An Intro to The Mythological Creatures of Japanese Irezumi

Ever wonder what all those creatures symbolize? You’ve come to the right place.

A mainstay of the tattoo community and culture, Japanese tattoos are culturally influential and illustrate a bevy of beautiful, terrifying, and downright mystifying creatures. Since there are so many characters within Japanese mythology and iconography, we figured we’d give you a list of the 50 top Japanese tattoo design motifs out there. Of course, there are literally thousands more but we hope this will be a primer for those of you are who interested in knowing more about the origins, characteristics, and meaning behind some of your favorite tattoo art.

1. Ryu Tattoo aka Japanese Dragon Tattoo

Arguably the most recognizable creature in Japanese iconography is the Dragon. Ryu are seen as a symbol of profound blessing, wisdom, and strength — due to their ability to manipulate the elements for the benefit of the people. Dragons tend to differ from one another as they are said to take on the characteristics of many creatures — typically depending on the animals it will encounter on its journey. His head is usually that of a camel, with the neck and belly of a snake, the scales of a koi fish, the talons of a hawk, chicken, or eagle, and the horns of a stag.

2. Tengu Tattoo

Tengu are a form of yōkai (supernatural creatures or ghosts). They are generally associated with themes of destruction and war. Though most commonly depicted as ‘humanoid’ nowadays, at one point, they were thought to take the form of birds of prey, hence the demonic creatures’ long noses which evolved from their predecessors’ beaks. Tengu are often illustrated as looking wrathful, and are frequently colored red to draw out their militant symbolism.

3. Kappa Tattoo aka Japanese Turtle Tattoo

The myth of this monstrous bipedal turtle derives from stories of giant salamanders who would reach out of shallow river beds to grab the unsuspecting with their powerful jaws. Kappa are notorious troublemakers and tricksters — who like peek up kimonos, kidnap children, and assault young females when they’re least expecting it (what the hell?).
The Kappa’s defining characteristic is a small cavity (or plate) of water located in its skull. When this cavity is dry he is powerless, so the answer to defeating a Kappa is to bow before him. Kappa apparently have a certain penchant for politeness — and will be compelled to bow back, thus spilling the water plate.

4. Fujin Tattoo

Fujin is commonly recognized as the Japanese deity of wind. He is most often depicted as an oni (demon-like) figure with skin of glowing green or blue and is believed to have powers similar to that of a wizard. The tapestry behind him is an enchanted object with which he controls air currents.

5. Raijin Tattoo

While Fujin is the god of wind, Raijin — his rival brother — is the Shinto deity of lightning and thunder. He is often depicted beating on drums to roar throughout the skies as thunderbolts fly off of his extremities. According to legend, the two brothers are combative in nature and stormy weather is a result of their endless squabbling.

Get more inspiration: 12 Thunderous Raijin Tattoos

6. Kirin Tattoo

The Kirin is another chimeral creature of Japanese folklore, and his rare appearance marks the passing of a sagely leader or ruler. Though its connotations of death seem like they would be sorrowful, this is not the case. The Kirin is seen as a good omen, signifying a better tomorrow achievable through the reflective process of mourning.
Kirin are traditionally rendered with the body of a deer, head of a dragon, the scales of a fish, hooves of a horse, mane of a lion, the tail of an ox, and a set of – or – single horn.

7. Baku Tattoo

According to legend, Baku are mythical creatures who aid in devouring nightmares. In Japan it is still common-place to see a Baku talisman near the bed, especially in a childs room. They are typically depicted with the head of an elephant, the claws of a tiger, the body of a bear, and the tail of an ox.

8. Karajishi Tattoo aka Foo Dog Tattoo

Often referred to as the “King of Beasts,” Karajishi or “guardian lions” are another popular image from traditional Japanese folklore. Statues of these lion-like mythological creatures have traditionally been placed at the entrances of palaces and temples to chase away evil spirits, hence them being well-known symbols of courage as well as guardianship.

9. Koi Tattoo aka Japanese Fish Tattoo

These fish are native to Japan and have been a part of Japanese artistic culture for a very long time. They are symbolic of numerous things, but given their extraordinary lifespans, they are most commonly associated with longevity, persistence, and overcoming the trails of life.

10. Hou-ou Tattoo aka Japanese Phoenix Tattoo

In Japan, hou-ou or the phoenix is symbolic of the imperial household. This mythical bird represents a number of other things, including fidelity, fire, justice, obedience, and the sun. Interestingly, this fiery bird is both a figure of harmony and disharmony, descending from heaven at times of peace and fleeing back to its astral abode when strife inhabits the land. Because of this, it is seen as an emblem of new eras, whether they be better times or worse. In Irezumi, they are generally depicted as having avian physiology with particularly long necks and scales like snakes along with peacock tail-feathers.

11. Oni Tattoo aka Japanese Demon Tattoo

Oni are the the demons and devils of Japanese art. They are typically depicted as being largely humanoid minus their claws, fangs, horns, and often vibrantly colored skin. Oni are frequently illustrated as wearing loin cloths and wielding weapons such as katanas and kanabō — massive, studded clubs. These little demons are the harbingers of disaster, disease, and other things that plague humanity.

12. Kitsune Tattoo aka Japanese Fox Tattoo

Kitsune are revered as extremely intelligent creatures, rumored to be immortal as well as magical. According to some accounts they continue aging until they grow old enough to become Tenko — celestial foxes — and ascend into the heavens. They purportedly can shoot lightning and fire from their mouths, fly, and psychically will dreams into the minds of others. In other legends, they even have been reported as being shapeshifters that turn into humans to either find love or drain the life-force from unsuspecting mates.

See more designs of Japanese foxes: The Magical Folklore Behind Kitsune Tattoos

13. Hebi Tattoo aka Japanese Snake Tattoo

The hebi or snake have a wide range of symbolism in Japanese culture, but are often depicted as sharp-toothed guardian creatures that protect coveted riches and treasures. The snake can also symbolize rebirth, transformation, and the continual renewal of life.

14. Fudo Myoo Tattoo

Fudo Myoo, which in Japanese means “Wise King Acala,” is a Buddhist deity that was imported into Irezumi’s canon as the religion spread into the country. Though he has many interpretations, Fudo Myoo is generally seen as a wrathful protector, one who vanquishes spiritual impediments in order to help the faithful attain enlightenment. He is generally depicted as having an angry face with a wrinkled brow, pointy fangs, and squinted eyes. Traditionally, he holds numerous symbolic items, such as the three-pronged vajra sword and nooses.

15. Heikegani Tattoo aka Japanese Crab Tattoo

These disgruntled-looking crustaceans actually populate the beaches of Japan, and their backs really do look like scrunched-up angry faces. Though the Heikegani or “samurai crab” exists literally, their natural appearance has been borrowed into to Irezumi to figuratively represent the spirits of fallen warriors.

16. Nue Tattoo

This chimeric creature is straight out of The Tale of the Heike — the nearly a millennium-old Japanese epic poem. It is most commonly depicted as having an ape’s face, the body of a tiger, and a snake for a tail. In the text, it describes a mysterious cloud of black smoke and a haunting voice. After the arrival of this ominous figure, the emperor at the time, Nijō, becomes seriously ill. Since no medicinal or spiritual remedies have any effect on him, he and his advisers deem it a curse brought on by the supernatural figure of the Nue. Nijō commands his best archer, Minamoto no Yorimasa, to go slay the beast. The archer’s apprentice, Ino Haya, then takes one of his master’s arrows, hunts down the Nue, and kills it, saving the emperor in the process.

17. Namakubi Tattoos

Not only a reminder of the impermanence of this life but an homage to the many great warriors and samurai of Japan’s history, Namakubi tattoos are images of severed heads. Usually covered in spots of blood, other details can include daggers, rope, and arrows. These images have their roots in the history of feudal Japan when serious wars were being fought and many honorable rituals were in place including Seppuku, often called Hari Kari. Used as both a suicide ceremony and capital punishment, Seppuku involved self-disembowelment followed by beheading. Namakubi tattoos are a grisly reminder of honorable actions, respect, courage, and overcoming fear.

18. Sakura: Cherry Blossom Tattoos

The Japanese have an immense respect for the natural world and the cycle of life it represents. Cherry blossom tattoos are a perfect embodiment of this. The Japanese have a history of practicing Buddhism and embracing impermanence is a large part of that. These beautiful flowers bloom and then wither usually in the space of 14 days. Cherry blossom tattoos usually capture them at their fullest, but they are still symbolic of the short, yet sweet, time we spend on Earth.

19. Hannya Tattoos

Commonly used in Noh theater, Hannya masks are the faces of demonic females who have been cursed by their jealousy, obsession, and anger. Hannya tattoos are widely popular pieces to get not only because of their historical symbolism and depictions in Japanese culture but also because they’re visually captivating. Hannya’s can come in many different colors, but each one represents the social standing of the woman. A white Hannya tattoo illustrates a female of noble birth, while red denotes a provincial serf or peasant. The deepest shade of red, and black, is reserved for the darkest demons whose soul no longer remotely harks to the woman she used to be.

20. Hitotsume-kozo Tattoos aka Tofu-kozo Tattoos

They may look like a cute bald-headed monk, but Hitotsume-kozo, or Tofu-kozo tattoos, are actually depictions of a specific goblin-like yokai that comes in the form of a mischievous child or “kozo”: a monk in training. Like a cyclops, Hitotsume-kozo have one eye in the center of their head but they’re mostly known for popping up when you least expect it with a little block of tofu on a plate! Unlike some of the other yokai on this list, Hitotsume-kozo tattoos are illustrations of a generally harmless little guy who is just looking for some fun.

21. Namazu Tattoo aka The Earthquake Catfish Tattoo

Namazu tattoos are inspired by the folktale of a giant catfish who hides under the mud waiting for the chance to cause earthquakes. Japan is frequented by earthquakes, so it makes sense that they would have a legend surrounding this horrific hazard. Namazu is guarded by Kashima, also known as Takemikazuchi, the god of thunder and swords. Often Namazu tattoos depict Kashima keeping the catfish under control with a giant stone but there are certainly other characters you’ll see swimming alongside this creature.

22. Botan Tattoos aka Peony Tattoos

Known as The King of Flowers, peony tattoos are highly regarded in Japanese mythology and culture. Known in Japan as “botan”, peonies have many metaphors surrounding them. Surprisingly enough, peony trees are not native to Japan and are thought to have been brought over from China by a Buddhist monk. A peony tattoo has many meanings that range from bravery, courage, honor, good fortune, romance, and prosperity. One of the most beautiful motifs of Japanese tattoos, a botan tattoo, or peony tattoo, is a wonderful addition to any Irezumi collection.

23. Geisha Tattoos

Although like some of the motifs in this list are taken from folklore, Geisha tattoos depict one of the most famous aspects of Japanese culture and they are, as you know, quite real. But that doesn’t mean they don’t show up in some famous fairy tales and legends. Geisha have been known to be muses; they are the perfect epitome of an artful existence, which is something very inherent to much of Japanese life. Geisha tattoos are perhaps some of the most popular designs to get and it’s not hard to see why.

24. Koinobori Tattoos

Fish have heavily influenced all parts of Japanese culture. From savory sushi to legends of earthquake causing catfish, Koinobori tattoos are another example of just how important sea and ocean-faring creatures are in Japan. These pieces actually depict a windsock, which is much like a flag. Many families, long ago, started to fly these on poles attached to their homes in honor of Boy’s Day, a festival celebrating sons. Although Boy’s Day still exists it has since evolved into a national holiday called Children’s Day since Koinobori tattoos still represent the vitality of children since carp and koi have so much energy they have no problem swimming upstream!

25. The Great Wave off Kanagawa – Japanese Wave Tattoos

Based on the famed Ukiyo-e woodblock print created by Hokusai, Japanese wave tattoos depict the work of art called “The Great Wave off Kanagawa”. Although this is perhaps the most well-known and reproduced image of his, there are actually 35 other images that are part of a series Hokusai created called “Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji”. Many contemporary renditions that turn this print into a Japanese wave tattoo forego the detail of the mountain looming in the background. Mount Fuji is a source of national pride for many Japanese people, and the Great Wave framing it speaks to the majestic beauty and strength of nature.

Need help finding a tattoo artist for your idea?

26. Kasa-obake Tattoos: The Umbrella Demon

A perfect example of how traditional Japanese values and ideas develop into imagery, Kasa-obake tattoos are umbrellas that have turned into demons. In Shintoism, ordinary objects will gather what is called “kami” or spirit over time; these objects are then called Tsukumogami. Apparently, the legend goes that this happens on the household tools 100th birthday, wherein they have lived for so long that they are now endowed with awareness. Many Kasa-obake tattoos are actually taken from a famous film called “Yokai Monsters: 100 Monsters” from 1968. Mostly a funny, quirky, and mischevious character, Kasa-obake tattoos are perfect for people who love the humorous bits of Japanese culture.

27. Jorogumo Tattoos – The Spider Woman

Jorogumo tattoos have a fascinating history that spans many different legends and stories; some are even specific to the location and geography of Japan. This particular Japanese icon is a demon that can morph from a Spider Woman into a beguiling lady who charms her victims with beauty. However, some Jorogumo tattoos are actually based on the scenic waterfall Kashikobuchi located in Sendai, Japan. The Spider Woman in the legend of Kashikobuchi is actually worshipped for her power to fend off water disasters. but be warned, she’ll still kill you if she gets the chance.

28. Japanese Toad Tattoos

If you haven’t already guessed, natural life is a very important aspect of Japanese life, as well as Japanese mythology, so much of the iconography within the folktales uses animals as a key character. Japanese toad tattoos are a great example of this, and an awesome addition to any Irezumi tattoo collection. Often, Japanese toad tattoos are symbols of prosperity, wealth, success, and good luck, which is why you may see a toad tattoo that includes gold coins.

29. Saru Tattoos aka Japanese Monkey Tattoos

Another animal that has become a key figure in many legends and stories, Saru tattoos, also known as Japanese monkey tattoos, depict the cunning creature that all of us know and love. Saru tattoos usually come in the form of Noh masks, but they can also be confused for Son-gyoja, the Japanese version of the Monkey King. The meaning and feeling about monkeys has changed over the years in Japan. In the 8th century, they were thought of as mediators between gods and humans but were later thought of as obnoxious little tricksters.

30. Kabuki Theatre Tattoos

Dramatic musical theatre in Japan is much different than what you will experience in the west, but be assured, there’s still lavish costumes, make-up, and dramatic plots involved. In the 1600s women were the main performers and their exhibitions often involved risque scenarios. To make it even sexier, many of the performers in Kabuki theatre at that time were also prostitutes. The contemporary dance-drama has certainly evolved from its beginnings and many Kabuki Theatre tattoos concentrate on the elaborate costumes and make-up.

31. Other Japanese Mask Tattoos

Japanese culture is actually filled with masks, so there is tons of inspiration out there if you’re looking to get your own Japanese mask tattoo. Although Hannya’s may be the most popular and well-known, there are many other characters that have been used to create costumes. From Kitsune to Okame, if you dig a little deep into Noh, Kabuki, legends, and folklore, there may be something in particular that can influence the design of your Japanese mask tattoo.

32. Maneki Neko Tattoos – Japanese Cat Tattoos

Almost as iconic as Hello Kitty herself, Maneki Neko tattoos are illustrations of the lucky cat. Maneki Neko actually means “beckoning cat”, and it’s cute little upraised paw is meant to bring in fortune, wealth, and luck. You’ve probably seen this little guy sitting in the corner of your favorite Japanese or Chinese restaurant holding a gold coin. Maneki Neko tattoos are actually just one of the many Japanese cat tattoos you can get. The Japanese love their cats, so kitties will often be characters in mythology, folklore, and children’s stories.

33. Kintaro Tattoos

Directly translated as “Golden Boy” Kintaro tattoos are a nod to a famed legend of a young boy who became a hero by catching evil oni and more. There are many stories about this character, but perhaps the best origination story is the one where his mother was impregnated by a clap of thunder sent from a red dragon, which would explain his indefatigable strength, energy, and power. Many Kintaro tattoos show him with a giant carp, which comes from another folktale where he goes underwater to capture a trouble-making koi.

34. Yokai Tattoos

We’ve already mentioned many of them in this list, but Yokai tattoos are supernatural ghosts, demons, and spirits. They can range from deeply evil to kinda cute, but the great thing about yokai tattoos is that there are so many different ones to choose from. If you’re as in love with Japanese tattoos as we are, our advice is to dig in, read some fairytales, and choose a yokai tattoo that resonates with you. Each of them has their very own personality, specific powers, and they usually have a fascinating backstory, so make it fun and figure out which one is yours!

35. Monmon Cat Tattoos

With over twenty years of experience, Horitomo is a highly respected Japanese tattooer who owns State of Grace Tattoos in San Jose, California. Because Horitomo is deeply in love with tattooing and cats, it made sense to bring the two together to create Monmon cat tattoos. Our favorites include one tattooed cat giving another kitty a tebori tattoo, but there are so many different lil kitties in his collection, and he’s always coming up with more! He’s even included some tatted up mice just in case your cat needs a friend. or a snack.

36. Hyottoko Tattoos

Hyottoko tattoos usually come in the form of masks. He’s a very popular character that is the comedian of the theatre biz, but his legend goes quite far back into history. Originally he is actually known as the god of fire, and at times you’ll see Hyottoko tattoos that have a bamboo pipe stuck into his skewed mouth that blows fire! This piece is definitely best for those who not only love aspects of Japanese mythology and folklore but who also may be a class clown.

37. Bakeneko Tattoos and Nekomata Tattoos

Another cat within the insanely large and varied world of Japanese cat legends is that of Bakeneko, also known as Nekomata. Bakeneko tattoos and Nekomata tattoos are visual representations of yokai that have many different characteristics depending on the story your kitty comes from. Some of them can shapeshift into women, some drink blood, and others are just simply exactly like an ordinary house cat: difficult to control, very clever, and they have many nocturnal activities to keep them busy. Keep in mind that Bakeneko tattoos and Nekomata tattoos have one main difference: Nekomata have two tails, while Bakeneko only has one.

38. Shibari Tattoos

You may have seen images of women being tied into what look to be rather uncomfortable positions. These Japanese tattoos are based on the ancient art of rope tying. Recently shibari has exploded in popularity around the world resulting in a surge of clever shibari tattoos. We’ve seen lovely ladies, cats, and even roses depicted in knots, and although shibari isn’t directly