Japanese Tattoo Ideas-Traditional and Modern Art

Japanese Tattoo Ideas, or Irezumi, consist of three traditional styles: stylistic, realistic, and abstract tattoo designs. These tattoos, which are usually done big enough, like on the back, on the chest, or as full arm sleeves, can contain intricate and colorful designs. Other popular designs include koi fish for perseverance and strength, dragons representing wisdom and protection, and cherry blossoms embodying life’s transience.

Samurai warriors, Hannya masks, and mythological creatures such as a phoenix are also typical and deep in historical meaning. Often,  in its background are waves, clouds, and winds, with a dynamic and fluid composition. Classical Japanese Tattoo Ideas are known for their use of color, scale, and intricate design, while today the style has evolved to include the skin in rich black-and-grey tones when a less striking appearance is desired. Positioning is also everything in Japanese tattoos, as it is meant to harmonize with the natural curves of the body.

Japanese Tattoo Ideas

1. Koi fish are swimming upstream

2. A majestic dragon wrapped around the arm

3. Cherry blossom petals blowing in the wind

4. A fierce tiger is crawling across the chest

5. Samurai warrior in full armor

6. Hannya mask symbolizes transformation

7. Phoenix rising from the ashes

8. Oni demon with intense eyes

9. Geisha holding a fan

10. Waves crashing with a floating lotus

11. Tengu bird-like spirit

12. Foo dog (guardian lion) roaring

13. Carp transforming into a dragon

14. Mount Fuji with clouds and cranes

15. Snake coiled around a sword

16. Bamboo forests with mist

17. Kitsune (fox spirit) with nine tails

18. Peony flowers are in full bloom

19. Japanese maple leaves swirling

20. Crane bird in flight

21. Shishi (mythical lion-dog) statue

22. Sword and cherry blossom crossing

23. Oni mask with flames

24. Daruma doll symbolizes perseverance

25. Komainu temple guardians

26. Tattoo of a katana with falling petals

27. Yukata-clad woman in a traditional scene

28. Full-back dragon and tiger battle

29. Rising sun with samurai silhouette

30. Fox and peonies blend

31. Lotus flower with waterfall background

32. Traditional Japanese wind god (Fujin)

33. Thunder god Raijin drumming

34. Red-crowned crane in a pond

35. Full sleeve koi pond with leaves

36. Sakura branches over a temple

37. Bamboo and tiger stalking in the mist

38. Female samurai (Onna-Bugeisha) portrait

39. Dragon and snake entangled in combat

40. Masked ninja disappearing into smoke

41. Carp swimming downriver means acceptance

42. Blossoming plum trees

43. Japanese folding fan with scenic designs

44. Broken katana with blood drops

45. Bamboo forest with full moon

46. Kitsune in human disguise

47. Traditional Japanese battle scene

48. Octopus rising from the ocean depths

How to Design a Tattoo

1. Koi fish are swimming upstream:

• Draw the minimalist shape of a moving koi body against the waves.
• Exaggerate the tenacity by pointing the fish upward.
• Go with bright colors, such as red, gold, and black.

2. A majestic dragon wrapped around the arm:

• Begin at the shoulder for the dragon’s head.
• Wind the body spirally around the arm.
• Description: Let us not forget to erase those scales and claws.

3. Cherry blossoms, petals blowing in the wind:

• Sketch random small petals running along the skin.
• Make something heading left to right, or something that’s moving up.

4. A fierce tiger is crawling across the chest:

• Place the tiger’s face by the heart.
• Stretch its body and claws outwards.
• It’s just strong shading and muscle details.

5. Samurai Warrior in Full Armor:

• Draw the warrior in a cool pose.
• Detail Armor Plates & Helmet.
• Images of sands, clouds, or waves are used to accentuate the effect.

6. The Hannya mask symbolizes transformation:

• Sketch the regular demon face mask.
• Keep a lot of expressive eyes and sharp teeth in there.
• You can bring it in with dark shading to your pic for secrecy and depth.

7. Phoenix rising from the ashes:

• Depict the phoenix flying in ready flight, legs down;2 wings displayed.
• Far below, a maelstrom of flames and ash.
• Opt for rich oranges, reds, and golds.

8. Oni demon with intense eyes:

 

• Sketch the face of a monster with horns and wild hair.
• Make its eyes bulge and scary.
• Background smoke adds drama.

9. Geisha holding a fan:

• Elegantly sketch a geisha in a traditional kimono.
• Put an elegant-looking fan in her hand.
• Loose background of cherry blossoms.

10. Waves breaking with a floating lotus:

• Draw some strong blue waves.
• Place a serene lotus flower during the chaos.
• Symbolizes peace amid chaos.