Oriental Tattoos | Traditional Japanese Tattoos | Authentink (2024)

FAQs

What are the rules to traditional Japanese tattooing? ›

Oriental tattoos encompass a vast array of styles and motifs, drawing inspiration from the profound cultural heritage of East Asia. Within this expansive realm, both Japanese and Chinese tattoos stand out for their distinct aesthetics and symbolism.

Samurai tattoo signifies nobility, courage, bravery, honor, self-discipline, and respect. A Samurai tattoo demonstrates your warrior spirit and how you overcome challenges in your own life.

As with neo-traditional tattoos and American traditional tattoos, neo-Japanese is a modern elaboration on traditional Japanese tattooing. This mainly refers to the inclusion of more detail, a wider color palette and newer techniques and materials.

In short, you should. Japanese traditional tattoos are meant to mean more than just a cool design. Being conscious of this and understanding the symbolism of your tattoo goes a long way. Ask your artist if you have any questions regarding the style!

In Japan, body art is considered taboo because of its ties to the yakuza, aka the Japanese mob. While this is starting to change, some Japanese onsen, or hot springs, won't allow people with tattoos to enter. It's a way to bar yakuza without directly discriminating against them.

In tattooing a general rule is that all designs should face the center of the body (heart). For example, front thigh tattoos should face inwards towards each other. And top outer arms will face forward in the same direction the body faces.

Most are traditionally a symbol of femininity, but in Japan, flower tattoo design and symbolism tends to trend more towards the masculine, such as a lotus flower embodying the attributes of enlightenment and perseverance. Japanese flower motifs typically recognize the cycle of birth and death, as well as rebirth, since ...

Geometric and ornamental tattoos are styles of tattoo that are rooted in mystery, religious symbolism, and ancient patterns. These styles focus heavily on lines and patterns to create mesmerizing tattoos that can have a hypnotic quality on viewers as they examine the patterns your tattoo creates.

The Yakuza snake tattoo is often tattooed on a large part of the back or chest. The symbolism is bad luck but also power and wisdom. The snake tattoo is often associated with the Yakuza. The snake is often associated with a Hannya tattoo.

Should I get a Yakuza tattoo? ›

Each Yakuza tattoo is perceived within the clan as a very personal and codified element and therefore has no interest in being seen by everyone (when they are dressed). But today, Yakuza tattoos are quite frowned upon by the Japanese people because they are associated with the criminal activities of the organization.

Geishas are known for their skill in various arts like music, dance, and conversation, making these tattoos also symbolize artistic expression and elegance. Additionally, they can signify respect for Japanese heritage and an appreciation for the complex history and nuances of geisha as cultural icons.

In traditional tattoo art, the dragon is not a symbol of fire or power, but rather of generosity and wisdom. All these connotations have made the dragon the most widespread, most popular symbol in the irezumi.

They age beautifully - because of their level of detail and use of traditional colors, Irezumi tattoos tend to age very well. As your skin changes over time, these tattoos will continue to look amazing. 6. They can be large or small - Traditional Japanese tattoos can be as big or as small as you want them to be.

Most people say tebori hurts much less than a tattoo machine and is far less intense of a feeling despite looking more painful. The quiet nature of this style along with less skin trauma creates a relaxing tattoo experience and a great tattoo. What are the benefits of a tebori tattoo?

Tattoos are not illegal in Japan, but there aren't allowed everywhere. Walking on the street with a visible tattoo in Japan won't cause any problems. At temples and shrines, there usually aren't any tattoo bans either. However, these more “traditional” places often appreciate it if you cover up.

The first actual record of Japanese tattooing used as a punishment was mentioned in history in 720AD. But by the 17th century it was very accepted in society that tattoo marks were used to identify criminals and outcasts in Japan. Often the latter were tattooed on the arms, e.g. with a cross or a straight line.

Yakuza tattoos, although they cover most of the body, always stop at the wrist, ankle, and neck. Additionally, there is usually a strip on non-tattooed area going down the middle of the chest. The tattoos were designed this way so that they could be easily concealed under a kimono.

Some of the most popular images found in a Japanese tattoo design include samurais, tigers, dragons, geishas, Koi fish and many others. Japanese tattoos are often presented with bold color mixed with black and grey shades. There are also some black and grey Japanese tattoos without color that are absolutely amazing.