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Thursday, August 14, 2008

Hot Japense Dragon Tattoo Ideas And History

By Sara Smith


Japanese tattoos are a great choice for a tattoo design. They are one of the most magnificent of all of the mythical beats. The power and elegance of these beautiful mythical beasts warrant the great attention that is paid to them in the world of tattoos. The Japanese have a long tradition of tattooing and that combined with the dragon as a design is one of the best tattoos available. If you are thinking about getting such a tattoo then it can be helpful to learn about some of the symbolism, history and gather ideas about the design before you get your tattoo.

Great Ideas For Dragon Tattoo Designs

There are really an endless number of possibilities when considering getting a dragon tattoo design. The size, style and location of the dragon can greatly change and enhance the symbolism behind the design. For example a dragon with fiery red eyes wrapped around a large sword might represent strength and power. Yet on the opposite end of the spectrum one depicted flying high in the clouds above a lake or the mountains might be a symbol for peace and freedom. What your dragon will symbolize is really dependent on the design and style you choose to give the dragon.

Dragon History In Japan

Dragons are a fundamental mythical animal or beast tot he Japanese people. In the Japanese language dragons are referred to as "Ryu" or often "Tatsu". They of course are large yet slender serpent looking creatures. Often they live around large bodies of water such as the ocean of a big lake. They are well respected as a creature that has tremendous power and therefore the Japanese believe that the very first emperor of Japan had descended from a dragon and therefore is partially god himself.

Throughout Asian the dragon is a very significant animal that is part and parcel f the culture. In Japan like many other countries that Dragon is a sacred animal that has always inhabited the earth. There are numerous stories, myths, and legends as well as extensive art and design work.

One can see the improtant role that dragons play in Japanese culture through their extensive sculptures. It is common to see statues of dragons at an alter, temple and other places of worship. For example at the Sonsoji Temple in Asakusa Japan the dragon statue is one of the most predominate features. An even more famous spot is at Miyajima also know as The Isles Of The Temple. This temple is a famous spot for travelers, tourist and religious. They all come here to pray to the dragon and ask for good fortune and good luck in the up and coming year.

At the Sensoji Temple in Asakusa Japan every spring is a very special time of year. It is rumored that way back in 628 AD two brothers were fishing along the Sumida river. During their fishing trip they discovered a beautiful statue of Kanon the Goddess of Mercy. At the time they made this discovery a gold dragon flew out of the Sumida river and up into the sky as a way to mark such an important event and such a big finding. Thus every spring the dragon in taken out oft he Sesoji temple and then paraded around the temple grounds.

Followers of both the Taoist and Buddhist religions believe that the dragon can also represent some of the hardships that one must face in their journey towards spiritual enlightenment.

Not only can the dragon be found in the sculptural and architectural works done by the Japanese but it can also be found in the literary works. For example there is the famous story os an eight headed serpent like that eats young women whole. Susanoo (the hero) is able to trick the serpent. He offers the serpent some sake to drink and then proceeds to get the serpent drunk. He then slays the evil eight headed beast, Yamata-No-Orochi.

It is pretty easy to see that dragons are prevalent throughout Japanese culture. You can see statues, architecture and temples all dedicated to the dragon. Tattoo designs are no different and there are thousands of wonderful looking dragon tattoo designs. In terms of location one of the most common places is to get a dragon tattoo on your back. The back makes a great place for a very large tattoo with a lot detail. However if you are not ready or willing to get such a large and detailed tattoo then there are also options for you. Many people today get dragon designs on their shoulder, calf area and a sleeve tattoo design.

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