Traditional Japanese motifs, designs, and stylistic elements continue to be a major source of inspiration for contemporary tattoo artists. Many artists enjoy blending classic symbols with modern touches, but one thing remains consistent across all these variations: the deep roots of “irezumi,” the art of traditional Japanese tattooing.
A HISTORY OF TATTOOING IN JAPAN
The history of tattooing in Japan spans centuries, with its origins seen in the tattooed faces of ancient clay figurines. These early representations indicate that tattooing was practiced as far back as the Jomon period. By the 7th century, tattoos evolved into a form of punishment, marking prisoners, courtesans, and criminals. This punitive practice persisted for over 1,000 years, shaping the initial role of tattoos in Japanese society.
In the 18th century, however, Japanese tattoo art underwent a transformation. Traditional tattoos, known as irezumi, became associated with vibrant and intricate designs, gaining popularity among lower social classes like laborers, peasants, and members of criminal organizations such as gangs. Despite the colorful, artistic nature of these tattoos, their association with the lower classes and their long history of use for punishment led to their eventual ban in Japan. Interestingly, tattooing was still permitted on foreigners, as a way to maintain a separation between the native population and outside influences.
SYMBOLISM IN JAPANESE TATTOOS
Japan is a land rich in symbolism, where every element of life, from nature to spirituality, holds deep significance. Rooted in Shintoism, the traditional religion that revolves around the belief in spirits and the worship of nature, many of Japan’s symbols reflect a connection to the natural world, where animals—both real and mythical—play a prominent role. Japanese tattoos, known for their intricate detail and vivid imagery, often embody a variety of themes, with each design holding a unique meaning.
DRAGON
One of the most iconic symbols in Japanese tattoo art is the dragon. Known for its majestic and mystical qualities, the dragon represents a wide array of values, such as power, justice, wisdom, and the ability to keep secrets. The dragon also symbolizes decisiveness and strength of character. Those who choose dragon tattoos are often seen as individuals who are not afraid to push beyond conventional limits, seeking to gain new knowledge and achieve greatness. The dragon’s deep-rooted meaning and dynamic presence make it a favorite motif in Japanese tattoo culture.
SNAKE
In Japanese culture, the snake is a symbol with complex and dual meanings. On one hand, it represents patience, calmness, and the ability to remain composed in challenging situations. On the other hand, it can also signify cunning and hypocrisy, reflecting negative traits in some interpretations.
Due to its somewhat ambiguous nature, snakes are rarely depicted as the central figure in Japanese tattoos. Instead, they are often paired with other symbols that carry positive connotations to counterbalance their more negative associations. For instance, a snake entwined with chrysanthemums is a common motif. In this context, the flowers act as a protective charm, symbolizing well-being, harmony, and a shield against conflicts, illness, and misfortune. This pairing highlights the snake’s ability to protect and guide while mitigating any darker meanings.
TIGER
The tiger in Japanese tattoo art is a powerful symbol, representing strength, courage, and a complex personality. Tigers are often depicted in various poses, each holding distinct meaning regarding the wearer’s character.
- Resting tiger: A tattoo featuring a resting tiger symbolizes wisdom gained through life experiences, composure, and inner strength. It reflects a person who has earned respect through their calm demeanor and steady resolve.
- Aggressive tiger: In contrast, an aggressive tiger tattoo signifies a person who has faced and overcome hardships. This representation shows a fierce individual, unafraid to fight for their beliefs and pursue their goals relentlessly, no matter the obstacles.
KOI CARP
Despite their small size, these fish symbolize masculine strength, family happiness, and resilience for the Japanese. The koi carp is believed to bring luck to its owner. The larger the design, the stronger the positive impact on the person’s life. A pair of fish represents harmony in a relationship between a man and a woman. If the koi carp is depicted swimming in a turbulent water flow, it means the wearer is ready to overcome obstacles and can withstand them. A calm water setting signifies achieved success and pride.
BAKU
A mythical monster with the eyes of a rhinoceros, the paws of a tiger, and the trunk of an elephant. Despite its frightening appearance, this creature protects people from nightmares and illnesses.
DEMONS
Demons hold a prominent place in traditional Japanese tattoo art, often drawn from epic tales and legends. These mythical beings, often depicted with vivid and colorful features, represent more than just fearsome creatures—they embody transformation and protection. According to Japanese folklore, wicked individuals can transform into demons, with many once being human themselves. Tattoos featuring these figures are believed to offer protection against negativity and evil forces:
- Raijin – The god of thunder in Japanese culture, Raijin is portrayed as a horned demon with black skin, often shown tearing a scroll with his teeth. As a protector of the Buddhist faith, Raijin is considered a benevolent deity who drives away evil spirits.
- Oni-Ondeko – Known as the dancing demon, Oni-Ondeko is depicted with three comma-like symbols called mons, representing balance and harmony between male and female energy. This demon is a symbol of prosperity, abundance, and good harvests.
- Rokurokubi – These creatures appear human by day, but at night, they can stretch their necks to terrifying lengths and transform their appearance to frighten others. The concept of transformation makes them both mysterious and fearsome figures in Japanese folklore.
- Jankuy – A demon fighter and warrior who took his life through suicide but vowed to protect people. Jankuy’s transformation into a demon is a symbol of redemption and protection. Tattoos of Jankuy, often seen battling Oni, are regarded as powerful charms that ward off evil and safeguard the wearer.
MASKS
Masks are a significant and enigmatic element in Japanese tattoo art, symbolizing the duality of nature and hidden emotions. They are often depicted with a sinister grimace, but this expression conveys strength and resilience rather than baseless aggression, acting as a shield against adversaries. In Eastern mythology, masks are not just decorative but carry deep meanings, representing protection, wisdom, and the complexities of the human experience. The most common types of masks in Japanese tattoos include demonic masks, Hannya masks, and samurai masks.
- Oni Mask: Oni, demons often shown with enormous fangs and horns, are attendants to the God of Death. While they are protectors of the righteous, they bring misfortune to the wicked. Tattoos featuring Oni masks embody the power to ward off evil and protect the wearer from harm.
- Tengu Mask: Depicted as humanoid crows or with a bright red face and long nose, Tengu masks symbolize protectors of nature. Known for their fierce loyalty, Tengu punish those who disrespect or harm the natural world. Tattoos of Tengu masks represent nature’s guardianship and the strength to fight against destruction.
- Samurai Mask (Mengu): Originally worn by warriors in battle, the samurai mask is a symbol of mystery, courage, and steadfastness. It embodies responsibility, loyalty, and the will to overcome challenges. People who wear samurai mask tattoos often conceal their emotions and prefer to act with discretion, displaying resilience in their pursuits.
- Hannya Mask: The Hannya mask represents a complex demon, once a beautiful woman consumed by jealousy. It is designed with two contrasting expressions—angry on one side and tearful on the other. Hannya masks in tattoos are symbolic of the power of unchecked emotions, serving as a reminder to maintain composure and wisdom. They act as a powerful charm against destructive passions and negative forces.
SEVERED HEAD
The severed head, or namakubi, is a poignant symbol in Japanese tattoo art, often depicted with a sword piercing it. This design is deeply symbolic, representing courage and the willingness to face one’s fate. It is a sign of respect toward a fallen enemy, acknowledging their strength or resolve in battle. The severed head serves as a powerful reminder of the inevitability of punishment for unjust actions, acting as a cautionary emblem for those who act dishonestly or recklessly. Through its depiction, the namakubi symbolizes the harsh realities of life and death, as well as the warrior’s acceptance of their destiny and the consequences of their actions.
The Meanings of Colors in Japanese Tattoo Culture
Traditional Japanese tattoos are renowned for their vivid colors, each carrying a specific, symbolic meaning drawn from ancient culture:
- White: Revered as a sacred color linked to the gods, symbolizing both spiritual and physical purity. In Buddhism, white also represents death, alongside the potential for new beginnings.
- Blue: Associated with the boundless seas, blue symbolizes happiness, tranquility, fidelity, stability, and female chastity. It also evokes a sense of mysticism and the unknown.
- Yellow: This color has dual meanings, representing prosperity and joy. However, in certain regions of Japan, it can also symbolize deceit.
- Black: Traditionally a masculine color, it symbolizes mystery and fierceness. Historically, black was associated with the samurai class.
- Purple: Once a color reserved for nobility due to its expensive dye, purple symbolizes strength, nobility, and high status.
- Red: A color strongly tied to celebration and joy in Japanese culture, red represents passion, happiness, vitality, and prosperity. Red has long been believed to ward off evil spirits, and in Kabuki theater, red streaks on actors’ faces signify justice.
- Green: Symbolizing eternity, respect for nature, fertility, youth, and energy, green evokes a deep connection to the earth.
Where is the Best Place to Get a Japanese Style Tattoo?
In Japan, the placement of a tattoo is considered to be of great significance, with certain areas being ideal for specific designs:
- Shoulder: Ideal for designs of animals or samurais, as it is a prominent and visible area.
- Forearm: A perfect spot for tattoos like a dragon or samurai mask, symbolizing strength and courage.
- Hand: The wrist is a great location for smaller, minimalist tattoos like a koi carp, tiger face, or dragon, signifying serious intent.
- Neck: Best suited for elegant designs like chrysanthemum, peony, or lotus tattoos.
- Chest: Traditionally adorned with tattoos of deep philosophical or romantic significance, as it is close to the heart.
- Back: Frequently used for large, expansive designs, often covering the shoulders to the small of the back to maximize their symbolic power.
- Leg: Suitable for tattoos that represent strength and vitality, helping to maintain physical health throughout life.
Japanese tattoos often require larger canvases, making full sleeves, chest, back, and abdominal tattoos common. The most expansive designs are often found on the back, depicting scenes from Japanese mythology or epics.
Japanese tattoos are also a popular choice for covering up scars, as their colorful and intricate nature can effectively conceal imperfections like stretch marks, burns, or scars.
How Do Japanese People Feel About Tattoos?
While there is no law against tattoos in Japan, they are often viewed negatively due to their historical association with the yakuza, Japan’s criminal underworld. The social stigma surrounding tattoos often leads to social exclusion or condemnation. In public spaces like onsens (hot springs), individuals with tattoos may be asked to cover them up or avoid entry altogether. Despite this, tattoo enthusiasts in Japan continue to embrace this art form, often concealing their tattoos when necessary.
Cultural Appropriation in Japanese Tattoos
The subject of cultural appropriation in relation to Japanese tattoos is a contentious issue. Some people believe that getting Japanese tattoos outside of the culture is disrespectful, as these symbols are deeply rooted in history and carry significant cultural meaning. Wearing a tattoo simply for its aesthetic value, without understanding its origins, can be seen as trivializing or disrespecting the culture.
How to Choose a Japanese Style Tattoo for Yourself?
When selecting a Japanese tattoo, it’s important to consider the following:
- Meaning: Ensure the design resonates with you and aligns with the message or symbolism you want to convey.
- Colors: The color palette is an essential aspect of Japanese tattoos. Take time to choose colors that enhance the meaning of the design.
- Additional Elements: Elements like patterns, flowers, and creatures can shift the meaning of the tattoo. Choose these details thoughtfully to reflect your personal intentions and the message you wish to communicate.
