Japanese Tattoos

Japanese Tattoos

Japanese tattoos are deep routed in an exquisite culture, of geishas, samurais, renounced architecture, mysterious creatures, tea ceremonies and lucky charms. Japanese tattoos are best inked on large surfaces; either the whole arm, whole back, or another large expanse of skin is needed to really bring Japanese tattoos to life. Japanese tattoos done on a small scale may lose some of their intricacies and splendor.

Japanese Tattoos – Geishas

The ethereal, almost magic realm of geisha is a very popular choice for Japanese tattoos. The tradition of geisha is exclusively a Japanese concept and there is no western equivalent to the geisha. Geisha has long been a symbol of exquisite attractiveness who were only available to the beauty obsessed elite of ancient Japan. They role was to entertain men, through music, dance, singing, and other art forms. They were the fashion trend setters of their time, fashioning the most expensive and elaborate kimonos and they were renowned for their immaculate make up. Japanese tattoos of geisha take you back to a world of unmatched beauty, etiquette, sensuality and intellect all rolled into one.

Japanese Tattoos - Samurai Warriors

Samurai warriors were a class apart from the counterparts. They name lives on today in many ceremonies across japans and are remembering for their technical prowess, strength, codes of honor and unmatched bravery. A samurai warrior would not stand higher than 5.5 feet but could give their western counterparts which stood near 6 feet a run for their money. Japanese tattoos of samurai warriors take you back to a forgotten time where honor, discipline and protection where the cardinal rules. A samurai would not let anything get in the way of their duty of upholding these principles and would even resort to self sacrifice if they failed to respect them.

Japanese Tattoos - Koi Fish

Japanese Tattoos

Koi fish are one of the most respected of animals in the Japanese culture. Koi fish are a very energetic fish breed and are known for their ability to swim upstream and even up waterfalls! Their innate ability to take on challenges, mark them as symbols for success and achievement. The courage and willingness they display by swimming independently in troubled waters merits them as being good luck symbols. Real life koi or even pictures or statues of them are encouraged to be present within Japanese homes. Japanese tattoos of koi fish are symbolic of courage, an independent spirit, success, prosperity and achievement in your career or your business. Different colored koi fish represent different ideals so be vary of the color of your koi fish tattoo.

Japanese Tattoos - Dragons

In Japanese culture dragons are the most potent symbol for luck and prosperity. Dragons sit on top of the hierarchy of revered creatures in Japan, second to none. They represent the ultimate masculine energy, and are known to be benevolent creatures that are the emblems of the royal family. The dragon stands guard for one of the worlds directions and represents new beginnings. Prosperity, everlasting success and unimagined recognition and wisdom are listed among the dragons arsenal of qualities and a Japanese tattoo of the dragon will stand for that arsenal of qualities.

Japanese Tattoos - The Phoenix

The phoenix, another prominent subject in Japanese tattoos are the female counterparts to the dragon, while the dragon represents the masculine’s yang energy, the phoenix represents the feminine yin. And together they create a picture of the perfect balance between two opposing forces. The phoenix is the epitome of high virtue, grace, fidelity, self sacrifice and rebirth.