People outside Japan might associate Japanese tattoos with violent criminals, but this impression could be slightly misleading. Tattooed people living in Japan face many difficulties, such as being denied entry to public baths and onsen and having their wages docked by their employers if they have tattoos.
Flower Lotus
Lotus flowers have long been associated with purity, beauty, and enlightenment. They represent life’s journey from darkness into lightness and beauty. A lotus blossom typically emerges from murky water before blooming above its surface gracefully as a beautiful symbol. This blackwork lotus tattoo features thin lines and shading to give a lifelike appearance. Add meaning to a flower lotus tattoo by including a quote or phrase that is personally significant. This would work well on the forearm, tricep, or sternum areas.
Wave Tattoo
Wave tattoos are the perfect symbol to represent one’s love for the ocean and all it offers. Waves symbolize power, fluidity, and movement – from gentle breezes to turbulent currents. A crashing wave tattoo could symbolize the challenges overcome in life, while its crest represents feelings of accomplishment. Surfing enthusiasts particularly enjoy tattoos featuring wave crests.
Sun Tattoo
Sun tattoos are an expressive way to show your connection with the world. These circular designs with radiating rays symbolize energy, passion, and hope. You can place them anywhere on your body. The sun has long been revered as an archetypal figure across cultures. Its symbolism of strength stands the test of time, as it supports life on Earth and shapes our place within the solar system. Combining sun designs with yin and yang symbols represents equilibrium and is popular among people of Japanese ancestry.
Dragon Tattoo
A dragon tattoo can represent strength and serve as a reminder to use wisdom and caution when facing dangerous situations. tattoos can be an expressive way to display your culture and heritage or add flair and character. Dragon tattoos can be integrated into other designs, such as flowers and Kanji characters. Experimenting with different colors can make your dragon tattoo stand out and convey additional symbolism.
Koi Fish Tattoo
The Koi fish is an iconic symbol of perseverance and strength. It is an alternative representation to dragon tattoos, carrying an ancient legend about how persistence led a carp to transform into a dragon. Black shading and an elegant outline make a Koi fish tattoo visually appealing, while lotus flowers and water splashes can add further significance. Tattooing an image of a Koi fish swimming upstream symbolizes the willingness to face and conquer challenges head-on. Combining elements from Japanese culture, such as the devil or peony flowers, enhances the tattoo’s meaning.
Oni Mask
The red one-mask half-sleeve tattoo is an excellent option for those who love flash art tattoos and desire an eye-catching design. One is a Japanese folklore figure known for playing tricks on humans and taking delight in humiliating them. They typically feature fierce expressions and intimidating features such as massive horns. Alternatively, a green oni mask tattoo can represent duality, wisdom, and strength, appealing to those less inclined towards superstitions.
