The meaning behind Japanese gangster tattoos

The ways and rules of the yakuza have always fascinated Westerners, as evidenced by the popularity of the Japanese crime genre in movies and in games like Sega’s. Like a Dragon: Like a Dragonwhose Amazon Prime live-action remake The film will be released on October 14. Beyond the gritty lifestyle, however, there’s also an alluring aesthetic: the intricate and symbolic tattoos that adorn gang members’ skin.

The History of Tattoos: From Punishment to Pride

Edo period (1603)–1868)tattoos were used to mark criminals. Those who commit serious crimes are often punished Enter the spring system – Tattoo Punishment – They have specific designs brandished on their faces or arms as a form of public humiliation and a permanent reminder of their misdeeds.

For centuries, the stigma associated with tattoos still exists in Japan today. Many spas, beaches, pools and gyms require tattoos to be covered up, reflecting society’s lingering aversion to visible body art.

However, gang members embraced Enter the spring As a way of passing through rites of passage and demonstrating its properties. They usually receive tattoos from designated people Horishi Tattoo artists draw their own designs with their hands. For young thugs who want to join a gang, the cost of a tattoo is often offered as a reward if they agree to join and pay off their debts.

when a Horishi When agreeing to give a young gang member a tattoo, they often engage in in-depth conversations, sharing their life stories with the member. The tattooing process is long and painful, requires great endurance, and symbolizes their commitment to the gang.

Together they created a tattoo design that reflected a vision of good luck. So what do these tattoos reveal about gang members? While this is not an exhaustive list, here are some common themes and what they represent.

dragon

Dragons have been a cornerstone of Japanese culture for centuries. They symbolize wisdom, strength and protection. Their color adds depth to their meaning. Black represents wisdom and ancestral connections, gold represents great personal qualities, yellow represents nobility, blue represents respect and forgiveness, and green represents the earth and nature.

In addition to color, there are many dragon variations. For example, the protagonist of “Kazuma Kiryu” Like a Dragon: Like a Dragon — has a tattoo of an Oryu dragon: a rain god who bestows power on the emperor.

tigers

The tiger is associated with metal and earth, symbolizing primal strength and power. They are often depicted as rivals to the dragon, representing opposing but equal forces. The tiger is sometimes combined with the dragon and represents the yin and yang balance of the universe.

Tiger is related to Yin, being down-to-earth and accumulating quiet power. The Dragon represents Yang, the active energy that creates movement. The combination of the two symbolizes the perfect balance of power.

Phoenix King (Phoenix)

One of the meanings behind the Phoenix pattern is the arrival of good fortune, compassion and grace. According to ancient Chinese legends, Phoenix, also known as Phoenix. HououIt is said that there are five colors of feathers: red, yellow, blue, white and black. It is a symbol of peace and prosperity.

Koi (Japanese carp)

According to legend, only a few koi are able to swim across Longmen Falls, a daunting obstacle in their journey. Those who succeed are rewarded with transformation into dragons, making them powerful symbols of perseverance and determination.

Different colors also have different meanings. For example, the herring symbolizes masculinity and success in overcoming obstacles. At the same time, the red carp represents the female form, as well as strong love, strength and bravery.

snake

In Japan, snakes are associated with wealth, good luck, wisdom, and protection. They are also regarded as the guardians and bringers of rain. In addition to their ability to shed their skin, snakes have long been considered to symbolize rebirth and infinity, bringing unlimited wisdom and wealth.

Fudo Myooh’s tattoo

Buddhist figures

There are countless Buddhist figures, such as Fudo Myooh, also known as Fudo. He is the protector of Buddhist teachings, removing obstacles on the path to enlightenment and forcing evil forces to submit.

Then there is Amitabha, who is regarded as a compassionate god who guides people to the blissful world of the Western Pure Land. Amitabha’s attribute of infinite longevity symbolizes that Amitabha can save all sentient beings from suffering and lead them to enlightenment.

Kukai (Kōbo Daishi) practices Tantra with ghosts and wolves, by Katsushika Hokusai

them

Ghost is a kind of monsteror Japanese ghosts, often depicted as demons. Their appearance varies greatly in different stories, sometimes as benevolent characters, sometimes as malevolent characters. They often symbolize strength, protection, anger, and protection against evil.

Prajna mask tattoo below belly button

Prajna

The Hannya mask comes from Japanese Noh drama and represents a woman consumed by jealousy and rage. It conveys strong emotions such as anger, sadness and resentment. It usually symbolizes passion, bravery, jealousy and humanity. Red masks emphasize anger and rage, while white masks can suggest a more refined or spiritual interpretation.

Cherry blossoms

Since cherry blossoms have a short lifespan, they symbolize impermanence and beauty. They are also associated with the Way of the Warrior. As the saying goes, “Sakura among flowers, samurai among men.”

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