Top 30 Samurai Tattoo Design Ideas (2023 Updated)

You can show the world that you’re a fierce and powerful guy. No one can mess with you, since you know who you are and where your power lays.

101 Best Samurai Sleeve Tattoo Ideas That Will Blow Your Mind!

Samurais have always been the pioneers of strength and self-discipline. Getting a samurai sleeve tattoo adds a fiery zest to your persona!

A samurai tattoo on your sleeve signifies the nobility of a warrior.

People go for a samurai sleeve tattoo on their sleeve as one of the eccentric tattoo ideas to hype up their love for body art. A samurai warrior tattoo is undoubtedly the best choice to experiment with funky designs on a traditional Japanese culture samurai.

Samurai tattoos are primarily drawn on the upper and lower arms, the chest, or the side of the neck. Getting a samurai tattoo on veiny body parts like the sleeve accentuates the design. Samurai tattoos are usually drawn in vivid colors. Several concepts can be integrated with a samurai sleeve tattoo design, such as an oni mask or cherry blossom. Samurai tattoo meanings are often those of bravery, loyalty and fearlessness.

Black And White Samurai Tattoos

This samurai black and white tattoo is one of the coolest tattoo designs for a samurai sleeve tattoo.

Tattoos with a samurai design are usually made into vivid colors, but this one is out of the box. Drawn on the sleeve below the elbow, it is a micro-realistic tattoo that is shaded subtly, giving it a strong appearance of the traditional Japanese samurai.

The samurai is seen holding his katana as in most tattoo designs of a samurai warrior tattoo. His half-masked face just shows the chin below his hat which represents suspense and strength, as is the reputation of the samurai in popular Japanese culture. This Japanese samurai tattoo has intricate details with all the arrows and motion strokes and can be rated a 7/10 on the pain scale.

Angry Samurai Tattoos

This angry samurai tattoo is drawn in black and red colors giving it a solid appearance of the Japanese culture samurai.

Getting this samurai tattoo on your upper sleeve is a great idea as it gets ample space to span out. The samurai tattoo ideas that use the colors red and black are the most popular due to the popularity of these colors in the Japanese culture oni masks.

Samurai tattoo ideas such as this one can be rated a 9/10 on the pain scale. The angry samurai here is holding his katana with a firm grip, and all of his faces are shrouded in a warrior’s form. There are dashes of red for shading. Below the tattoo design, there is a Chinese script writing. There are feathers on the head of the samurai, and black ink is used to make cherry blossoms behind the head of the samurai.

Female Samurai Tattoos

This oriental Japanese samurai tattoo is one of the most beautiful samurai side tattoo ideas to have as a sleeve tattoo.

Female samurai were called Onna-Bugeisha and their legends are as popular as their male counterparts. They fought in battles with the male warriors and getting a female samurai tattoo is one of the most popular tattoo designs these days.

This female samurai tattoo is drawn in black and cream color to match the skin shade of the tattoo enthusiast. the tattoo artist has inked in extensive detail the falling cherry blossoms on the face of the samurai and her crown. This tattoo symbolizes feminity as well as strength and melancholy. On the pain scale, you can rate this tattoo an 8/10 owing to its extensive detailing and large size.

Samurai Oni Mask Tattoo Designs

While “samurai” traditionally refers to male warriors and is symbolic of masculinity, there were some valorous female samurai as well. This female samurai tattoo has a masked face of a female samurai coupled with an oni mask.

The color gradient of this tattoo design is black, pink, and red. The face of the female samurai in the upper half and that of a terrifying ‘oni’ mask in the lower half makes this design eccentrically aesthetic. This is a Japanese-sleeve tattoo with red hues and various linework designs having deep meanings.

The female warriors in pre-modern Japan were known as “onna-musha” who fought in various battles alongside the samurai men. They belonged to the ‘bushi’ class and were trained to protect their household, family, and honor in times of war by using weapons. The samurai women still impact the martial art, literature, and pop culture of the Japanese.

This tattoo symbolizes women who are strong enough to deal well with a facilitating and hostile environment and still be able to succeed. this tattoo is for those proud women who believe that they can achieve anything

Samurai Helmet Tattoo

This samurai helmet tattoo is an illustration of a samurai demon who is wearing a large helmet, also known as Kabuto, with protective gear. The demeanor of the tattoo is very intense and shows the importance of protecting oneself in a dangerous situation even when you’re confident that you’ll win.

The helmet also shows the personality of the samurai and acts as a status symbol which gives us information about their class.

The ‘kabuto’ is treated as an object of honor and is very significant in Japanese culture, coupled with many other forms of the samurai tattoo. The tattoo is popular among both men and women, having a deep admiration for their culture and the samurais.

The Hannya Mask Tattoo Design

This “Hannya” samurai mask tattoo has red ink, which symbolizes evilness and showcases women who have completely given in to their dark side and have transformed themselves into demonic entities. It is also a female version of the Oni mask tattoo designs that are born from the most sadistic souls. It is a powerful samurai mask tattoo.

The “Hannya” tattoo has deep symbolism and rich history. It has the appearance of some demonic creature but actually has a very sorrowful underlying story that possesses various meanings. This can also be made into a samurai skull tattoo.

It is a symbol for those women who were extremely jealous and represents feminine agony and frustration. These hannya masks were very popular in Japanese performance art and ritual dances. In those plays, the women who were betrayed by their husbands showcased their internal rage through these masks.

It is even a symbol of good luck and warding off negative energies. Whoever owned these masks was protected from misfortune and was gifted with beneficial circumstances.

The word “Hannya” also means wisdom and it is said to protect these samurai tattoo owners from a traumatic past that haunts them and helps them to overcome difficult times in life.

Ronin Tattoo Design

You might be familiar with this samurai tattoo if you’re an MCU fan. Hawkeye had this tattoo on his arm that constantly reminded him of his time, as seen in ‘Avengers: Endgame.’

A ‘ronin’ is a samurai who didn’t have a master in the feudal period and wandered from place to place like a fierce lone wolf. It is a symbol of independence, loyalty, and prestige. It is composed of the ‘Kanji’, which literally means “wandering person”. It is a very famous samurai tattoo design.

Kanji Lettering Tattoo Design

The term Kanji basically means “Han Characters” Which was used significantly in the 5th century AD and played an important role in Japanese culture, literature, and history and is one of the favorite samurai tattoo designs.

Kanji letterings are symbols used in the Japanese writing system and have become the latest trend n tattooing names because of their unique design. The Kanji of three types – Sosho, Gyosho, and Kaisho. These symbols are frequently used to make any fan-favorite samurai tattoo.

This kind of samurai tattoo with messages written in kanji lettering and the detailing of the warrior makes it even more spectacular and a viable samurai sleeve tattoo design.

Samurai Face Tattoo Design

The samurai tattoo is of a samurai whose face is covered with a mask. The USP of this tattoo design is the eyes that can be seen peeking out the opening in its helmet. The dark eyes of the samurai express the agony of the warrior dressed in its armor and show the difficulties faced by them during the war.

The samurai tattoo would look best on your biceps and will definitely attract people’s attention to it. The dark color and the grey shadings of this samurai tattoo design give a very intense and livelier look. These types of samurai tattoo ideas are bold and yet give off a very cool vibe.

Samurai Tattoos With Tiger Design

The tiger is a symbol of strength, protection, and ferociousness. These majestic creatures have the perfect balance of power and grace. According to the Chinese, the tiger represents dignity, courage, energy, royalty, and ferocity. Along with these positive qualities, a tiger tattoo coupled with a samurai tattoo can also represent danger, punishment, and vengeance, which reflects the inner darkness within a person.

The attributes and symbolism of a tiger are very similar to the samurai. The samurai tattoo designs also represent strength and courage, along with honor and nobility. It teaches you to face difficulties with boldness and live with a sense of dignity and self-discipline.

Coupling a tiger tat with that, a samurai tattoo enhances its warrior spirit and expresses your inner beliefs through the concept.

Some further suggestions are given here.

• A samurai tattoo with the face of a white tiger on the bicep.
• A Japanese tiger samurai tattoo for the leg, torso, and full sleeve inking.
• A samurai skull tattoo with the face of a white tiger.
• A Japanese tiger tattoo suitable for the leg, torso, and full sleeve inking.
• Japanese kanji tattoo with ninja swords tattoo.

Feature Image from Pinterest

What is a samurai sleeve tattoo?

A samurai sleeve tattoo is a full-arm tattoo that honors the Japanese warrior culture and history. It typically covers the entire arm from shoulder to wrist and includes depictions of legendary samurai warriors, weapons, and other elements of traditional Japanese culture such as koi fish, dragons, flowers, and temple buildings. The design can be either realistic or abstract, with bold lines and bright colors. Samurai sleeve tattoos are often used to demonstrate strength, courage, loyalty, and honor. They can also serve as a reminder of where one has come from or what they have endured in life. These tattoos can be incredibly meaningful and serve as a source of pride for many people.

How much does a samurai sleeve tattoo cost?

The cost of a samurai sleeve tattoo will vary depending on the complexity and size of the design. Typically, full-arm tattoos require several hours of work, so the price could range from $500 to over $2,000. Factors such as the artist’s experience level and location can also influence the cost. It is best to consult with a tattoo artist to get an estimate for the specific design you have in mind.

What are some common designs for samurai sleeve tattoos?

Common designs for samurai sleeve tattoos include cherry blossoms, koi fish, dragons, Japanese letters and symbols, swords, armor, and traditional Japanese temples. Samurai warriors and other characters from Japanese legends are also popular choices. Many people choose to combine different elements of these designs into one large tattoo. Other elements such as waves, mountains, and animals can also be incorporated into the tattoo to create a unique design.

Jamie Wilson

Jamie Wilson (BA) is a professional tattooist, blogger and passionate photographer! After graduating with a BTEC Level 4 in tattoo design he has gone on to work for both private clients in tattoo parlours across the UK, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. He is also the editor in chief at Outsons. The brains behind the brand: a veteran of the industry working for some of the biggest fashion and grooming brands in the UK. Jamie has been writing for Outsons tattoo section since the beginning of 2017, providing informed and passionate content about the fascinating world of inked body art. If you would like to know more about Jamie or further details on our editorial policy then just click the links in the footer.

Top 30 Samurai Tattoo Design Ideas (2023 Updated)

Photo Disclaimer – Images used in this article are owned by the respective individuals, artists, or other parties who post on their private social media accounts. These images only serve for inspiration and cannot be copied (images or the designs) for personal use.

Last Updated on: January 9, 2023 by Saved Tattoo

Are you a fighter, or someone who loves to support fighting scenes, justice, as well as Japanese culture? If any of these statements apply to you, you will enjoy our article since we will talk about someone in particular – Samurai origin, as well as gorgeous Samurai tattoo options.

Girls who love to look bold and guys who loved watching Samurai Jack while growing up will enjoy our list and top 30 tattoo recommendations that are listed down below!

10 Large Samurai Tattoo Design Ideas

1. Samurai Mask Tattoo Over Shoulder

Those who enjoy sleeves and larger tattoos will naturally gravitate toward this one. It is a time-consuming piece, yet a beautiful solution for those who love to stand out.

This warrior with a skull will symbolize your inner skill to achieve all you want and fulfill your deepest darkest wishes.

2. Samurai Tattoo Design Detailed Scary Tattoo

If you’re a fan of mystical and unusual designs this one will suit you. Guys who love unique lines and precise tattoos that are fierce and powerful will want this sleeve with this effect.

This samurai stands for your attention-seeking side and your wish to achieve bliss and perfectionism at any given point.

3. Japanese Samurai Tattoo Pop Of Color

If you’re someone who enjoys a pop of color with their tattoos and you love to combine color with your black ink, consider going for a pop of blue. This tattoo is one of a kind, which means that you will need a skilled tattoo artist to achieve this print.

Blue is a color of elegance and purity. If your heart and your soul are as pure and you know that you’re powerful and fully confident with your abilities or skills, show it with this samurai concept.

Did you know that Samurai followed a code bushido – a way of the warrior?

4. Samurai Warrior Tattoo Over Back

Back tattoos are usually worn by guys who have masculine and dramatic backs. If you work out and you enjoy your gym experience, you will need this giant samurai design placed over your back.

A samurai helmet stands for your power and your will to protect yourself from bad influences and from bad people. If you know how to win an argument and you’re naturally an assertive person this concept may interest you.

5. Samurai Sleeve Tattoo

Stick to arm tattoos and enjoy this black and white concept. If you have a passion for demon-inspire designs and you enjoy monochrome ideas this one will suit you.

Show that you know how to protect yourself and that you value your dignity. Honor is everything to you, right?

6. Oni Samurai Tattoo Black Idea

If you’re not afraid of the needle and you enjoy scary and big tattoos this concept will suit you. Heads up since it is a time-consuming print to go for. Make sure that you have 5-7 hours to spare before you begin the tattooing process.

Show your graciousness and your proud attitude with this noble design. It is quite basic and like the most normal samurai tattoo that you’d expect, but it is perfect for fans of simplicity but in a bigger format.

Fun fact: only high-class samurai was allowed to ride a horse.

7. Samurai Tattoo With A Tiger Print

Black and white ink doesn’t have to be plain or too simple. In fact, you can rock a gorgeous animal-inspired tattoo along with your samurai symbol. This one will take you 4-6 hours to place over your body.

A tiger will suit you if you’re an animal lover. Show that you know how to value your personal thoughts, inner beliefs, and your spiritual journey with a samurai and tiger concept.

8. Samurai Helmet Tattoo Over Back

If you’re a fan of giant back tattoos this one will suit you. Men that love to hit the gym frequently will also like this concept. It is masculine and flawless in its own way.

Show that you know how to overcome any challenges or obstacles since there’s a true warrior within you.

9. Samurai Tattoo Scary Design

Not all samurai prints are small, delicate, or happy-looking. In fact, you can also go for a fierce and horrific samurai, if you’re a fan of scarier or horror-like tattoos.

This one shows the world who’s the boss and that you love to assert dominance and attention everywhere you go.

Did you know that they used swords at first, and katanas later on?

10. Sleeve Samurai Tattoo Black Idea

Anime fans or people who enjoy cartoons will enjoy this one tattoo that has a lot of silly and funny elements. Let the world see that you’re a creative person and someone who loves to look funky.

You will come off as a dominant yet silly individual who is often right and knows how to get what you want in your charming way.

10 Colorful Samurai Tattoos

1. Retro Samurai Tattoo

Are you an artist yourself? How about someone who enjoys colorful ideas and funky art? This tattoo is retro and perfect for those who have a way of embracing cheerful ideas.

This orange design and a cat symbol will let the world see you as a trendsetter, as well as someone who knows how to have fun in your way and on your own terms.

2. Funny Frog Samurai Tattoo

If you enjoy back tattoos this colorful one will suit you. It is funky and funny while being perfect for those who know how to have fun. People of any age can rock this design, as long as if they have a sense of humor.

A red frog dressed as a samurai means that you’re a cheerful person to be around and that you know how to overcome any battles or tough moments but in your own way.

3. Samurai Head Tattoo Design

This arm or shoulder tattoo is ideal for fans of smaller tattoos and minimalism. If you dislike the feeling of a needle pressed against your skin you will enjoy this mini concept.

Samurai and swords are common go-to tattoo ideas. Show that you’re aware of the cultural appreciation and stories that are behind it before you end up getting this design.

Fun fact: clothing items played a huge role throughout history, also known as hakama.

4. Colorful Samurai Tattoo Cat Idea

If you’re a cat lover or an animal lover in general you will want this funky tattoo. It is super colorful and playful in its own way.

This design shows that you value the life around you. You are well aware of your surroundings and you’re always trying to be positive and happy.

5. Colorful Samurai Sleeve Tattoo

Half sleeve tattoos are for men who don’t want to look too overpowering with their chosen design. This idea is quite bright, bold, and colorful, and it might cost you a bit more than you’d expect, so heads up.

This samurai idea will show others that you’re fierce and stubborn, yet you know how to overcome small and big issues on your own while being a warrior in the heart.

6. Samurai Head Tattoo Sword Print

Black and red ink is a common choice for a lot of men and women. If you want to rightfully represent and show off your warrior design you will adore this combo.

You can show the world that you’re a fierce and powerful guy. No one can mess with you, since you know who you are and where your power lays.

Did you know that they had to shave their head just to make their helmet fit more comfortably?!

7. Dramatic and Scary Samurai Sleeve Tattoo

Shoulder tattoos are for guys who are always rocking sleeveless shirts. If you’re someone who is dominant and bold, as well as naturally buff + you workout you will want this samurai print.

Red is a color of power and energy, as well as balance. You will come off looking like a giant who knows how to overcome any big or small challenge.

8. Samurai Helmet Tattoo With Lion Print

If you’re an animal lover and you think of yourself as the king of the jungle you will appreciate this duo. A samurai and a lion will look so beautiful over your back.

This tattoo shows that you’re in tune with your surroundings and that you know how to stay positive no matter what. You will also look like an actual beast who is always hunting for your prey.

9. Samurai Tattoo With Flowers

Those who want something a bit different will enjoy this design with some colorful flowers. It is for men and women who enjoy sweet tattoos.

You can show that you’re a warrior and someone who has that soft and delicate side. Show that you’re in tune with your emotions yet that no one can mess with you.

Fun fact: their armor was made with lacquered plates of metal or leather.

10. Funny Samurai Cat Red Ink

This is another great tattoo for cat lovers and samurai lovers. This color combo is sweet and unusual, ideal for fans of ambitious and energetic tattoos.

Your cat dressed as a samurai will let your surrounding know that you’re a fighter with a heart. You are deeply connected with your closest ones and you love to gift for what is right.

10 Small Samurai Tattoo Design Ideas

1. Leg Samurai Tattoo Design

Knee or leg tattoos are usually quite common among guys. If you’re someone who loves to show off your legs you will enjoy this idea.

Black ink is the best choice for this simple art. Let everyone see you as a fighter who is good at balancing your private and business life and show that you’re a boss at every given moment.

2. Black and White Geisha Samurai Tattoo

If you live for realistic tattoos you will also enjoy this idea. It is black and simple yet done with such precision.

Show the world that you’re a realist and that you’re a person who is always winning in life, but only at your own pace.

Did you know that katanas are nowadays forbidden to own, even in Japan?!

3. Precise Samurai Tattoo Black Ink

You can also go for a foot or ankle tattoo. This idea is great for those who enjoy the precision and who are into defined lines.

Show that you can balance your life and your thoughts with your own approach. Everyone will see you as a persistent guy, does this sound like you?

4. Samurai Tattoo Over Back For Guys

Neck tattoos are not that popular. This is because their placement is quite tricky and painful. However, if you can withstand the pain and you’re not afraid of the tattooing process you can easily enjoy this concept.

This idea shows that you’re not afraid of anything or anyone. You can jump in the ring at any given moment and you can get what you want, no matter the cost.

5. Scary Oni Mask Samurai Tattoo

Chest tattoos are quite common as placement when it comes to samurai ideas. If you’re a masculine guy you will enjoy this as your next go-to.

This samurai holding a sword is unique since it has that demon vibe. Let the world see that you’re always ready for a good challenge since you’re a little demon yourself, aren’t you?

6. Forearm Samurai Mask Black Idea

If you’re a fan of anime and cartoons you will always want and need something similar. It is great for anyone who is personally connected with inner beliefs and emotions.

This idea is unique since it shows the beauty of growing up. Show that you’re always growing and that you can represent all of your emotions with this samurai ink.

Fun fact: samurais were educated and highly-literate.

7. Samurai Tattoo Design Over Forearm Minimalistic

This forearm tattoo is for those who want something medium-sized and cute. If you’re a fierce warrior and someone who knows how to act and walk with the dignity you will gravitate toward this design.

It shows your powerful and positive side. Make sure that your intentions come through with this design. If you’re a leader and a conquer you can go for this design.

8. Giant Thigh Samurai Tattoo Black Idea

Giant thigh tattoos are for those who love to stand out with their choice. If you’re not afraid of tattoos and you love the tattooing process this one will be bearable for you.

You will look like the main character of your story and your journey. Show that you’re stubborn and that you’re always ready to win, no matter the circumstances.

9. Colorful Samurai Helmet Tattoo Print

Go for a red samurai since it is a symbol of good deeds and powerful male energy. You will look like a fierce man who is always pushing his limits.

This design won’t take too much of your time to achieve. Once done the tattoo will show your will to find a way and to always overcome new challenges and scary situations.

Did you know that there were also female warriors?!

10. Funny Samurai Mojo Tattoo

Last, but not least, you can get a funny samurai tattooed over your skin. This is the perfect piece for those who have watched Cartoon Network while growing up, and those who loved the evil character – Mojo Jojo.

Mojo Jojo is looking so stunning, wouldn’t you agree? This idea is for fighters and people who will love cartoons throughout their lifetime. Show that you’re a samurai yet a little kid still at heart.

Samurai Tattoo: More FAQs

1. Who Can Get A Samurai Tattoo?

Samurai tattoos are for anyone who is trying to express their bold side and their way to conquer the world. Men and women can both rock samurai designs, as long as they are natural fighters who know how to get whatever it is that they want.

2. Where To Place Your Samurai Tattoo?

The best placement for your samurai idea is over your chest or your leg. Samurais wear their bruises and their scars proudly, which is why you will enjoy showing off your teeth, literally, to the rest of the world with either chest or leg/knee placement.

3. Does The Tattooing Process Hurt?

These ideas don’t have to hurt too much. If you end up placing the design over the thicker parts of the body (and avoid placements that are close to the bone) you will easily wear any samurai design that we’ve reviewed in this article. If you’re thick-skinned you can easily wear and rock your new samurai tattoo idea.

4. Are These Tattoos Pricey?

You can expect to pay around $200-500 for your new samurai tattoo. The bigger the design, the pricier it is. Also, expect to pay more money for a colorful and bright tattoo that stands out and that is different from the rest.

Back tattoos, for instance, can and will cost a lot more money due to the bigger surface that is used in the tattooing process. Smaller samurai tattoos, such as ankle or foot designs will be a lot more affordable.

5. Where To Find Your Inspiration?

If you’re not too sure what are some other famous samurais or where to get the inspiration from, consider thinking about Samurai Jack (from the Cartoon Network), Jackie Chan (the ultimate warrior that we all loved watching when growing up), as well as any historic characters that you could have watched when growing up or have read about in your historic books.

Commit To Your New Tattoo

In the end, make sure that you let us know which one tattoo is your favorite and a must-have from the list. We have tried to incorporate as many as possible unique and different ideas for everyone’s liking. Our article will suit everyone’s preference and taste, so make sure to let us know which is a must-have tattoo in your opinion, as well as where you plan on placing it over your body.

• 30+ Best Oni Mask Tattoo: Check These Stunning Design Ideas (2023 Updated)
• Best Realistic Tattoo Artists On Instagram
• 20 Best Cartoon Tattoo Artists (2023 Updated)