Japanese tattoos

A little history

Japanese tattoos (Irezumi) is one of the oldest tattoo styles. Tattooing in Japan is believed to have origins that trace back to the Jōmon period around 10,000 BC. Initially being used for ritual or status purposes, at a later stage tattoo marks began to be placed on criminals as a punishment. For many years, tattooing was illegal in Japan. It wasn't until 1948 that tattooing became legal. Despite this change, tattoos were still seen as a sign of criminality, often linked to the Yakuza, the Japanese mafia. Nowadays, younger people in Japan are starting to accept tattoos more, influenced by Western culture, but they still face some resistance and are not fully accepted by society.

Japanese tattoos at antiek

If you're interested in Japanese tattoos, check out the amazing work below of Anibal Fernandez, the founder of Antiek Tattoo. He specializes in this art form, and his Koi Fish designs have even won awards! You can learn more about Anibal and his unique style on his resident artist page. If you're a fan of Japanese tattoos and thinking about getting one, don't hesitate to contact him. Anibal is also skilled in cover-ups and freehand designs!

Japanese tattoos symbols

Japanese tattoo symbols, particularly in the traditional style known as Irezumi, are rich in meaning and cultural significance. Each symbol is chosen not only for how it looks but also for the deeper message it carries. These tattoos often represent personal qualities, dreams, or beliefs, connecting the wearer to their heritage and spiritual beliefs.

Geisha or Samurai: Often represent ideals of beauty, discipline, loyalty, or inner strength.

Hannya Mask: A jealous female demon, symbolizing complex emotions like rage, sorrow, or vengeance—but also protection from evil.

Dragon: Strength, wisdom, protection, and good fortune

Tiger: Courage, protection against evil, and strength

Koi Fish: Perseverance, determination, ambition

Snake: Protection, healing, and rebirth

Oni (Demon or Ogre): Dual role—can represent evil or a protective spirit that punishes wrongdoing

Cherry Blossoms: Beauty, the fleeting nature of life (impermanence), renewal

Waves and Water: Life’s constant motion, adaptability, strength

Peony: Wealth, honor, bravery, and masculine beauty

Nickname: "King of Flowers" in Japanese art

Phoenix: Rebirth, renewal, triumph over hardship