THE PSYCHOLOGY BEHIND JAPANESE TATTOOS

THE PSYCHOLOGY BEHIND JAPANESE TATTOOS

It is a known fact that Japanese history and culture has a vast use of symbolism. Even in the modern day they have not let go of their cultural identity and traditions but have modified them in some way or another. In terms of tattoo art Japan has gone through loads of ups and downs trying to find its position regarding tattooing but now it is a known fact that Japanese style tattoo art is loved all around the world. The hesitation in about the tattoos in Japanese culture may have been due to their dark history, as once tattoos were a symbol of punishment and the convicted criminals were tattooed with degradative remarks on their skin. Despite of this reason Japanese tattoos have evolved to be a symbol of pride and nationalism. Rising from the Yakuza period Japanese tattoos have become representative of their rich culture. Whether you like to get a cherry blossom tattoo or a fierce dragon, their deep meanings will for sure be interested in knowing the deep meanings behind them. tattoos-for-men.com brings you gripping information regarding the psychology behind Japanese tattoos, so without further ado lets get into it.

 

• Cherry Blossom: Sakura or more commonly known as cherry blossom is native to Japan, and is deemed as the unofficial national flower due to its wide popularity. This flower has been celebrated for many centuries and holds a notable position in Japanese culture. The cherry blossom holds its magnificence as it survives in harsh weather despite its fragile and delicate nature. The cherry blossom tattoo is a metaphor for transience of life.The beauty of this flower sends you in an amusing trance of peace and tranquility.

 

• Dragons: Japanese culture embraces a lot of mythical creatures of which the most popular one is the Ryu or Japanese dragon tattoo. This tattoo symbolizes blessing, wisdom, strength, and force for good. The western culture associates dragons with ferocity and wealth but in the east it is seen differently. In Japanese culture they are believed to use their strength for the well-being of humankind. The dragon usually comprises of other animals such as its head is usually that of a camel, scales of a fish, the talons of a hawk or eagle and the horns of a buck.

 

• Koi Tattoo Aka Japanese Fish Tattoo: The Koi fish is native to Japan and is an integral part of Japanese artistic culture for long. This tattoo holds some deep meanings which are, strength, determination, courage, and the desire to succeed. This brightly colored fish also has some religious significance along with its great impact in Japanese tradition. These tattoos are thought to represent the wearers struggle in life. The Japanese people believe that the fish goes up-stream to the gates of heaven where it turns into a dragon. Koi fish tattoo represents individualism, ambition, power, and luck. They are also associated with long longevity, persistence, and overcoming challenges in life.

 

• Phoenix Tattoo: Phoenix is a mythical creature that is believed to have been risen from its ashes. Its not only kindred to Japanese culture but has a shared background with other cultures. It is a symbol of rebirth, triumph, and renewal of one’s self. Hou-ou or phoenix, this fiery creature features both harmony and discord. It is believed to be the mark of a new age be it better or worse.

 

• Oni Mask or Demon Tattoo: These tattoos are also very popular not only in Japanese culture but also all around the world. Oni are the demons in the Japanese art but they are not all evil. The meaning behind Oni mask tattoo is protector, good and evil, and trickster. They are known for being devilish but some of these imaginary creatures are believed to punish the unjust and thus be the protectors of good. The creature has typically humanoid features what makes it different is horns, claws, fangs, and chromatic skin usually red.

 

Japanese style art of tattoo has evolved with time but has yet maintained its core elements which makes it more intriguing in this fast moving world where things change in the blink of an eye. Now, as this art is becoming popular among people of other ethnicities, its elements mixed with other cultures are creating diversity and a newer dynamic. For more information on tattoo art please visit our website tattoo-for-men.com .