Yakuza tattoos symbolize their culture’s values and beliefs, using traditional Japanese symbols to show their commitment and bravery. Furthermore, they believe in an honor code called Bushido.
Koi Fish
Tattoos representing the Yakuza lifestyle often incorporate traditional Japanese motifs such as dragons, koi fish, geishas, and samurais to symbolize honor and tradition within their group. Such symbols also represent virtues associated with being part of this lifestyle, such as perseverance and determination.
A famous symbol of the yakuza is the koi fish. This iconic aquatic symbol represents perseverance and the ability to overcome challenges while representing luck and fortune. Furthermore, its ability to swim upstream against its current mirrors the resilient resolve and unflappable determination displayed by members of this organization.
Tiger
Tattoos have long been seen as badges of honor within Yakuza culture and serve as marks of recognition of successful missions or acts of bravery, as well as protection from enemies and demons. A popular choice is inking with a tiger, representing strength, courage, loyalty, and good luck.
Tattoos adorned with the symbolism of tigers represent the fearlessness and power of Yakuza gang members operating outside the law, who need to assert dominance and authority over rivals while showing resilience when facing challenges.
Chrysanthemum
The chrysanthemum flower, associated with Japan’s Emperor and thus symbolizing nobility, is often inked onto Yakuza members’ bodies to show their ties to traditional Japanese culture while conveying ambitions for power and prestige.
Peony Flowers and Lotus
Peony flowers often make excellent choices as yakuza tattoos; their elegant beauty stands for wealth while at the same time representing masculinity and strength.
Shirai wears a yellow flower on her nipple that could be either a peony or a lotus; peonies symbolize elegance and prosperity, while lotuses symbolize Buddhist teachings as something striving toward its full potential.
Skulls and Bodhisattvas
Tattoos that symbolize death and rebirth, such as skulls, are common symbols among yakuza tattoos, protecting wearers from danger while reminding them that their actions will have long-term repercussions. Bodhisattvas from Buddhism symbolizes compassion and enlightenment – another common combination of these tattoos.
Octopus
The octopus, an intelligent sea creature renowned for its camouflage abilities and intelligence, symbolizes strength and courage in yakuza culture. Additionally, its symbolism represents good fortune, something the criminal organization values highly. Finally, adaptability is another trait valued highly among its members that is highly appreciated within yakuza groups.
Lions, Wolves, and Maple Leaf
Tattoos often used by yakuza are of the tiger, symbolizing power and fierceness. Tigers are highly revered in Japanese and Chinese cultures; bravery and strength are significantly valued among yakuza members. Lions and wolves may also be used to represent loyalty and perseverance. Other popular yakuza Tattoos include the phoenix, which means rebirth and fire, and maple leaf tattoos, which represent time and life cycles.
