Japanese Tattoo Meanings: a Look from the Inside.
Nowadays tattooing has become one of the forms of body art. It is popularized by pop stars, actors, boxers. What would any 50 Cent movie have to do with the gangsters’ world if Curtis Jackson III had no tattoos all over his body? Tattoos make us look cool and sexy, extraordinary and desired. But what do they mean?
To completely understand different Japanese tattoo meanings you need:
- to be a Japanese
- to be a tattoo master
- to be a historian, specializing in this field
Still it is possible to get acquainted with the basics. So, here we go.
Japanese tattoos are usually multicolored. Colors fulfil Japanese tattoo meanings and represent different ties of blood, parents’ old age and wisdom (black color), life and the Earth (green color), kindness, wisdom and ability to face any difficulties (gold color), the East (yellow color), the West, forgiveness and compassion (blue color).
Traditional symbols. Japanese tattoo meanings.
Japanese tattoo meanings differ from symbol to symbol. Thus, if you want a cute koi fish tattoo to decorate your back, first learn more about it.
Dragons
Dragons are traditionally associated with Japan. Besides, they symbolize a great number of personal characteristics, absolute power and strength. Choose the color carefully as it alters the meaning greatly.
Koi fish
This symbol stands for ambition, luck, inner power, determination and bravery. In a more global sense it symbolizes the unique Japanese philosophy.
Cherry (sakura) blossoms
This tiny pink flower is an eternal symbol of life power and desire to live.
Hannya masks
These originating from Japan’s Kabuki stage performance masks look rather evil. Their main meaning is that of jealousy and hatred. Nevertheless, the Japanese have a strong belief that they are protected from evil spirits and lure good fortune and luck.
Samurai warriors (Homemade tattoo gun)
These warriors lived by strict Bushido code. The main idea of this set of rules is that you should be strong-willed and ready to sacrifice your life for the supreme goal. It symbolizes the best features of the Japanese culture and spiritual world.
Having chosen a Japanese tattoo for yourself you should look for a real professional. Japanese symbols can’t be qualitatively tattooed at home with a homemade tattoo gun. They are very intricate and require a perfect mastery of the Japanese hand tattooing method known as “tebori”. So, if you want it to be done well, don’t experiment with it.