Japanese culture assigns significant meanings to various elements of nature. For instance, peaches symbolize good health, longevity, respect for nature, and an intimate connection to Earth.
Just as dragons are potent symbols in the West, the Koi fish in Japan carry great significance. They are symbols of perseverance, strength, success, and wealth.
Koi
Koi fish tattoos are iconic within the Japanese tattooing tradition. They symbolize courage, strength, and good luck for the bearers. The Koi also represents perseverance in facing obstacles, conveying resilience and determination.
The mythical bird, Phoenix (or house in Japanese), is another famous symbol in Japanese tattoos. The Phoenix embodies fire, courage, and independence, and is associated with sun-worshipping and faithfulness.
In Japan, as in many other cultures, tigers are revered symbols. They signify courage, strength, and good luck, and are believed to ward off evil spirits and promote community harmony.
Cherry Blossoms
Among the most loved Japanese tattoo designs, are Sakura, or cherry blossom tattoos. These tattoos depict beauty, love, and fidelity. They also symbolize the transience of life – a reminder of life’s fleeting nature.
You can combine cherry blossoms with a hummingbird or butterfly for a feminine, eye-catching tattoo. For an added personal touch, you can incorporate the initials or names of loved ones onto branches or trees within the tattoo design.
The Great Wave of Kanagawa
Japanese tattoos are beautiful expressions of cultural pride. But it is vital to understand their meaning and cultural context before getting one. Misunderstanding their symbolism can be seen as disrespectful.
A dragon typically symbolizes strength, courage, wealth, and wisdom. This design is often seen on the back or leg. Different colors carry additional meanings – green for nature, and purple for royalty.
Hokusai’s iconic work, The Great Wave of Kanagawa, is a stunning example of ukiyo-e art. This print, which depicts a stormy sea with ships and mountains, is part of his celebrated series – Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji.
Lone Tiger
Similar to the dragon, a tiger also symbolizes strength and masculine energy. Besides, it represents courage and bravery; in Japanese culture, it stands for the North and autumn.
Snakes, or hebi, carry varied meanings in Japan – health, wealth, change, and wisdom. Most commonly, they are believed to offer protection from illness and misfortune.
Phoenix, the mythological bird, is also strongly present in Japanese culture. It symbolizes rebirth and renewal.
Inspired by Bodhidharma, the founder of Zen Buddhism, the Daruma doll, is an iconic symbol of good luck in Japan. As a popular tattoo choice, these rounded figures represent perseverance and good fortune.
