Japanese mask Tattoos are powerful symbols with deep cultural meaning, symbolizing strength, protection, and duality – three essential attributes in human nature. A Japanese mask tattoo can evoke those emotions in its viewer.
Oni
Oni are legendary creatures from folklore often depicted as horned ogres. These mythical beings symbolize humankind’s darker traits, such as anger and jealousy. With their fierce countenance, bulging eyes, and razor-sharp fangs exuding an intimidating air, Oni can often be found protecting humans against themselves or intimidating their peers. Oni mask Tattoos are an increasingly popular way of showing appreciation for Japanese culture.
Hannya
The Hannya mask symbolizes feminine anguish and rage. Gendered female has historically been employed in Noh and Kyogen Japanese traditional theatre plays and Shinto Kagura ritual dances to portray an angrily bloodthirsty demon that changes its expression depending on your angle of viewing it or an obsessive or resentful woman. Hannya mask Tattoos often depict women who have been betrayed in love and filled with anger and jealousy, so this motif is popular in Japanese tattoo designs to represent this culture.
Tatami-maki
The Hannya mask is another favorite among Japanese-style tattoos. It represents guts and knowledge while offering women an alternative lion design to add to their chest or as part of a manly lion piece.
Tatami
Tatami are rigid board-like mats used for traditional Japanese room flooring. Many modern Japanese homes still feature tatami rooms and furnishings. Tatami mats are essential in practicing the Ikebana flower arrangement and tea ceremony. When entering any tatami room, you will be asked to remove your shoes before entering.
Samurai
Hannya mask Tattoos are traditional Japanese designs with multiple meanings and uses. They may protect from evil spirits, bring good luck, or as a reminder to overcome negative feelings such as anger or jealousy. A Hannya mask may also symbolize passionate lovers with all-or-nothing relationships who cling to each relationship they enter into fiercely. Samurai warriors would wear masks resembling demons to protect their faces from harm and strike fear in their enemies. The Oni mask is a classic Japanese tattoo design, representing both aspects of humanity, good and bad.
