe (tatak ng apat na alon) has stretched out their roots and planted a new tattoo studio in the city of Stanton.  They thrive & specialize in Filipino Tribal and their authentic tapping technique. They also offer up their expertise in other types of tribal art from Polynesia & Micronesia.This joint totally gives off a Bahay Kubo (Filipino Grass Hut) feel. Decorated to fit its style and image, Spiritual Journey Tattoo is as good as it gets without spending a dime on a plane ticket to the motherland. You'll find sweet staff members (some not so sweet) & top notch artists. I must admit I DO have a favorite artist that works here. If you're looking for some quality work and awesome tribal designs, then I'd suggest hitting up my boy Allek (sounds like ALEC/ALEX). He's done all my friends & families tattoos and is currently working on mine. If you can't snag an appointment with him, I'm sure one of the other artists will do an equally amazing job! :) Read Less