Interestingly, this fiery bird is both a figure of harmony and disharmony, descending from heaven at times of peace and fleeing back to its astral abode when strife inhabits the land. This mythical bird represents a number of other things, including fidelity, fire, justice, obedience, and the sun. In Japan, h ou-ou or the phoenix is symbolic of the imperial household. Hou-ou Tattoo aka Japanese Phoenix Tattoo Get inspired: 18 Killer Koi Fish Designs 10. These fish are native to Japan and have been a part of Japanese artistic culture for a very long time. They are symbolic of numerous things, but given their extraordinary lifespans, they are most commonly associated with longevity, persistence, and overcoming the trails of life. Get more Foo Dog tattoo ideas: Foo Dogs – The Mythological Lions of Traditional Japanese Tattoos 9. Often referred to as the “King of Beasts,” Karajishi or “guardian lions” are another popular image from traditional Japanese folklore. Statues of these lion-like mythological creatures have traditionally been placed at the entrances of palaces and temples to chase away evil spirits, hence them being well-known symbols of courage as well as guardianship. Read more: Traditional Japanese Tattoos of the Baku – Devourer of Nightmares 8. Karajishi Tattoo aka Foo Dog Tattoo In Japan it is still common-place to see a Baku talisman near the bed, especially in a childs room. They are typically depicted with the head of an elephant, the claws of a tiger, the body of a bear, and the tail of an ox. See more Kirin tattoo ideas: Traditional Japanese Tattoos of the Unicorn of the East – the Kirin 7. Baku TattooĪccording to legend, Baku are mythical creatures who aid in devouring nightmares. Kirin are traditionally rendered with the body of a deer, head of a dragon, the scales of a fish, hooves of a horse, mane of a lion, the tail of an ox, and a set of – or – single horn. The Kirin is seen as a good omen, signifying a better tomorrow achievable through the reflective process of mourning. Though its connotations of death seem like they would be sorrowful, this is not the case. The Kirin is another chimeral creature of Japanese folklore, and his rare appearance marks the passing of a sagely leader or ruler.
Get more inspiration: 12 Thunderous Raijin Tattoos 6. Kirin Tattoo He is often depicted beating on drums to roar throughout the skies as thunderbolts fly off of his extremities. According to legend, the two brothers are combative in nature and stormy weather is a result of their endless squabbling. While Fujin is the god of wind, Raijin - his rival brother - is the Shinto deity of lightning and thunder. The tapestry behind him is an enchanted object with which he controls air currents.
He is most often depicted as an oni (demon-like) figure with skin of glowing green or blue and is believed to have powers similar to that of a wizard. Though most commonly depicted as ‘humanoid’ nowadays, at one point, they were thought to take the form of birds of prey, hence the demonic creatures’ long noses which evolved from their predecessors’ beaks. Tengu are often illustrated as looking wrathful, and are frequently colored red to draw out their militant symbolism.įujin is commonly recognized as the Japanese deity of wind. Tengu are a form of yōkai (supernatural creatures or ghosts). They are generally associated with themes of destruction and war. Read more about Ryu: Tremendous Traditional Japanese Dragon Tattoos 2. His head is usually that of a camel, with the neck and belly of a snake, the scales of a koi fish, the talons of a hawk, chicken, or eagle, and the horns of a stag. Dragons tend to differ from one another as they are said to take on the characteristics of many creatures - typically depending on the animals it will encounter on its journey. Ryu are seen as a symbol of profound blessing, wisdom, and strength - due to their ability to manipulate the elements for the benefit of the people. Bakeneko Tattoos and Nekomata TattoosĪrguably the most recognizable creature in Japanese iconography is the Dragon. Maneki Neko Tattoos – Japanese Cat Tattoos The Great Wave off Kanagawa – Japanese Wave Tattoos Namazu Tattoo aka The Earthquake Catfish Tattoo Hitotsume-kozo Tattoos aka Tofu-kozo Tattoos 16 15. Heikegani Tattoo aka Japanese Crab Tattoo.14 13. Hebi Tattoo aka Japanese Snake Tattoo.12 11. Oni Tattoo aka Japanese Demon Tattoo.9 8. Karajishi Tattoo aka Foo Dog Tattoo.4 3. Kappa Tattoo aka Japanese Turtle Tattoo.1 Need help finding a tattoo artist for your idea?.