Japanese Tattoos: Style, Origin, Tips

Tattoos in Japan have a complex history and a cultural perception that has significantly evolved over time. The practice of tattooing, known in Japan as irezumi, has ancient roots but has gone through various phases of acceptance and stigmatization. Let’s see how the perception of the tattoo world has changed across different eras:

Edo Period (1603-1868): Tattoos in Japan were initially used for spiritual and decorative purposes. However, during the Edo Period, tattoos took on a punitive connotation, used to mark criminals. This mark served as a form of social stigmatization, making tattoos synonymous with criminality.

Meiji Period (1868-1912): With Japan’s opening to the West during the Meiji Period, there was a movement towards modernization and Westernization, which included the rejection of certain Japanese traditions, such as tattooing. It was during this period that tattoos were officially banned, pushing irezumi into the subculture.

20th and 21st Century: Although the ban was lifted, tattoos remained associated with the yakuza, the Japanese criminal organization, which contributed to their negative image. However, in the late 20th and early 21st century, with global cultural influence, tattoos began to be seen in a different light, gaining popularity and acceptance, especially among the young and in the context of international fashion and body art.

The strong association of tattoos with the yakuza has maintained a certain stigma against irezumi. Many onsen (Japanese hot springs), gyms, pools, and other public places may deny access to tattooed individuals due to this association.

Nevertheless, new generations in Japan are slowly changing the perception of tattoos, seeing them more as a form of individual expression and body art rather than a sign of criminal affiliation.

The influence of pop culture and global trends has led to greater acceptance of tattoos among young Japanese people. The tattoo culture in Japan today is a dynamic field that reflects changing social norms and the interaction between tradition and globalization. While the perception of tattoos continues to evolve, their rich history and deep symbolism remain a fundamental aspect of body art in Japan.

Japanese tattoos are rich in symbols, and each image has a specific meaning. Here are some of the most common symbols and their meanings:

The Japanese dragon, or ryū, is one of the most powerful and significant symbols in Japanese tattoos. Unlike Western dragons, which are often seen as evil creatures, Japanese dragons are considered benevolent, wise, and strong. They represent strength, wisdom, protection, and good fortune. As aquatic creatures, they are often depicted with large claws and scales, surrounded by clouds or waves, and frequently associated with the sea and watercourses, symbolizing abundance and prosperity.

The koi fish is a very popular symbol in Japanese tattoos, representing perseverance, determination, strength, and courage. Legend has it that the koi swims upstream until it reaches the Dragon’s waterfall, where it transforms into a dragon. This symbol is thus a powerful message of overcoming adversity and achieving goals through perseverance and determination.

In Japanese culture, the tiger is a powerful and significant symbol, representing courage, strength, and protection against evil, illness, and natural disasters. Unlike some Western cultures where the tiger may be seen as a threat, in Japanese culture, it is often considered a guardian and protector.

The tiger is also associated with autumn and wind in the symbolism of Japan’s five elements. It is often depicted in combination with the dragon, symbolizing the perfect balance of opposing forces; the dragon represents the masculine, the spiritual, and water, while the tiger represents the feminine, the earthly, and the wind. A tiger tattoo can serve as a reminder to stay strong in the face of adversity and to protect what is dear to the individual.

Cherry blossoms, or sakura, are deeply symbolic in Japanese culture and represent the ephemeral beauty of life, a reminder of the transient nature of existence. In tattoos, sakura can symbolize beauty, life, death, and renewal. Their delicate appearance and brief blooming period are a reminder of the fragility and preciousness of life.

Samurai in tattoos represent honor, loyalty, courage, strength, and discipline. These Japanese warriors followed a strict code known as bushidō, which emphasizes honor, courage, and virtue. A samurai tattoo can symbolize respect for these qualities or identification with these ideals.

Oni in Japanese tattoos are often depicted as demons or trolls and symbolize evil, dangers, or fears to be overcome. However, they can also have positive meanings. In some contexts, oni can represent protectors against evil or malevolent spirits. As such, oni tattoos can symbolize the fight against evil, protection, or overcoming personal obstacles.

The lion, or shishi, in the context of Japanese tattoos, represents the protector and guardian. This symbol is often associated with strength, courage, and protection against evil spirits. In Japanese tradition, the shishi is seen as a defender that keeps evil at bay and protects against negative influences. In tattoos, it is often depicted alongside the peony, symbolizing not only protection but also prosperity and good fortune.

The lotus flower holds deep meaning in Japanese culture, representing purity, enlightenment, and spiritual awakening. It grows in the mud and blossoms above the surface of the water, a path that symbolizes rising from darkness and adversity to beauty and clarity. In tattoos, the lotus can symbolize personal struggle, overcoming difficulties, and achieving a higher state of awareness.

The snake, or hebi, is another recurring symbol in Japanese tattoos, representing protection, wisdom, and good fortune. The snake is also seen as a guardian or protector, able to ward off evil and disease. In some contexts, the hebi also symbolizes renewal and rebirth, as it sheds its skin and renews itself. In a tattoo, it can represent overcoming personal transformation or passing through a difficult life phase.

The geisha in Japanese tattoos symbolizes beauty, mystery, art, and female perfection. Geishas are known for their skill in traditional Japanese arts, such as music, dance, and conversation. In a tattoo, a geisha can represent admiration for Japanese culture, elegance, grace, and dedication to art. However, it’s important to approach this symbol with respect for its deep cultural roots and meaning.

Each symbol has deep roots in Japanese culture and carries rich and varied meanings that can be personalized to reflect the journey or life experiences of the individual who chooses to wear them as body art.

In Japan, the traditional tattoo technique is known as tebori, which means “hand carving.” This centuries-old technique differs significantly from modern tattoo methods that use electric machines.

• Tools: Tebori is done with specific manual tools, such as bamboo or metal sticks, to which needles are attached. The artist uses these rods to insert ink into the skin manually.
• Methodology: The artist inserts the ink into the skin through a rhythmic and fluid motion, allowing for very detailed control over the depth and angle of the needles. This technique requires exceptional skill and precision and can be slower than modern methods.
• Pain and Healing: Many believe that tattoos made with the tebori technique are less painful than those done with machines, although this can vary from person to person. Additionally, healing is often faster.
• Result: Tattoos done with tebori have a distinctive appearance, with shades and gradations of color that can be difficult to achieve with electric machines. This technique also allows for greater integration of the design with the natural shapes of the body.

While tebori remains a respected and traditional method, many tattoo artists in Japan have adopted modern techniques with electric machines for their efficiency and versatility.

The art of tebori is admired worldwide for its uniqueness and the deep mastery required, and many tattoo enthusiasts travel to Japan to experience this authentic technique. Tebori thus represents not only a tattooing technique but also a living connection with Japanese history and culture, keeping alive an aspect of traditional art in an increasingly modernized world.

If you are considering getting a Japanese tattoo, here are some tips to guide your choice:

• Understand the Symbolism: Japanese tattoos are rich in symbolism, so it’s important to understand the meaning of the design you choose. Research the symbols and their significance to ensure that they resonate with your personal journey.
• Choose an Experienced Artist: Japanese tattoos require a high level of skill due to their complexity and details. Make sure to choose an artist who is experienced in this style and can deliver a high-quality result.
• Consider Tebori: If you want an authentic experience, consider finding an artist who practices the traditional tebori technique. This can add a unique and meaningful element to your tattoo.
• Respect the Culture: Japanese tattoos have deep cultural roots, so approach them with respect. Avoid trivializing or misappropriating symbols without understanding their cultural significance.

In conclusion, Japanese tattoos offer a beautiful combination of art, history, and meaning. By choosing with care and respect, your irezumi will not only be a work of art but also a tribute to a rich cultural tradition.

Come visit us at TattooLab, you can get the Japanese tattoo of your dreams!