Japanese Tattoos

Tattoo styles come and go, but one style that has been ingrained in culture and history throughout the centuries is traditional Japanese or Irezumi.

If you’re considering getting a Japanese tattoo, be prepared to sit for a long time, as they are a work of art, and your skin is the canvas!

Tattoo styles come and go, but one style that has been ingrained in culture and history throughout the centuries is traditional Japanese or Irezumi.

If you’re considering getting a Japanese tattoo, be prepared to sit for a long time, as they are a work of art, and your skin is the canvas!

History of Japanese Tattoos

Originating during the Edo period (1603-1867), Japanese-style tattoos are rooted in folklore, featuring heroes from the Suikoden and mythological, including creatures of legend, characters from the Japanese language and tsunami waves.

Traditional Japanese tattoos are not just for the Yakuza (gangsters); in the same way, traditional Americana tattoos are not just for sailors or criminals. However, Irezumi was born from covering up tattoos that Japanese criminals received in prison. To that end, tattooing was associated with the Yakuza mafia, which led to the practice being outlawed until 1948.

By the end of the 17th century, the practice of penal tattooing had died out and was replaced with other forms of punishment. But the art of decorative Irezumi has proven eternal.

Characteristics of Japanese Tattoos

Unlike many tattoos, where it’s hard to decipher what they mean, Japanese tattoos are characterised by boldness and readability that easily explain the piece.

This is achieved through the characteristics of

  • High contrast
  • Strong, bold line work
  • A background that both complements and contrasts the foreground
  • Dynamic shapes and positions
  • Where the tattoo is placed on the body

Symbols and Meanings in Japanese Tattoos

Popular symbols in Japanese tattoos include

Dragon
Japanese dragon tattoos are one of the most popular symbols in Japanese culture. Known to protect and guard families and homes, Japanese dragon tattoos also represent happiness, freedom and good luck.
Tiger
Another famous animal symbol in Japanese culture, tiger Japanese tattoos symbolise power, strength and masculine energy.
Snake
Japanese snake tattoos are believed to protect the wearer against illness or misfortune.
Phoenix
Very common in Asian cultures, the phoenix represents rebirth and new beginnings. A Japanese phoenix tattoo symbolises a new chapter in the wearer’s life or achieving their goals.
Koi fish
This symbol represents good luck, perseverance and strength. Any Japanese koi fish tattoo will be depicted swimming upstream to show how the wearer has overcome challenges.
Crane
In Japanese culture, the crane is the bird of happiness. Living for one thousand years, the crane symbolises longevity and good fortune.
Frog
In Japan, frogs are symbols of good luck and fortune. Individuals often get Japanese frog tattoos to bring good luck or wealth into their lives.
Samurai warrior
One of the most iconic symbols in Japanese culture is the samurai warrior. Representing discipline, honour and loyalty, those with samurai warrior tattoos demonstrate their warrior spirit and how they’ve overcome challenges.
Geisha
Geisha girls have an important history in Japan as entertainers. They symbolise femininity, grace and attractiveness. Geisha girl tattoos are often large and detailed, with the back being the best placement.
Waves
Japanese wave tattoos symbolise life and strength. They are a reminder that, like water, life comes in ebbs and flows, and it’s your choice to accept the changes or situations you find yourself in.
Lotus
Japanese flower tattoos with lotus flowers are very common. Meaning the same thing in all Asian cultures: a lotus tattoo represents enlightenment, rebirth and purity. Individuals with lotus flower tattoos have them as a reminder of the challenges they’ve overcome or those they’ve yet to overcome.
Cherry blossoms
In Japanese culture, cherry blossoms serve as a reminder of the fleeting nature of life and accepting the beauty of things that aren’t permanent.

Are you thinking about getting a Japanese tattoo? Book an appointment with your nearest Celebrity Ink studio to sit down with an artist to discuss your tattoo and how we can create a beautiful piece of art.

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