How To Get A Tattoo From Apo Whang Od?

In summary, if you’re planning to visit Buscalan, Philippines, you should know about Apo Whang-Od, the legendary Filipina artist who specializes in pagbabatok from the Kalinga province. The journey to getting tattooed by Apo Whang-Od is exciting and can be as exciting as the tattoo itself. The fees charged for tattoos go directly to the artist and her apprentices, helping to sustain their way of life.

Apo Whang-Od’s signature three-dot tattoo is priced between PhP300 and PhP1, 000 depending on the size and detail. It takes about 30 minutes to over an hour to finish the process. You can select your tattoo from a book and choose from whole body, sleeves, or small designs. To get to Whang-Od in Buscalan Village, you can use a Google map or visit the jump-off point at Buscalan with a P1, 000 fee per day for up to five people.

Apo Whang-Od’s 3-dot signature is the most painful due to her thicker needle than her apprentices. She is available at the jump-off point at Buscalan with a P1, 000 fee per day for up to five people. There are also several options for overnight stays in Buscalan, where she tattoos people regularly.

To get tattooed from Apo Whang-Od, take the Coda Lines and follow the instructions provided in this article. The path to getting a tattoo from Apo Whang-Od isn’t as hard as expected, but it just takes patience. If you’re planning to visit Buscalan, be sure to bring essential items, compare tour prices, and prepare for the journey.

In conclusion, getting a tattoo from Apo Whang-Od is an exciting and rewarding experience that supports the local community of Buscalan Village Kalinga.

How To Reach Apo Whang-Od – A Popular Tattoo Artist?

Our travel guide highlights the easiest route to Apo Whang-Od, the renowned tattoo artist based in Buscalan, Tinglayan, Kalinga, Philippines. While there are several ways to reach Kalinga from Manila, the simplest route is through Bontoc. You can conveniently purchase bus tickets to Bontoc online. Once in Bontoc, you can take a jeepney heading to Tinglayan or Tabuk, getting off at Bugnay (Saddle Point) for a fare of P80. The journey takes approximately 1. 5 hours. From Bugnay, visitors can either hike or take a habal-habal (motorbike) to the jump-off point leading to Buscalan Village. The hike is about an hour.

Before getting inked by the legendary Apo Whang-Od, known as the oldest Mambabatok and a National Living Treasure, it's essential to be well-prepared. The experience of receiving a tattoo is just as thrilling as the tattoo itself, covering various aspects including Whang-Od's tattoo pricing, necessary items to bring, tour price comparisons, her age, and whether she is still tattooing. This information helps ensure a smooth experience as you journey to Buscalan, which is celebrated for its traditional Kalinga tattoos.

Apo Whang-Od, aged 107, resides in the remote northern Philippines, where she's recognized internationally for her skill in the ancient Batok tattooing method. As the last remaining hand-tapped tattoo artist from the Butbut tribe, she continues to tattoo in Buscalan, which is considered a cultural heritage site. Her signature three-dot tattoo can take just 5 minutes, while a small tattoo may take up to 15 minutes, and a full sleeve might require a week-long stay in Buscalan. Tattoos are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Tips for reaching Buscalan include navigating through various transport options, including daily jeepney services from Sagada. However, the most recommended path involves taking Coda Lines to ensure a more efficient journey. Ultimately, visiting Apo Whang-Od offers a unique opportunity to engage with a living legend and experience the rich cultural heritage of Kalinga through its traditional tattoo artistry.

Why Did Apo Whang-Od Refuse To Do A Tattoo?

Apo Whang-Od, also known as Maria Oggay, is a 106-year-old traditional tattoo artist from the Kalinga tribe and is recognized as the last mambabatok. Her tattoos, which are an integral part of Kalinga culture, are created using a pomelo thorn and bamboo stick to hammer ink made from charcoal and water into the skin. Despite her fame attracting international travelers eager to receive her tattoos, she has specific designs that she refuses to do for tourists, as they are culturally significant to the Kalinga people alone.

The cultural significance of her art was highlighted when, during my visit, a woman in her 50s succumbed to a heart attack while hiking nearby. Given the remote location, first responders could not reach her in time. In mourning, Whang-Od chose not to perform any tattoos that day, emphasizing the respect held for her community and its traditions. Jake Verzosa recounted his experience of getting a tattoo from Whang-Od in 2009, where he exchanged brown sugar and a lighter for his markings.

As Whang-Od ages, her ability to tattoo has decreased, and she no longer performs full-sized tattoos herself. This change has led to concerns about her well-being, particularly as she was photographed sleeping during a public event, raising conversations about the potential exploitation of her status as an iconic artist. Obtaining her agreement to tattoo can be challenging, as it involves navigating language barriers and ensuring she feels comfortable with the request.

For some, visiting Whang-Od and experiencing the culture of the Butbut tribe is a deeply personal journey. Many arrive with no intention of getting tattooed, but rather to immerse themselves in the rich history and customs surrounding her work. However, should someone insist on receiving a tattoo, Whang-Od is adept at recognizing their limits and may refuse if she senses any discomfort. Ultimately, her art has become a symbol of a dying tradition, with her legacy being preserved and honored through the tattoos she selectively shares.

How Painful Is Apo Whang-Od'S Tattoo?

Getting a traditional tattoo from Apo Whang-Od is an intense experience, often described as feeling similar to being pricked by medical technicians when they extract blood. Specifically, the sensation resembles that of a thick pen-like instrument used to draw blood from fingers and lasts for about an hour. Yet, her signature three-dot tattoo is known to be particularly painful. Many who have had both machine tattoos and traditional batok tattoos assert that the latter, executed by Apo Whang-Od, is more agonizing. However, pain tolerance can vary among individuals, leading to differing opinions on the pain experienced.

In November 2017, I traveled to have a batok tattoo on my forearm, eager to document the experience, but faced challenges sharing photos and videos on Reddit. I gathered much information prior to the trip, including pricing, necessary travel items, comparisons of tour prices, Apo Whang-Od’s age, and her continued practice of tattooing. The hand-tap technique, known as batok, is inherently more painful than modern tattoo methods due to the repetitive tapping action used to embed ink into the skin with a thorn. Pricing for these tattoos varies widely based on size and design.

Apo Whang-Od, considered the last traditional tattoo artist or "mambabatok" of the Butbut Tribe from Buscalan Village in Kalinga, utilizes a pomelo thorn attached to a bamboo stick to apply intricate designs on her clients' skin. Each tattoo she creates holds significant meaning, reflecting personal stories, tribal affiliations, and spiritual beliefs. Observing her at work reveals a spectrum of reactions from visitors; some struggle with substantial pain while others seem to handle the discomfort more gracefully. Prior to my visit, many people who received tattoos from Apo had warned of the intense pain involved.

Indeed, receiving Apo Whang-Od's three-dot signature was more painful than anticipated, despite the process requiring only a few minutes. She employs a thicker needle than her apprentices, leading to experiences of significant pain that, in some cases, caused individuals to faint or even lose control of their bodily functions. The consensus among many is that traditional hand-tapping is significantly more painful than mechanical tattooing. It’s crucial for anyone considering this journey to mentally prepare and assess their pain tolerance.

For those brave enough to endure it, the process can be likened to being stung repeatedly by an ant, with occasional sharp pains that catch one off guard. After two weeks, I found that the tattoo had mostly healed, still mildly sore and itchy, completing a life-changing experience marked by both physical pain and deep cultural significance.

Can You Get A Traditional Tattoo From APO Whang Od?

Embarking on a journey to receive a traditional tattoo from the legendary Apo Whang Od has always been a dream of mine. Located in the remote village of Buscalan, Kalinga, the experience is not just about getting inked but immersing oneself in a culture rich in history and significance. My visit to Kalinga occurred during a summer outreach drive in 2015, a trip I had long anticipated. This region's cultural essence seemed profound, especially as many traditions risk fading away with time.

Apo Whang-Od, the oldest living mambabatok and a National Living Treasure, is renowned for her unique three-dot tattoo, priced at PHP 300. However, due to the influx of tourists, she has largely ceased to hand-tap main tattoos herself; instead, her talented apprentices, Grace and Elyang, have taken over this role. These younger tattoo artists are fully capable of creating intricate designs that represent Whang-Od's legacy. Although many tourists may expect to be tattooed by Apo directly, it's more common now to receive tattoos from her mentees, who continue to honor the traditional practices.

The experience of getting a tattoo in Buscalan is incredibly rewarding. Tattoo fees range broadly, depending on size and complexity, from PHP 300 to several thousand pesos. The funds directly support the artists and their local community, crucial for maintaining their way of life. The journey to Buscalan has also been made more accessible as the path is now paved, significantly reducing hiking time. However, visitors should still prepare for a challenging ascent through rice terraces, which is achievable for those of moderate fitness.

While it's true that one may not always get inked directly by Apo Whang-Od, her signature three-dot tattoo can still be obtained for an additional cost, ensuring authenticity and connection to this revered tradition. Getting inked by a member of her family or an apprentice not only upholds Filipino cultural heritage but also brings joy to the entire experience, often marked by the artists' warm personalities.

For those planning to visit, it's advisable to arrive early, especially if you wish to bear a tattoo from the legendary Whang-Od. Generally, budgeting for an overnight stay in Buscalan could range from PHP 6, 000 to PHP 8, 500, depending on various factors. Ultimately, receiving a traditional tattoo from this extraordinary lineage symbolizes bravery and cultural connection, making it an unforgettable journey worth undertaking.

This guide emphasizes both the cultural significance and practicalities of getting inked by the oldest traditional tattoo artist in the Philippines, ensuring that this remarkable experience is both meaningful and accessible.

Is Batok Painful?

The traditional practice of tattooing known as batok involves a painful process that only the bravest members of the tribes endure. Whang-Od, a renowned mambabatok, received her first tattoo at around 12 years old from a man named Whag Ay. Many who undergo this form of tattooing report that, while it does hurt, the discomfort is often overshadowed by the tattoo’s meaningful results. Comparatively, those who have experienced both hand-tapping and machine methods frequently claim that hand-tapping feels less painful—a sentiment echoed among various tribes across the Philippines, where different terms for tattooing are used, such as patik and buri. The pain of getting a batok can be likened to a persistent sting, more annoying than a toothache, and while patients may feel a piercing pain, they often describe it as bearable.

The traditional batok process employs a thorn attached to a bamboo stick, creating larger wounds compared to machine tattoos. Although pain is inevitable in tattooing, testimonials reveal varied experiences, with some people finding the method soothing. The after-effects include swelling and redness, which can persist for days, complicating movement in the tattooed area. Despite the pain, many participants express that the experience is worth it, citing the authenticity and cultural significance of the tattoo.

Despite its deep roots and cultural representation, the practice has faced exoticization, with some observers fixating on it as a defining element of Igorot culture while neglecting its broader context. Many who choose to get batok tattoos may not even grasp the full cultural implications and history of this traditional art, as contemporary perspectives sometimes undervalue its significance beyond mere decoration.

Individuals' pain thresholds vary greatly; thus, reactions to the tattooing process can differ widely. While some assert that batok is far more painful than modern methods, others argue the opposite, citing the hand-tapped technique's comparatively lower pain sensation. Each session can last several hours, and participants have described the pain leading them to bite their lips in an attempt to cope.

The healing process involves careful upkeep, requiring unscented soap and moisturizer, with individuals noting the experience's intensity. Where some may find the journey through pain daunting, others emerge valuing the unique storytelling and cultural legacy involved in their pain and artistry of batok. Ultimately, while the pain of traditional tattooing is undeniable, many appreciate the ritual's role in their identity, bonding them to their heritage in a deeply personal way.

How Painful Is A Kalinga Tattoo?

All tattoos involve pain, but the method of traditional Kalinga tattoos, known as batok, is particularly intense. The ink is a simple mix of charcoal and water applied to a thorn from a pomelo tree, which is then hammered under the skin with bamboo tools. The procedure is long and can lead to infections, showing the artistic skill involved in creating tattoos within this culture. While some argue that Kalinga tattoos are less painful than machine-made tattoos, others disagree. Tourists have been known to faint or have vastly different pain experiences.

Traditional designs feature geometric patterns and motifs representing the sun, rice terraces, and centipedes, each rich in cultural significance. The hand-tapped technique dates back thousands of years, serving both as a cultural expression and a deeply personal journey, particularly in the village of Buscalan. Whang-Od, a renowned tattoo artist, utilizes local plants in her craft, making the experience both painful and spiritual.

Aftercare for the tattoos requires attention, as they are permanent and represent the wearer's life journey. The sensation during the procedure has been likened to blood extraction, described as unbearably painful, with feelings of warmth created by the pounding action of the tools. First-time recipients have reported a heavy feeling on their skin, struggling to ignore the stinging sensation. The healing process involves dried skin and ink, which can fall off, causing additional discomfort.

Despite the pain, the allure of Kalinga tattoos attracts individuals from around the globe, who are captivated by the artistry and significance behind each design. Many contend that the pain level of traditional tattoos is ten to twenty times greater than that of machine tattoos, without the benefit of anesthesia. Nevertheless, the process can lead to numbness after repeated taps, allowing for some level of tolerability.

In conclusion, traditional Kalinga tattoos encapsulate a rich cultural heritage, combining artistry with a profound personal experience, despite—or perhaps because of—the intense pain involved in their creation.

How Long Does It Take To Get Apo Whang Od Tattoo?

Apo Whang-Od's signature three-dot tattoo has gained immense popularity in recent years, largely due to significant media exposure and social media. Travelers wishing to experience this unique cultural tradition can easily book tours that take them from Manila, the capital of the Philippines, to Buscalan Tattoo Village, a journey that typically lasts about 15 hours.

The time it takes to get a tattoo from Apo Whang-Od varies depending on the design. The famed three-dot tattoo can be completed in as little as five minutes, while a small, simple tattoo may take around 15 minutes. For more intricate designs such as a full sleeve tattoo, visitors might need to remain in Buscalan for an entire week. The trek to the village involves a substantial uphill and downhill climb, averaging 1 to 1. 5 hours, depending on the hiker's fitness level. My personal experience of the hike took about an hour, including three short breaks to rest.

Given the rising number of tourists eager to receive tattoos from this living legend, it is important to avoid potential pitfalls, such as ending up in Buscalan without meeting Whang-Od. Travelers are encouraged to do thorough research beforehand and ensure they have all necessary information to streamline their journey. It is noteworthy that Whang-Od may not always be the one doing the main tattoos due to her advanced age and the influx of visitors, and you may need to be patient to receive her signature mark—she typically only oversees the three-dot tattoos.

When planning a trip to Buscalan, understanding the cultural and historical significance of Kalinga tribal tattoos is essential. Aside from Whang-Od, who was awarded the Presidential Medal of Merit in 2024, several other tattoo artists in Buscalan can provide their own interpretations of Kalinga tattoo art.

The journey to Buscalan begins with either a bus or van ride from Manila to Bontoc or Tabuk, taking approximately 10–12 hours. Registration fees are relatively low, around PHP 100 for a three-dot tattoo, while additional costs such as guide fees may accrue—PHP 1000 per day or PHP 1500 overnight for groups of up to five people. It is advisable to bring a jacket for the cool bus air conditioning and chilly mountain nights.

While tattoos from Whang-Od are revered, younger artists in Buscalan also offer their services, costing between PHP 300 to 1, 000 depending on the size and detail of the design. These tattoos may take anywhere from 30 minutes to more than an hour to complete.

Travelers venturing from Baguio must first travel to Bontoc, engaging in a journey that can take 4-6 hours. However, overall, the trek to Buscalan can stretch from 12 to 14 hours, emphasizing the remote nature of the location, situated in Brgy. Buscalan, Tinglayan, Kalinga. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by beautiful scenery and might be accompanied by local guides, further enriching the cultural experience.

Planning is crucial to ensure a successful and fulfilling trip to visit Apo Whang-Od and her cultural heritage in Buscalan Tattoo Village. Your guide will assist you with the registration process and lead you through the intricacies of this unique journey, allowing unforgettable memories and authentic cultural experiences.

How Much Does It Cost To Get A Tattoo In The Philippines?

The cost of getting a tattoo in the Philippines varies significantly based on the design, size, and location of the tattoo shop. Prices generally start around ₱500 and can go up to ₱3, 500 or even higher for more intricate designs. For smaller tattoos, clients might pay between ₱500 to ₱1, 000, while larger and more complex tattoos can exceed ₱10, 000. Specific experiences, like getting inked by the renowned Apo Whang-od in Buscalan, can lead to a total expense of around ₱6, 000 to ₱8, 500, including an overnight stay and the cost of the thorn needle, known as gisi, which is priced at ₱100.

In metropolitan areas like Manila, the average cost of a small tattoo ranges from ₱2, 000 to ₱5, 000. For larger tattoos, including designs similar to Indian henna patterns, customers frequently inquire about pricing that aligns with both design complexity and size. Many tattoo artists suggest discussing the specifics with them to tailor the experience to the client’s budget and expectations.

Tattooing laws in the Philippines allow the practice, and pricing can start at ₱300 or ₱500 for smaller designs. For reference, a traveler tattoo or relatively simple designs could cost around ₱500, while larger, custom pieces may escalate to higher price brackets. However, potential clients should account for aftercare costs as well.

For those looking to understand pricing better, various tools and calculators exist to estimate the cost based on factors such as design complexity, size, color, and the artist's experience. Online platforms often include tips and tables with comparison prices drawn from past clients’ experiences, helpful for budget planning.

In conclusion, getting a tattoo in the Philippines entails a considerable range in pricing, impacted by multiple factors. Clients should prepare an estimated budget indicating design dimensions and complexity to facilitate discussions with their selected tattoo artist, ensuring an effective and satisfying tattoo experience.

What Does Three Dots Mean Tattoo Apo Whang Od?

In Buscalan, the story of Apo Whang Od, the last known "mambabatok," is well-known as she has passed the traditional art of tattooing to her blood relatives, Grace Palicas and Elyang Wigan. Apo Whang Od’s signature tattoo features three dots, which symbolize the three generations of mambabatoks: herself, Grace, and Elyang. As of 2022 and even before the pandemic, she no longer performs full tattoos, instead only offering her iconic three-dot design for P300.

Tourists can receive tattoos done either by Apo Whang Od or her apprentices, who are equally skilled. The registration area in Buscalan often sees visitors waiting to get inked, while the sensation of receiving a tattoo resembles the feeling of having blood drawn, with the traditional method using a large pen-like instrument.

Whang Od began her tattooing journey at 15, taught by her father, a master tattooist, making her an exception in a male-dominated tradition. In her later years, she chose only women as her apprentices. The three dots not only signify the current generation of tattoo artists but also represent continuity, as they echo the significance of the tradition rooted in ancient practices for headhunters and warriors. The simplicity of the three-dot tattoo belies its deep cultural heritage, as it connects the past, present, and future of the mambabatok lineage.

Thus, receiving a tribal tattoo from Apo Whang Od is considered one of the best cultural experiences in the Philippines, marking a connection to heritage and artistry that endures through generations.

How Long Does A Whang-Od Tattoo Take?

The process of getting a traditional tattoo from Apo Whang-Od can last anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on the design, with her iconic three-dot tattoo taking as little as 5 minutes and full sleeve tattoos potentially requiring a week in Buscalan for completion. With limited visit time of one or two days, many patients often face long waiting periods for a tattoo from Whang-Od. Two weeks after receiving my handpoke tattoo, I noticed it remaining slightly raised with scabbing in the puncture holes, highlighting the typical healing process.

This experience summarises essential details for prospective tattoo-seekers, covering factors like pricing, items to carry, tour price comparisons, Whang-Od's age, the currently available designs, and logistical inquiries about reaching Buscalan. Due to her advanced age, over 100 years as of 2022, Apo no longer performs larger designs, only administering her famed three-dot tattoo.

The journey to Buscalan can be extensive; for instance, I traveled a total of 14 hours by car from Manila, navigating through Baguio, which was particularly challenging in winter. Responses to common questions regarding the tattooing process provide insight into what to expect: after check-in and breakfast at your guest house, there will be some leisure time before lunch, followed by the tattoo session starting in the early afternoon.

The tattoos, which symbolize travelers, vary in price depending on detail, costing between 300 to 1, 000 PHP, and given that the process can take several hours, patience is crucial, as one may have to queue for their turn. Getting to Buscalan involves taking a bus to either Tabuk or Bontoc, which takes about 10-12 hours, in addition to a 30-45 minute trek from the drop-off point. This journey and the subsequent challenge in acquiring the tattoo are rooted in a deeper cultural pride, reclaiming a vibrant history rather than merely pursuing authenticity.

Lastly, proper tattoo aftercare is essential in ensuring healing, which for me took around 20 days, emphasizing that individual healing times can differ based on tattoo size and personal skin reactions.

How Much To Get A Tattoo From Whang-Od?

The cost of a tattoo from Apo Whang-Od starts at 300 PHP, while my second tattoo cost 1200 PHP. In total, I paid 2850 PHP or about $50 for my tattoos. Getting a tattoo from Whang-Od quickly is a rare occurrence; the typical starting price ranges from Php300 to Php500, with Whang-Od's signature tattoo usually priced at Php100. My traveler tattoo was 500 PHP, and I gave Whang-Od a 500 PHP tip as well.

Traditional tattooing can be painful, but personal experiences vary. In the summer of 2015, I visited Kalinga for an outreach drive, and immersing myself in such a unique culture was a profound experience. Many stories within the culture are slowly fading, and getting tattooed was a way to connect with that heritage.

The experience of getting inked by Apo Whang-Od or her apprentices, Grace and Elyang, is a major highlight. Prices range from PHP 300 to several thousand pesos, depending on tattoo size and design. You will need to register for a tattoo session, and there are additional costs involved: around Php 400 for homestay, Php 100 for the tattoo needle, Php 100 for a three-dot tattoo from Apo Whang-Od, and a registration fee of Php 100.

Batok tattoos' prices vary based on size and intricacy, starting at P300 for small designs and escalating to P50, 000 for full sleeves. At her advanced age, Whang-Od now focuses primarily on smaller designs. Generally, tattoo costs depend on design complexity, ranging from ₱500 to ₱3, 500. A thorn needle (gisi) costs about ₱100, which you need to purchase.

If you wish for just the signature three-dot tattoo by Apo Whang-Od, it will cost you PhP300, while small designs start at PhP300 and larger ones can go up to PhP50, 000. It is important to inquire about costs respectfully, without asking for the price outright. Tattoo costs typically begin between P500 to P3, 000 depending on size.

Planning to spend a night in Buscalan for your tattoo may require a budget of ₱6, 000 to ₱8, 500. Kids in Buscalan offer tattoos priced between 300 PHP to 1, 000 PHP, depending on size and detail, with the process taking anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour. Generally, prices are quite reasonable, with small tattoos around 300 PHP and larger tattoos costing more.

How To Get A Tattoo In Whang Od?

When planning a visit to Buscalan for a tattoo from Apo Whang-Od, it’s crucial to register immediately upon arrival due to high demand and long queues. There is often a waiting list, and you may find yourself getting inked the next day. I embarked on this journey in the summer of 2015 during an outreach in Kalinga, excited to immerse myself in the region’s rich culture, which is at risk of fading away. Receiving a tattoo from the oldest traditional Kalinga tattooist, Whang-Od, is deeply meaningful.

Whang-Od’s signature three-dot tattoo costs P300, and while she might not be available for all tattoo requests, her skilled apprentices, Grace and Elyang, are capable of providing similar works of art. Together, they preserve Whang-Od's legacy. It’s essential to prepare well, and resources are available that detail everything from pricing to tips for reaching Buscalan, ensuring you are ready for this cultural experience.

To get tattooed, you’ll need to travel to Buscalan, navigating through remote paths where local transportation options like motorbikes are available. It’s advisable to connect with locals at the Bugnay convenience store for assistance. The tattoo process varies in price; smaller designs can be as low as P300, whereas full sleeves might reach P50, 000, depending on complexity and size. Children from the village also offer tattoos for a price range of P300 to P1, 000, taking approximately half an hour to over an hour for completion.

Once you reach Buscalan, you’re greeted with native coffee—a warm welcome. The tattooing itself is a straightforward procedure involving traditional methods; Whang-Od combines soot from her cooking tools with water to create ink. Payments directly support the artists and community, helping sustain their way of life. This is not just a tattoo; it’s an opportunity to connect deeply with Filipino heritage and the artistic expression of the Kalinga people.

In summary, visiting Buscalan for a tattoo is about more than just body art; it’s an enriching cultural exchange steeped in history and tradition, allowing visitors to partake in the preservation of these fading stories through ink.