We all know that half sleeve tattoos are all the rage these days. Really, to be honest, any type of sleeve tattoo design is very popular right now. For many years, the trend among tattoo enthusiasts has been to continually up the ante and get larger and larger tattoos on their body. With an ever-widening social norm and the acceptance of tattoos in general, it is no surprise that so many people want to get sleeve designs.
Among the possibilities that exist for sleeve tattoos are tribal designs, skulls, flowers and other similar designs. However, one set of designs seems to be way above and beyond popular and those are Japanese sleeve tattoo designs, whether they are half, full or even quarter designs. Not only do men love these traditional Japanese designs, but women are also starting to get designs for themselves.
Why are they so cool?
Some may wonder what has made these designs so popular and what is so great about them anyway. Well, first and foremost is the story behind them. The Japanese have been practicing the art of tattoo design for centuries and have probably developed this art form more than almost any other culture. However, for a long time the designs were made in Yakuza or gang members. Since these were used to mark the men in the gang, they were often performed as tests of courage and a show of strength and power for these men. That of course leads to people wanting to get bigger and bigger designs and finally very early in Japanese history people were getting full body tattoo designs. Thus they lead to a host of amazing large scale full body tattoo designs and an amazing art form. As with many things, Japanese tattooists poured all their heart, soul and body into the development and refinement of the art that has resulted in some of the best designs in history. They have been widely adopted and have massive appeal to Western audiences due to their rich and deep symbolism and the foreign sentiment they represent.
Themes for boys
There are so many different designs that the Japanese have developed over time. Like many things, these are often divided into sets or categories of designs. Some of the most popular designs for men are listed below.
Samurai – Of course, the samurai were the warrior class in feudal Japan and they were seen as the ultimate fighter and also as a great example of morality that every Japanese citizen should attribute. Here in the west, we often identify with the power and brute force of the samurai.
Gods – Another very common design used in Japanese tattoo arts is the gods. These could be, and often are, angry gods and spirits. These are seen as symbols of good luck as they will scare away evil spirits.
Dragons – Of course we have our own sets of dragons and mythological rhythms here in the west, but there is something mysterious, unique and very original in many of the Japanese dragon designs. Hence, it has led many here in the west to want to get a Japanese dragon tattoo.
Geisha – Yes, there was a connection between the sexy and the women of the water world called Geisha. However, they were not mere prostitutes. They were highly skilled and skilled craftsmen and amazing entertainers. Many men love the beauty, power, and mystery that a geisha brings. It is the Japanese equivalent of the pinup girl tattoo.
This is a two-part article to learn about the best designs for women. See part 2.