Irezumi tattooing is a traditional Japanese tattoo art that has been around for centuries. The term “Irezumi” literally means “to insert ink,” referring to the process of inserting ink into the skin using a traditional method called tebori.
The Irezumi art is renowned for its large, colorful designs and deep symbolic meaning. Although originally associated with the criminal underworld such as the Yakuza, Irezumi tattoos have now become part of art and popular culture around the world. Each element in an Irezumi tattoo has a special meaning that reflects Japanese cultural values, such as courage, protection, perseverance, and honor.
The symbols of Irezumi tattoos and meanings associated with Japanese culture, spirituality and mythology. Here are some popular symbols and their meanings:
1. Dragon
The dragon is one of the most iconic symbols in Irezumi tattoos. Unlike Western mythology that depicts dragons as evil creatures, in Japanese culture, dragons are regarded as wise and powerful protectors. Dragons symbolize strength, wisdom, and generosity. They are believed to be able to control natural elements such as rain and wind, making them an ideal symbol of protection for tattoo owners. Dragon designs are often made with a coiled body, creating a dynamic sense of movement and strength.
2. Koi Fish
The koi fish is a symbol of perseverance, success, and transformation. A Japanese legend tells of a koi fish that swam against the current of the Yellow River to reach the Dragon Falls. After successfully surmounting the obstacle, the koi transformed into a dragon as a reward for its perseverance. In Irezumi tattoos, the koi fish is often depicted swimming against the current, symbolizing the struggle of life, unwavering determination, and the achievement of great goals.
3. Tiger (Tora)
Tigers symbolize strength, courage, and protection from evil spirits. In Japanese mythology, tigers are often considered guardian creatures that protect their owners from bad luck and danger. Tiger tattoo designs are often depicted with a fierce and passionate expression, reflecting courage and fighting spirit. Tigers are also associated with wild energy and freedom, making them an ideal symbol for those who want to show inner strength and protection.
4. Peony Flower (Botan)
Peonies in Irezumi tattoos are often used to balance masculine elements like dragons and tigers. Peonies symbolize prosperity, honor, and beauty. Its petal-filled design symbolizes wealth and success in life. The peony is also a symbol of a prosperous but temporary life, reminding the tattoo owner that wealth and luxury are not eternal.
5. Cherry Blossoms
Cherry blossoms are a symbol of life’s transience, fragile beauty, and the inevitable cycle of life. In Japanese culture, the brief blooming of cherry blossoms is considered a reminder that life is temporary and should be fully appreciated. Sakura designs in Irezumi tattoos are often combined with other symbols such as dragons or koi, adding a spiritual and philosophical dimension to the overall design.
6. Snake (Hebi)
Snakes have a complex symbolic meaning in Japanese culture. On the one hand, it is considered a protector and symbol of healing due to its ability to shed its skin, symbolizing transformation and renewal. Snakes are also associated with protection from disease and danger. In Irezumi tattoo designs snakes are often paired with cherry blossoms or peonies to create a balance between beauty and power.
7. Oni
Oni are mythological creatures often depicted as demons or evil spirits in Japanese folklore. Despite their fearsome faces, oni in the world of Irezumi tattoos are often considered guardians that protect tattoo owners from evil spirits and negative energy. Oni tattoos usually have ferocious facial expressions with striking colors like red, blue, and black, giving the impression of strength and courage.
8. Phoenix (Houou)
The phoenix is a symbol of reincarnation, resurrection, and victory after facing adversity. In Japanese legend, the phoenix emerges from the ashes after burning, symbolizing new life and hope after difficult times. Phoenix designs often have brightly colored feathers such as red, gold, and blue, creating a look that is both striking and full of spiritual meaning.
9. Sea Waves (Nami)
The ocean wave in an Irezumi tattoo symbolizes the power of nature and resilience in the face of life’s changes. Waves are often depicted with dynamic and undulating movements, creating a powerful symbol for the struggle against life’s hardships. The combination of waves with other symbols such as dragons or koi fish reinforces the meaning of protection and struggle.
10. Skull (Dokuro)
The skull is often misinterpreted as a symbol of death, but in Irezumi tattoos, the skull symbolizes life, courage in the face of death, and immortality. Skulls are often used to remind us that life is temporary and should be lived with passion and courage.
