30 TRENDY CHINESE TATTOOS THAT YOU WILL LOVE

Chinese characters, with their intricate strokes and deep cultural significance, have become increasingly popular for tattoos. Whether you’re drawn to their aesthetic appeal or seeking a meaningful symbol, Chinese tattoos offer a unique way to express yourself. In this article, we’ll explore 30 trendy Chinese tattoos that will inspire you. From classic proverbs to modern calligraphy, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive in and discover the captivating world of Chinese tattoo art!

HISTORY OF CHINESE TATTOOS

Tattooing has a long history in China, where it is referred to as Ci Shen, meaning “to make punctures in the body.” Despite its ancient roots, tattoos have never been widely accepted in Chinese culture. Historically, they were viewed as a form of bodily defacement, with tattooing often associated with criminals as a method of marking those deemed undesirable.

Even today, tattoos carry a significant stigma in China, commonly linked to crime and criminality. While mainstream Chinese society lacks a strong tradition of tattooing, certain minority groups, such as the Dai, Drung, and inhabitants of Hainan Island, take great pride in their tattooing heritage.

In contrast, Chinese tattoos have gained popularity in the Western world, particularly those featuring Chinese characters. This trend stems not from traditional practices but rather from an appreciation for the artistry associated with these symbols. However, many individuals who opt for these tattoos may not fully understand the meanings behind the characters, posing a risk of having undesirable phrases or symbols permanently inked on their bodies. Therefore, it is essential to conduct thorough research on any Chinese characters or symbols before committing to a tattoo to ensure it conveys the intended message.

TYPES OF CHINESE TATTOOS

Chinese characters and symbols are indeed popular choices for tattoos, but there are many other symbols that represent Chinese culture, even if many people in China may not choose to have them inked on their bodies.

In addition to characters, Chinese astrology plays a significant role in tattoo designs. The twelve Chinese zodiac signs include the tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog, pig, rat, and ox. You can personalize your tattoo by selecting your birth sign and adding the corresponding month in Chinese characters beneath it for added significance.

If you’re fond of astrology but prefer a more traditional zodiac symbol like Aries, Pisces, Leo, or Virgo, you can still incorporate these by using Chinese characters alongside them.

Dragons are another popular symbol in Chinese tattoos, particularly in Western culture, where they are often celebrated for their powerful and mystical connotations.

PLACEMENT OF CHINESE TATTOOS

The placement of your tattoo can vary significantly depending on its design. For character tattoos, you have numerous options, including your chest, wrist, foot, ankle, neck, arm, leg, or back. Some people prefer larger tattoos, while others opt for smaller ones; many women tend to choose more delicate designs.

Dragons, on the other hand, are typically best suited for medium to large sizes and look particularly striking on the chest or back. Zodiac signs can also be done in various sizes and can be placed in any of the same locations as character tattoos, allowing for plenty of flexibility in your design choices.

CHINESE TATTOO DESIGNS AND IDEAS

CHINESE DRAGON TATTOOS

CHINESE TATTOOS FOR WOMEN

CHINESE TATTOOS FOR GUYS

CHINESE LETTER TATTOOS

CHINESE TATTOO SLEEVE

CONCLUSION

As you explore the 30 trendy designs featured in this article, remember that the most important aspect of a tattoo is its personal significance. Choose a character or phrase that resonates with you and reflects your unique journey. With careful consideration and thoughtful design, a Chinese tattoo can be a beautiful and lasting addition to your body art collection.

50 INTERESTING COOL TATTOOS THAT YOU SHOULD TRY

If you’re seeking tattoo inspiration or simply want to explore some of the most creative and well-executed designs, r/tattoo and r/tattoos are the perfect subreddits to dive into.

These vibrant online communities are packed with enthusiasts showcasing their own ink, along with stunning designs from talented artists worldwide. From delicate watercolor floral pieces to intricate geometric animal portraits and bold, classic skulls, there’s something for everyone, no matter your style. Keep scrolling to explore our curated selection of standout content from these subreddits!

A Bobby Pin

‘Pan’s Labyrinth’ Tattoo

Got My Foot Done By Castlebasas In La, California

Left Healed , Right Fresh. Both Will Be Touched Up

A TATTOO By Shinya At Studio Muscat, Tokyo

Geometric/Forest/Nature Theme

Tiger On The Chest By Manh Huynh At Freedom Inks, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

I Had My Cat Tattooed As An Astrocat!

My Shin By Mike Boyd

Mario Goes To Work – Mat Frankin, Tat Franklin Studios / Columbus, Ohio

Leonardo Da Vinci Done In Istanbul, Turkey

Dark Floral Sleeve By Jacob, An Artist At Til Death Denver

Courage Tattoo

Flowers Done At First Class Tattoo, NYC

Very Fine Ear Piece Done By Kevin At Black Bear Ink

Moon Goddess By Cam Pohl (Lansing Mi)

Done By Erin Chance At Unkindness Art In Richmond Va

My Chest Done Yesterday By Blum, Paris France !

Freehand Retouch/ Redesign By Omar Hunter, Guadalajara, Mexico

Embroidery Flower Tattoo By Ksu Arrow

My Grandma (77 Years Young) Just Got Her First Tattoo! “It Didn’t Hurt At All”

Winnie The Pooh And Friends By Ashley June At 522 Tattoo Just North Of Seattle

Kimono Inspired Geo/Spirograph Piece Done By @nissaco In Japan, Osaka

In Utter Awe At This Japanese Back Piece Done By South Korean Artist, Zumiism

Clarinet Designed By My Father And Done By Pascal Guimond At Sinister Skin In Port Moody Bc

Done By John Tarrao At Stone’s Throw Tattoo In Berwyn, Pa. Phill Suburb

Octopus 

Made By Mentat Gamze At Studio Aureo, Rome (Italy)

Some Gnarly 3rd Degree Burn Scars With A Fire Dragon By Adam Sky, Morningstar Tattoo, Belmont, California

Eastern European Folk Art Tattoo With Pigeons

Something Creative With Ugly Shoulder Scar

A Crazy Creature Out Of Construction Paper

Honey Bees For A Pair Of Married Beekeepers

Entropy By Cavan@gritnglory, NYC

An Actual Wine Stain

2.500 Years Old Tattoo

Tattoo By Alba, Long Story Tattoo, Prague 

By Hannah Flowers Of No Regrets In London UK

Scar “Cover Up” I Did The Other Day. Now She’s Got Her Best Friend Looking Back At Her 

Fish Bones, Done By Trevor Varem, Mission Tattoo Parlour, Calgary Alberta

Little Trash Cat By Zzizziboy In Seoul, South Korea

Done By Chris Rigoni At Bloodlines Ink In Perth, Western Australia

My Grandma & Grandpa – By Eli Wood At Lombard Street Tattoo In Portland!

Golden Balloon Dog Made By Pony Lawson At My Shop Mayday! Tattoo Co In Chicago

My Brother, My Sister And Me (Triplets) Finally Decided To Get Our First Tattoo

Wildflowers By Jing From Jing’s Tattoo Studio In Flushing, NY

Calvin And Hobbes Embroidery Patch By Duda Lozano In Sao Paolo, Brazil

By Yeonno In Hongdae, Seoul Korea

My Dad Died On December 15, 2016. Today, I Got A Tattoo