Tattoo

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas – [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Japanese dragons symbolize many different qualities. for some, the images represent strength, power, masculinity, or sexual passion. for others, the dragon represents longevity, luck, and wisdom.

For the Japanese, these mythical creatures are symbols of forces that use their strength for the good of others. the Asian dragon is usually depicted as a wingless serpent.

A sleeping dragon tattoo design signifies that the wearer possesses quiet strength and power that rise to the occasion when needed. a dragon rising towards the sun signifies ascension, progress, or a life journey. a dragon’s claw could represent a battle for evil, destruction, or bravery and power.

The benevolent Asian dragon, or ryu, is also often a combination of many creatures. the eyes look demonic. it could have the neck and belly of a snake, the horns of a deer, and scales taken from koi fish. a claw is often shown grasping a semi-precious gem, such as a pearl.

Dragon tattoo designs are created in various styles including abstract, cartoonish, dramatic, or realistic. while some are done in blackwork, more often than not, the image contains bright, vividly bold colors.

1. Japanese dragon tattoos on the full back

Since Japanese dragon tattoos tend to be incredibly intricate and detailed, the back is the most popular place to show off the true majesty of your piece. the back is the largest canvas of the human body.

Wrap the dragon back and forth over the folds of your muscles. incorporate a full scene with multiple characters in your portrayal. Regardless of the style you choose, your full back Japanese dragon tattoo will be a sight to behold.

Traditional Japanese back tattoos, known as sekura, used to use displays of dragons, especially in full back and full body tattoo art. This is one of the most expensive pieces to tattoo due to the amount of time and labor required to bring a piece like this to life.

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

2. japanese dragon sleeve tattoos

Carry a symbol of good fortune on your shoulder with a Japanese dragon sleeve tattoo. the elongated curve of this mythical creature adapts perfectly to the cylindrical shape of your arm.

If you’re thinking of a smaller piece, have your tattoo artist wrap a smaller dragon around your forearm, because it’s not the size of the dragon that counts. Regardless of its size, a dragon tattoo design still looks fierce.

A good idea to get a tattoo is to incorporate other images from Japanese mythology or decorate the rest of the space with more contemporary designs. The koi fish is a frequent companion of dragons, as both are considered symbols of good fortune and prosperity.

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

3. Japanese dragon tattoos on the chest

Let the dragon face things first with a Japanese dragon tattoo on the chest. use the dragon head over your heart while the rest extends over your shoulder and down your arm.

or spread the creature over your pecs.

an awesome tattoo design is to take the head and expand it over your heart. its long sinuous body snakes through yours. or use the chest as a main stage for a theatrical performance that spans both of your arms.

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

4. linework japanese dragon tattoos

For a more complex yet simple option, consider a line tattoo. While Japanese dragon tattoos often come drenched in a myriad of colors, your tattoo artist can create a ghostly effect by focusing on an outline of black ink.

incorporates a sketchy technique to give the appearance of a wind spirit. or enjoy geometric patterns to give your Japanese dragon extra dimensions.

Because Japanese dragon tattoos are so complex and time-consuming for both the artist and the recipient, they require multiple sessions, so the artist will do all the line work first. Some of the pieces shown below are works in progress, but even in stages, the Japanese dragon tattoo design always looks fantastic.

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

5. japanese dragon leg tattoos

The leg is another great place to consider for your Japanese dragon tattoo. start at the top and move the beast down or wrap its mane around your ankle as it dashes forward. Take advantage of the thigh space and give your Japanese dragon room to roar.

For ideas on how to fill the space, flip through a traditional irezumi book for inspiration, or view more of our galleries. You can also talk to your Japanese tattoo artist and give him free rein to decorate with his favorite images.

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

6. neo-traditional japanese dragon tattoos

combines the traditional and the contemporary to create a neo-traditional Japanese dragon tattoo. the neo-traditional style takes the bold lines of the traditional style and incorporates realism or a bright touch into the imagery, giving your dragon an otherworldly feel.

While traditional Japanese-style tattoos depict dragons with a mix of comic and tragic traits, neo-traditional dragons tend towards the dark and fierce side. Consider if you want to use warm colors to invoke the fiery element of your Japanese dragon, or if you prefer cooler colors.

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

7. japanese dragon with flower tattoos

In irezumi, the most common floral representation is the lotus. Since the lotus is a flower that thrives in mud, it is used to represent struggle and efforts to overcome difficulties. it is also frequently associated with transformation and rebirth in Japanese culture.

A dragon tattoo with a lotus flower in Japanese tattoo art takes on a different meaning. the dragon alone represents freedom, while a dragon and a lotus flower together represent redemption. or you can take a leaf or flower from the traditional American design and scatter roses next to your Japanese dragon.

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

8. fantastic japanese dragon tattoos

Leave realism behind with a fantastic Japanese dragon tattoo idea. Use the traditional Japanese dragon base to launch yourself into another reality. Find inspiration in your favorite books and movies to create the most fantastic mythical creature of all.

make your dragon a herald of the seasons with autumn or winter features on its horns and trail. And no one said you only had to pick one, so don’t feel like you have to limit yourself!

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

9. Japanese dragon tattoos in black ink and gray scale

Using predominantly black ink gives your Japanese a particularly mysterious vibe, especially if you include clouds of black smoke alongside.

grayscale is also a fantastic option to consider for an especially smoky, ghostly look. Dotwork is also a great option to talk to your artist about as a way to fill in the skin between the curves of the dragon’s body.

and since black and gray ink is a bit cheaper than colored ink, you can spend a bit more on the complexity of the part itself.

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

Top 91 Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas - [2021 Inspiration Guide]

frequently asked questions about japanese dragon tattoos

what does the dragon symbolize in japan?

As part of Japanese mythology, dragons represent freedom, balance and good fortune. they are also associated with wisdom and protection. Traditional Japanese tattoos are also known as irezumi and include a wide variety of traditional images.

Japanese dragons are one of the most common visual representations and are also known as ryu tattoos. Ryu tattoos can be combined with other irezumi images to represent classic scenes from Japanese mythology.

what is the difference between japanese and chinese dragon tattoos?

Japanese and Chinese dragon tattoos have developed in the same way over a long period; they are sinuous and snake-like with narrow heads and sharp fangs.

The easiest way to tell them apart is that Japanese dragons are most often depicted as having three claws, while Chinese dragons have five.

what do pearls symbolize in japanese dragon tattoos?

The pearl is an important motif used in complex Japanese design. usually the ryu (dragon) seeks to obtain the orb, which is protected by other sacred animal symbols such as carp.

One argument put forward is that the pearl represents the jewel of all knowledge, while others argue that much like European dragons, the ryu seek wealth.

Did you like these Japanese dragon tattoo ideas? Click the links below to see more galleries celebrating the art of irezumi.

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