7 Tips to Get a Traditional Japanese Tattoo
- Choose a Kanji character to represent a certain word or expression.
- Select a traditional animal from Japanese culture. Choose an animal whose meaning represents your personality.
- Incorporate the natural beauty of Japanese flora in your tattoo with a delicate cherry blossom, lotus flower or other floral design. The Japanese revere the serene beauty of the world around; if natural beauty is something you hold a deep appreciation for as well, consider demonstrating that appreciation through your tattoo.
- Take a page from other traditional Japanese landscaping elements for your tattoo.
- Use a temple scene or a rendering of the Buddha in your tattoo design if you want to pay homage to traditional Japanese spirituality.
- Place your tattoo on your arms, shoulders or back in keeping with Japanese tradition.
- Opt for a bold statement if you really want a tattoo in the Japanese tradition. A typical Japanese tattoo often spans the length and width of the back.