Tattoo symbolism goes far past the person, notably in relation to Japanese Irezumi. In Japanese tattooing, each motif has a that means and every tattoo tells a narrative. Check out the meanings behind 10 of the preferred Japanese tattoo ideas within the gallery beneath, then tell us you probably have a Japanese tattoo within the feedback part on social media.
Dragon
Dragons are among the many hottest motifs in Japanese tattooing and so they symbolize steadiness, freedom and good luck. There are totally different meanings connected to dragon tattoos relying on the colour, with black dragons representing knowledge, inexperienced dragons representing nature and blue dragons representing benevolence.
Koi
In Japanese mythology, koi symbolize perseverance and adversity. In folklore, the koi swim upstream with solely the sturdy and voracious making it to the pond on the prime, the place they’re remodeled into dragons. They’re additionally recognized to symbolize good luck and fortune.
Tiger
It comes as no shock that tigers symbolize power, braveness and energy in Japanese tattooing. They’re additionally stated to guard the wearer towards unhealthy luck, unhealthy well being and evil spirits.
Foo Canine
Foo Canine are included in each Japanese and Chinese language mythology, greatest recognized for guarding the imperial palaces and temples. In tattooing, they symbolize prosperity, success and give protection to the wearer.
Phoenix
In lots of cultures around the globe, phoenixes share the identical story of rebirth and regeneration. They’ve made their mark on the world of Japanese tattooing, symbolizing transformation and triumph.
Hannya
Hannya tattoos are impressed by the masks of Noh theater, which symbolize the souls of ladies who’ve turn out to be demons out of jealousy or obsession. In tattooing, it is used to symbolize intense feelings and ache.
Peony
Peonies are extremely in style in Japanese tattooing and are used as background for bigger items or as stand alone designs. They’ve taken on many meanings in Japanese mythology, representing luck, wealth, the Aristocracy, bravery and honor.
Maple Leaf
Whereas cherry blossoms bloom all through the spring, autumns are all in regards to the Japanese maple bushes. Their leaves have been depicted in Japanese artwork, together with tattoos, for hundreds of years and symbolize magnificence, grace and class.
Lotus
Lotus flowers develop within the mud, stand up by way of the murky waters and bloom into stunning flowers on the floor. By way of this progress cycle, they’ve come to symbolize purity, enlightenment, regeneration and rebirth.
Fox
In Japanese tattooing, foxes are known as kitsunes and symbolize crafty intelligence and luck. A standard motif of a kitsune is the 9 tailed fox, which is thought for having the ability to shapeshift into the physique of a gorgeous lady to seduce males.
Cherry Blossom
Cherry blossoms are synonymous with Japanese tradition and bloom all through the nation through the spring. In tattooing, these flowers symbolize love, the feminine mystique and wonder.
