Japanese Dragon Tattoos

The Dragon

Our English word for this mythical creature actually comes from the Greek word drakon, a term which means a serpent or seafish. Most ancient cultures throughout Europe and into Persia saw the dragon as a malevolent creature, causing only evil to those who saw it. During medieval times, dragons in Europe were seen as a symbol of heresy and treachery, as well as being an image that brought doom, anger and calamity.

Asian Dragons

In Eastern cultures, however, the dragon means the complete opposite. Throughout the countries of China and Japan (as well as other Asian cultures), the dragon is a symbol of benevolence. The Chinese definitely see the dragon as a good luck symbol, along with being a representation of wisdom.

Japanese Dragon

The Japanese dragon is known as ryu, and it is a legendary creature that is associated with large bodies of water, or the clouds and the heavens. It is different from other dragons in Asia because of its three-toed feet, where other dragons in the area have four or five.

Zodiac Dragon

One of the reasons that dragons are popular among Chinese and Japanese tattoos is because of its relation to the Chinese zodiac. One of the symbols within this zodiac is the Dragon - and people born in the years 1916. 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988 and 2000 are said to have been born in the Year of the Dragon.

Japanese Dragon Tattoos

The Japanese follow the Chinese zodiac very closely, and it is not uncommon for people born in one of the Dragon years to get Japanese dragon tattoos.

Devotees of video games and anime might also be inspired to get a dragon tattoo - shows such as Dragon Ball showcase dragons and their mythical powers. The video game series Dragon Quest features many interactions with dragons throughout the games.

Whether mythical or modern, the dragons represented in tattoos from Japan will always have three toes, as well as being intricately swirled and snake shaped. Additionally, Japanese dragons usually have wings and a horned mammal's head (such as a goat).

Dragon Tattoo Ideas

There are many places on the Internet which can provide inspiration for your Japanese dragon tattoos - and there are also more unique ways to find inspiration. Beautifully decorated Japanese tapestries and paintings can be an excellent source for an image to tattoo, and books and drawings of ancient times are also good for ideas.

Many tattoo parlors will also have flash art of dragons available for use, but be careful. Many of these dragons may be of the Chinese or European variety, and if you are looking for an authentic and truly Japanese tattoo, it may be hard to find among flash.

Here are some websites that can help you in your quest for the perfect dragon tattoo:

• Tattoofinder.com has a large selection of dragons and Japanese tattoos that include dragons. Most of their artwork is not free - you will need to pay in order to download these images.
• TattooJohnny also has a large selection of dragons, ranging from large pieces to those that just feature dragon wings.
• BMEzine has many pictures of dragon tattoos under their "Fantasy Tattoos" heading.
• Samurai Tattoo Designs has a selection of Japanese dragon designs.(not free) Most of them are based on Japanese Family Crests.