The Yakuza is an organized criminal network . Gang members often mark themselves with intricate tattoos called irezumi to demonstrate their courage and loyalty, providing another means for gang members to identify themselves and represent their group.
tattoos in Japanese Culture
tattoos, known as irezumi, are integral to Japanese culture and identity. They symbolize power and commitment to their gangs. There are much-hidden meanings and symbolism to these designs that can be difficult for non-Japanese people to comprehend; visiting an experienced Japanese tattoo artist who practices traditional methods of creating irezumi tattoos is an optimal experience. Tattooing one of these tattoos is no simple process! From start to finish, getting one done usually takes hours of painstaking effort and work. In contrast to more modern styles, these traditional styles use metal needles that push ink under the skin before being permanently inscribed into it, resulting in deeply-etched ink marks!
Symbols of Yakuza Identity
Tattooed dragons are a common sign of yakuza identity, symbolizing strength, protection, and good luck. Additionally, these mythological beasts signify a balance between opposing forces in life. A dragon tattoo also stands for strength, safety, and good luck and often means someone’s ability to overcome any challenges they encounter along their path in life. Koi fish have long been recognized as symbols of yakuza brotherhood. According to Japanese legend, these fish can adapt to changing water conditions, even swimming upstream against waterfalls! Koi represent a strong brotherhood within yakuza organizations.
Significance and Challenges
tattoos with special meaning for members of Japan’s Yakuza crime syndicates are prevalent and significant to them. Their significance to Japanese society makes this symbol especially guarded. Tattoos created for the Yakuza can be highly intricate. To get them done correctly, it is wise to contact an official Hiroshi (an artist who only provides this style of irezumi tattooing for them). Horishis are considered masters in body art, and finding one isn’t easy. Tradition dictated using metal needles and bamboo for inking ink onto skin using traditional methods, creating painful tattoos known as Irezumi tattoos for Yakuza members. Unfortunately, finding such an experienced professional who performs Irezumi tattoos for them can be challenging. Essential to keep in mind is the fact that Japan banned irezumi during the mid-19th century to make Japan a more civilized nation and prevent any potential foreign exploitation of native peoples.
Yakuza and Tattoo Artistry
It is common for members of this organization to recommend tattoo artists they know to other members. This relationship can become especially crucial given how tattoos are integral to identity and culture.
Charitable Activities
Tattooed Yakuza are widely known for their charitable activities, such as sending relief trucks during Tohoku’s tsunami and earthquake disaster in 2013. Some of their more notable acts of humanitarianism have included sending volunteers to Fukushima following its nuclear accident in 2013 and giving to a homeless shelter.
