A Japanese tattoo is a unique design that combines a full background with a single piece of artwork on the backside, buttocks, and neck. The backpiece is the main focus of the design, with the other tattoos supporting the story told by the backpiece. The traditional background of Japanese tattoo designs includes water, waves, wind bars, and spiral clouds.
Irezumi
Irezumi tattoos are an extremely personal and intricate art form, and many of the designs have meanings specific to the person who got them. Most of these tattoos are done by specialized tattooists, and the entire process is extremely painful and expensive. The tattoo artist will draw a design by hand on the client’s skin using sumi ink or a felt tip pen. After this, the actual tattooing process begins. A typical irezumi tattoo can take up to a year to complete, as the client may return weekly to have more work done.
The Irezumi tattoo emerged during the Edo period, when social hierarchies were still prevalent. At the time, tattoos were used as a form of punishment for criminals, courtesans, and prisoners. However, as time passed, they began to look more artistic and stylish. Until the late 19th century, Japanese authorities outlawed tattoos, citing the association between body modification and criminality.
Ukiyo-e
Ukiyo-e tattoo is a very popular type of Japanese tattoo. This style of art arose during the Edo period (1603-1868), a period of widespread prosperity in Japan. This thriving economy enabled the middle class to create new forms of art. The result was a wide variety of works, including ukiyo-e prints, kabuki, melodramatic stage productions, and even the first tattoo.
Tattooing in Japan was introduced to the popular culture in the Edo period, when it became an expression of individuality and freedom. The popular culture in Edo at this time had been suppressed by the Tokugawa government, but tattooing was a way to show individuality and freedom of expression. The tattoos often represented religious meaning and were very elaborate. As a result, Japanese tattoos are among the most difficult and elaborate designs in the world.
Kuniyoshi
The popularity of the Kuniyoshi tattoo in Japan dates back to the nineteenth century. The artist, Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1797-1861), is considered to have been responsible for the development of the art. His famous prints portray heroic outlaws in Chinese martial arts novels. The popularity of these prints probably inspired the trend of real tattoos.
The Kuniyoshi tattoo has a fascinating history. The Japanese artist studied under Katsushita Hokusai, the celebrated artist known for his famous tidal wave print. The renowned painter was an expert in Chinese painting.
Horiyoshi
If you’re planning a tattoo in Japan, you should consider visiting the Horiyoshi tattoo studio. This shop specializes in Japanese traditional full body tattoos, also known as irezumi and horimono. Horiyoshi III is particularly well-known for his work on full body tattoos.
Tattoos in Japan have a long history of being associated with the criminal underworld. Despite the stigma associated with it, however, this trend is slowly transforming. Tattooing in Japan has become more popular and acceptable among younger generations.
Okina Mask
In Japan, the Okina Mask is a very popular tattoo design. This character is a revered figure who represents beauty and femininity. This tattoo design can be a subtle tribute to the Shinto religion, or can be a humorous expression. The Okina Mask has many interesting legends associated with it, which can make it an excellent choice for a tattoo.
This mythological creature has a hole in its head and is often represented with a heart or an egg. This design symbolizes femininity and represents the positive aspects of life. It can also depict an old man with a smiling face. This tattoo design is a common choice among the younger generations of tattoo enthusiasts. The Okina Mask can also represent wisdom and faithfulness.
Sakura
A Sakura tattoo is a symbol of youth and innocence. It is also associated with love and lost love. It is the national flower of Japan and is used in national ceremonies. Its delicate and sweet petals have mystical meanings. Getting one on your body is a great way to show strength and beauty.
You can have a Sakura tattoo or just a cherry blossom design. Cherry blossoms have deep meanings in Japan, and a tattoo with these flowers is a beautiful tattoo idea. You can even combine them with Japanese kanji. For example, a blossoming cherry twig is a good choice for the kanji “happiness.” A koi fish and cherry blossom tattoo design can symbolize strength, courage, or good luck.
Yakuza
A yakuza tattoo in Japan is considered a sign of a man’s criminal activity. These tattoos are usually large and on the back. The symbolism of the tattoo is varied, but typically includes bad luck, poor health, and wisdom. The design of the tattoo is often symbolic and depicts a yakuza member.
The Yakuza are a group of Japanese mafia. Their activities include extortion, drug trafficking, prostitution rings, and other crimes. They are also known for running a number of businesses in Japan. While many Japanese people view them as criminals, they’ve also become popular as a symbol of protection and justice.