We all know that half sleeve tattoos are hot 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 getting bigger and bigger tattoos done on their body. With a broadening social norm and acceptance of tattoos in general it is not a surprise that so many people want to get sleeve designs.
Of the possibilities out there for sleeve tattoos there are the tribal, skulls, flowers and other such designs. However, one set of designs seems to be far above and beyond popular and those are Japanese sleeve tattoo designs be it half, full or even quarter designs. Not only do guys love these traditional Japanese designs but women are also starting to get designs themselves also.Why Are They So Great
Some might wonder what has made these designs so popular and what is so great about them anyway. Well first and foremost is the history behind them. The Japanese have been practicing the art of tattoo design for centuries and have probably developed the art form more then almost any other culture. However, for a long time the designs were done on the Yakuza or gang members. Since these were used to mark men in the gang they were often done as tests of courage and a demonstration of strength and power for these men. That of course leads to people wanting to get bigger and bigger designs and eventually very early in the Japanese history people were getting full body tattoo designs. Thus lead to a great deal of incredible beautiful full body and rather large scale tattoo designs and an incredible art form. As with many things the Japanese tattoo artists poured their hearts, souls and full body into the development and refinement of the art which has lead to some of the best designs ever. They have been widely adopted and have mass appeal to more western audiences because of their rich and deep symbolism and foreign feeling they portray.Themes For Guys
There are so many different designs out there that the Japanese have developed over time. Like many things these often fall into sets or categories of designs. Some of the most popular designs for men are list below.
Samurai - Of course Samurai were the warrior class in feudal Japan and seen as the ultimate fighter and also a great example of morality that every Japanese citizen should ascribe to. Here in the west we often identify with the raw power and strength of the Samurai.
Gods - Another very common design that is used in Japanese tattooing arts are the gods. These could be and often are angry gods and spirits. These are seen as good luck symbols as they will scare away the evil spirits.
Dragons - Of course we have our own sets of dragons and mythological beats here in the west but there is something mysterious, unique and very original about many of the Japanese dragon designs. Thus has lead to many here in the west wanting to get a Japanese dragon tattoo.
Geisha - Yes there was a connection between sexy and the women of the water world called Geisha. However they were not mere prostitutes. They were highly trained and skilled artisans and incredible entertainers. Many a men love the beauty, power and mystery that a geisha carries. It is the Japanese equivalent of the pinup girl tattoo.
This is a two part article for information on top designs for women check out part 2
If you are considering getting a Japanese tattoo design you have to check out this wonderful site full of tattoo designs and ideas. Don't get stuck with a badly formed or incorrect Japanese tattoo design that bastardizes the rich and deep tradition of Japanese tattoos. Find a competent and professional artist and only use the best and traditional designs for a great look tattoo. You have to check out this great site for more information and design possibilities Top Japanese Tattoo Designs. ( By Chris Ryerson )