Japanese tattoos are often big, bright, bold and colourful. Featuring stylised representations of animals and elements, they have become popular all over the world – but there is some history behind them that anybody looking to get a Japanese-style tattoo should know.

Japanese tattoos, like many other cultural styles, are often associated with symbolic meaning. Known in Japanese as ‘irezumi’, the tattoos mark the bearer with specific qualities. However, they are also associated with the Japanese mafia (Yakuza), so can have negative connotations.

The natural images are usually associated with certain personality traits:

• Dragon – Strength/Wisdom/Protection

• Lion – Courage/Strength/Power

• Tiger – Strength/Bravery

• Koi – Strength/Bravery/Ambition

• Phoenix – Rebirth/Triumph

• Water – Life/Triumph or Power/Destruction

• Flower Tattoos like Cherry Blossom – Life/Love/Beauty

Because the style is so big and bold, those who choose a Japanese theme often incorporate more that one symbol into their pieces – our artists have created some amazing full back and chest pieces that have included many symbols, masterpieces in their own right.

Japanese style tattoos, often referred to as Irezumi or Horimono, stand out for their exceptional artistry and rich cultural significance. 

These 7 characteristics define japanese style traditional tattoos:

1. Deep symbolism
2. Traditional Techniques
3. Vibrant colours and bold lines
4. Mythological imagery / characters
5. Traditional stories and legends
6. Full body suit tattoos
7. Cultural heritage

Simply walk in to our premium tattoo parlour and get a free design consult for your dream traditional Japanese tattoo. 

Looking after your tattoo after it has been done is so important to maintain not only the integrity of the artwork, but also to protect yourself. After getting your tattoo done in our Abbotsford studio, this is what we recommend below.

Tattoos are wounds and should be treated carefully to make sure that no contamination happens, and because of this we dress all our tattoos with a Fixomull bandage.

The Fixomull bandage is a flexible, breathable bandage that we use instead of cling film. The Fixomull allows the tattoo to breathe and perspire, but prevents friction damaging the area and dirt from entering the wound.

The Fixomull must remain in place for 7 days to ensure the health and quality of the tattoo – you can wash the area as usual but be sure to use anti-bacterial soap.

You will need to be consistent about moisturising the tattooed area – speak to your artist to find out what they recommend for you.

After tattooing, you must not go swimming or have any strong UV exposure (sunbathing or sunbeds) for the first few weeks.

Looking after your tattoo properly will mean that your traditional Japanese tattoo from our Melbourne studio will remain bold, bright and colourful for many years to come.

Japanese tattoos can be placed on various body parts. Common placements include the back (often referred to as "Irezumi back pieces"), arms, legs, and chest. The placement choice often depends on the design and personal preference.

Not sure where to place your next Japanese  tattoo? Get in touch with Good Luck today and one of our expert artists will give you a consultation and answer any questions you might have. 

Yes! Japanese style tattoos can be easily combined with various styles like fine line, geometric, or black and grey. Good Luck expert artists can blend different styles, creating a unique and harmonious tattoo that suits your style and taste. 

Get in touch with us online or simply walk in to get a free design conultation.