The big and flexible dragon, from which descends from japanese tattoo traditions, is definately one of the most popular tattoo motives. Due to it’s shape it practically fits on every part of your body. Covering full backs, lower backs, winding itself around arms or coiling up on the chest of the carrier, maybe you?
In western culture, the japense dragon, according to the snake, symbolizes evil and has to be fought. The japanese dragon, which is called Oni and also stands as a symbol of luck and prosperity. This japanese dragon has its roots in the chinese mythology as well. The dragon is said to live in the sky and has the ability to bring out rain which is of very big importance for the rice cultivation in Japan.
The dragon reached japan as a live spending water symbol and due to the close cultural connection between china and japan the dragon is highly honored and admired. It is important to keep the dragon happy because he could easily cause a sea quake if begrudgingly comes his way. One of the most tattooed and most famous dragon legends, aside the display of the buddistic gods of wind and thunder (Fu-jin and Rai-jin) who are riding the dragons, is the Tamatori Hime.
Franchesca
