Japanese tattoo style is known for a couple of things. It’s highly detailed, uses high contrast, and tells a story while following the natural curve of the body. All in all, it’s definitely a technique admired by many but mastered by some.
If you’d love to get a tattoo made in this style, you may feel torn between all the options that are out there. Japanese culture has a lot to offer which is reflected in their tattoos as well. So, to help you figure out what design to opt for, we made a list of some of the possibilities that will keep you speechless.
1. Wind and cherry blossoms
Wind bars are one of the most common background elements that Japanese tattoos are known for. Together with cherry blossoms, you’ll definitely get a tattoo that has those well-known Japanese vibes.
2. Traditional peony design
Peonies are a common motif in Japanese culture. So, if you’re looking for an easy way to get a tattoo that will represent the land of the rising Sun, this is your solution.
3. Chrysanthemum tattoo
As a symbol of longevity, grace, and happiness, the chrysanthemum is one of the flowers you’ll spot often in Japanese tattoos. Full of details, it can look amazing no matter if you opt for a colorful version of it or if you keep it black and white.
4. Lotus tattoo
Lotus grows out of mud which is why it represents rebirth and transformation. It’s a great symbol if you’re looking for a tattoo that will embrace the changes you’ve been through in life.
5. Cherry blossom omamori
You can’t get a Japanese-style tattoo without including cherry blossoms in the design. If you’re looking for a slightly different design, you can opt for omamori or an amulet of good luck that will follow you everywhere you go.
6. Daruma tattoo
Daruma is a Japanese doll that’s supposed to bring good luck and prosperity. So, when you’re looking for an authentic Japanese motif, this could be the way to go.
7. Koi fish
Even if you never heard of Japanese-style tattoos, the chances are that you’ve already seen some people rocking their koi fish tattoos. As a symbol of strength, perseverance, and good fortune, this tiny creature is a famous motif present in Japanese culture.
8. Hannya mask
You may have already realized that a lot of Japanese tattoos symbolize prosperity and good luck. Well, things are no different with this one. Hannya mask is a talisman against evil and negativity. Besides its meaning, we’re obsessed with its design and color combination.
9. Oni mask
Onni mask has a similar meaning since it serves as a protection for those who believe in the spiritual world. If you’re looking for a black and gray tattoo, maybe you’ll like this one.
10. Tiger tattoo
If you’re into animal and Japanese-style tattoos, you can combine those two things into a design such as this one. The combination of different elements, black and gray ink, and a pop of color on lotus flowers will leave you with a perfect tattoo.
11. Tiger and dragon
Getting a tattoo of a tiger and a dragon doesn’t have to mean you’ll end up with a classical design. When you’re into Japanese tattoos, be prepared since your new ink will look something like this.
12. Cat tattoo
Cats are popular in Japanese culture as people often see them as symbols of good luck and fortune. You can play with the design however you want since these furry creatures tend to be portrayed as playful and fun.
13. Snake tattoo
This vibrant tattoo includes a snake and a peony, two elements common to this tattoo style. It’s a great idea if you’re looking for something colorful and noticeable.
14. Octopus tattoo
Surrounded by waves and lotus flowers, you can get an octopus tattoo that will symbolize adaptability and intelligence. If this design seems like a bit too much, you can always tone things down and opt for something a bit smaller in size.
15. Frog tattoo
Getting a frog tattoo may seem like an odd idea but you’ll notice that frogs are common in Japanese tattoo culture. They symbolize good luck and fertility and allow you to play with the design however you want.
16. Geisha tattoo
We can’t talk about Japanese tattoos without mentioning geishas. As a symbol of beauty, grace, and femininity, a tattoo of a geisha is a perfect idea if you’re looking for something that will represent Japanese culture without hassle.
17. Samurai daruma doll
We’ve already given you an idea with daruma doll and this time, we’ll take things to the next level by turning the doll into a samurai warrior. This is a more subtle approach to the traditional samurai tattoos which tend to be complex and detailed since they’re often used to tell a story.
18. Colorful samurai sleeve
Now, if you’re looking for an impressive design that will burst with colors and details, this is exactly what you need. Highly expressive, this tattoo will tell a story without even saying a word.
19. Dragon sleeve
When you think of a Japanese tattoo, the chances are that you picture a dragon. If that sounds like your cup of tea, then you may love the idea of wearing a dragon on your sleeve instead of a heart.
20. Smaller dragon tattoo
However, if you’re looking for something a bit more simple, you can opt for a design such as this one. It still has the Japanese vibes you’re looking for but it’s not as complicated as the previous design.
