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Negative or Positive values based on judgment of people in each era.

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Published by nijjareechitwong, 2023-10-22 23:24:56

Japanese Tattoo

Negative or Positive values based on judgment of people in each era.

Keywords: Japanese Tattoo

にほン の タ ト ゥ -แททท ู 2023 tattoo in japan society


Tattoo in japan society Tattoo is an art that has ties to the way of life in Japan since prehistoric times. It is considered as evidence of belief, attitude, values and way of life belonging to the Japanese. Meanings of tattoo vary according to the different periods. in Jomon and Yayoi Period, tattoo was not only a symbol of protection from dangers in nature, but also a sym-bol of ethnic identity, social status, rite of passage and belief in the incarnation. In Nara and Heian Period, tattoo became one of the legal penalties. Later in Sengoku Period, tattoo became popular among warriors since tattoo was a symbol of god’s rebirth. They thought that god could save them from enemy. Moreover, tattoo became a symbol of homosexuality among the warriors as well. In Edo Period, tattoo was symbolized as a commitment to love and a symbol of punishment. Besides, a tattoo was considered as a symbol of beau-ty among men as well. Later in the Meiji Period, the Government abolished tattoo penalty. According to that face that tattoo was a sign of barbarism. As a result, tattoos became a taboo in society. In that Era, a new social group called “Yakuza” also used tattoos to show power and demonstration of group loyalty. The study found that the development of tattoo provides positive or negative values based on judgement of people in each era. Tattoo is also a cultural heritage of Japanese society from the past to present.


Reiwa Jomon Nara Edo Meiji


時代 J 縄文 omon 秋田 土偶 岩手 土偶 東京 土偶


In the historical records of China, specifically in the texts “Gishiwajinden” and “Gokanjotouiden” both written during the late Qin Dynasty, it is mentioned that in the eastern islands of China, people practiced tattooing as a form of social and cultural expression. The passages you provided describe, Men regardless of age all have tattoos on their faces and bodies.The tattoos appear on either the left or the right sideand they vary in size according to social Local fishing folk believe that tattoos are done for protection against predators like shark. This practice may have been handed down from Jomon times.Some of the tattoos such as the double lines from eye across cheek appear to have been fairly stable features, lasting from around 3,300 BC through the final phase of the Jomon period in the Kanto region. They may have been rites of passage or cultural traits intended to have been cultural/tribe identifiers. Tattoos hold significance and are widely accepted in society. The patterns, placement, and size of tattoos indicate varying social statuses. Additionally, tattoos serve as symbols to indicate one’s ethnicity. In ancient times, people would tattoo their faces to signify their own ethnicity since it was the most visible part of the body. The facial tattoo patterns would differ according to ethnicity and region. A significant piece of evidence demonstrating facial tattoos is the fired clay figurine known as the “Dogu” figurine. It has been noted that the patterns and placement of tattoos on the face and body of these fired clay figurines vary depending on the region. Whether it’s the line patterns around the eyes, nose, mouth, and cheeks, each figurine excavated from different areas displays distinct tattoo designs. In the year 1988, pottery vessels with facial depictions featuring tattoos were excavated from the historical site of Kamegaoka in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan. The discovery of these vessels with facial tattoos provides a glimpse into the ancient practice of tattooing, showcasing a longstanding cultural tradition in the world.


aInu


The indigenous people of northern Japan call themselves Ainu, meaning “people” or “humans” in their language. Recent DNA evidence suggests that the Ainu are the direct descendants of the ancient Jomon people who inhabited Japan as early as 12,000 years ago. Astonishingly, the Jomon culture existed in Japan for some 10,000 years, and today many artistic traditions of the Ainu seem to have evolved from the ancestral Jomon. As such, this artistic continuum represents one of the oldest ongoing cultural traditions in the world spanning at least ten millennia. Jomon culture, like that of the Ainu, was based on a hunting-and-gathering economy. Exploiting natural resources from riverine, terrestrial, and marine ecosystems, the Jomon achieved stasis through active and continual engagement with their surrounding environments. Archaeological evidence in the form of ceramic sculpture supports this view, but it also suggests that particular animals (bears, whales, owls) were highly revered and possibly worshipped as deities. Among the Ainu, all natural phenomena (including flora, fauna, and even inanimate objects) are believed to have a spiritual essence, and particular animals (e.g., brown bears, killer whales, horned owls) continue to be honored in ceremony and ritual as “spirit deities” called kamuy. Ainu women retained a tradition of facial tattooing lending support to the argument that the ancient Jomon employed the custom in the distant past. For the Ainu, tattooing was exclusive to females, as was the profession of tattooist. According to mythological accounts, tattoo was brought to earth by the “ancestral mother” of the Ainu Okikurumi Turesh Machi who was the younger sister of the creator god Okikurumi. Tattooing represented an ancestral custom derived from one common female ancestress, it was continued down through the centuries in the matrilineal line. Viewing tattoo practices through the lens of kinship, it is not surprising that the position of tattoo artist was customarily performed by grandmothers or maternal aunts who were called “Tattoo Aunts” or simply “Tattoo Women”. Why do they call Tattoo Aunt? The indigenous people of northern Japan call themselves Ainu, meaning “people” or “humans” in their language. Recent DNA evidence suggests that the Ainu are the direct descendants of the ancient Jomon people who inhabited Japan as early as 12,000 years ago. Astonishingly, the Jomon culture existed in Japan for some 10,000 years, and today many artistic traditions of the Ainu seem to have evolved from the ancestral Jomon. As such, this artistic continuum represents one of the oldest ongoing cultural traditions in the world spanning at least ten millennia.Jomon culture, like that of the Ainu, was based on a hunting-and-gathering economy. Exploiting natural resources from riverine, terrestrial, and marine ecosystems, the Jomon achieved stasis through active and continual engagement with their surrounding environments. Archaeological evidence in the form of ceramic sculpture supports this view, but it also suggests that particular animals (bears, whales, owls) were highly revered and possibly worshipped as deities. Among the Ainu, all natural phenomena (including flora, fauna, and even inanimate objects) are believed to have a spiritual essence, and particular animals (e.g., brown bears, killer whales, horned owls) continue to be honored in ceremony and ritual as “spirit deities” called kamuy. Ainu women retained a tradition of facial tattooing lending support to the argument that the ancient Jomon employed the custom in the distant past. For the Ainu, tattooing was exclusive to females, as was the profession of tattooist. According to mythological accounts, tattoo was brought to earth by the “ancestral mother” of the Ainu Okikurumi Turesh Machi who was the younger sister of the creator god Okikurumi. Tattooing represented an ancestral custom derived from one common female ancestress, it was continued down through the centuries in the matrilineal line. Viewing tattoo practices through the lens of kinship, it is not surprising that the position of tattoo artist was customarily performed by grandmothers or maternal aunts who were called “Tattoo Aunts” or simply “Tattoo Women”.


Ainu woman with tattooed mouths


At various times in history, Japanese authorities prohibited the use of tattoos by the Ainu in attempts to dislocate them from their traditional cultural practices and prepare them for the subsequent process of Japanization. As early as 1799, during the Edo Period, the Ezo Shogunate issued a ban on tattoos “Regarding the rumored tattoos, those already done cannot be helped, but those still unborn are prohibited from being tattooed”. In 1871, the Hokkaido Development Mission proclaimed, “those born after this day are strictly prohibited from being tattooed” because the custom “was too cruel.” And according to one Western observer, the Japanese attitude towards tattooing was necessarily disapproving since in their own cultural system, “tattooing was associated with crime and punishment whereas the practice itself was regarded as a form of body mutilation, which, in case of voluntary inflictment, was completely averse to the prevalent notions of confucian filial conduct.” Of course, the Ainu vehemently evaded these laws because tattoos were traditionally a prerequisite to marriage and to the afterlife. One report from the 1880s describes that the Ainu were very much grieved and tormented by the prohibition of tattooing “They say the gods will be angry, and that the women can’t marry unless they are tattooed. They are less apathetic on this than on any subject, and repeat frequently, It’s part of our religion. ”One Ainu woman stated in the 1970s “I was twenty-one years old before I had this little tattoo put on my lips. After it was done, my mother hid me from the Japanese police for five days. I wish we could have retained at least this one custom” Traditional Ainu tattooing instruments called makiri were knife-like in form, and sometimes the sheaths and handles of these tools were intricately carved with zoomorphic and apotropaic motifs. Before the advent of steel tipped makiri, razor sharp obsidian points were used that were wound with fiber allowing only the tip of the point to protrude so as to control the depth of the incisions. As the cutting intensified, the blood was wiped away with a cloth saturated in a hot ash wood or spindlewood antiseptic called nire. Soot taken with the fingers from the bottom of a kettle was rubbed into the incisions, and the tattooist would then sing a yukar or portion of an epic poem that said: “Even without it, she’s so beautiful. The tattoo around her lips, how brilliant it is. It can only be wondered at.” Afterward, the tattooist recited a kind of spell or magic formula as more pigment was laid into the skin “pas ci-yay, roski, roski, pas ren-ren“ meaning “soot enclosed remain, soot sink in, sink in”


AINU TATTOO


SYMBOLIC


okinawa


Ryukyu People have beliefs in WHAT? In ancient times, the Ryukyuan or Okinawan people had a cultural practice of hand tattooing known as “Hajichi,” which was a distinctive tradition. Both men and women from all social classes received hand tattoos. This included princesses, princes, husbands, wives, warriors, and others. The hand tattoos featured various designs, such as circles, geometric patterns, flowers like chrysanthemums, and natural elements like the sun and moon. Girls typically started getting tattoos on their middle fingers around the age of 7, and additional tattoos on the back of the hand, wrist, forearm, and waist were added when they reached 15-16 years old. The purpose of this practice was to signify the transition from girlhood to virtuous womanhood. After marriage, women would get tattooed again, both before and after giving birth, typically around the ages of 24-25,change in status from wife to mother. In modern day Ryukyu, there are many beliefs held about the reasons behind a woman’s decision to get Hajichi.Some mistakenly believe that it was purely for sexist reasons such as ‘marking’ a woman once they had gotten married.However, a woman’s decision to get Hajichi, such as the fear that if one did not get Hajichi, they fear of not going to heaven. Tattoos were not only symbols of ceremonial transitions for the Ryukyuan people they were also believed to ensure a future existence. They held the belief that departed ancestors would reunite with their descendants in the next life. Tattoos served as the sole evidence that allowed ancestors to recognize their own offspring. When children passed away prematurely, siblings would receive tattoos on their hands to serve as a guide for the departed child to find their ancestors before being laid to rest in an unembodied state.


Hajichi TATT


oo SYMBOLIC


N 奈良 ARA 時代 - 02 ナ 03犬 01


Later, during the flourishing period of Buddhism in the Tang Dynasty, the Japanese government amended the laws to align with the principles of Confucianism. This emphasized ethical conduct and interactions with others in society. As a result, punishment through tattooing was abolished, likely influenced by the teachings of Confucianism. The above-mentioned principles led to the abolition of severe physical punishments for criminal offenses. This new regarding penalties. In terms of governance and law, the prevailing legal system during this time was known as the Ritsuryo system. It was adapted from the legal system of the Tang Dynasty in China before being implemented in Japan. Tattooing was one of the measures used as a form of punishment for offenders. Before the enforcement of the Ritsuryo legal system, Japan followed the legal code of the Sui Dynasty, Tattooing on the forehead or around the arms in straight lines During the Nara period and Heian period in Japan, there was significant cultural exchange and trade, with the influence of Buddhism and culture from China being prominent. The imperial court actively supported and promoted Buddhism, leading to the construction of numerous temples and religious sites. Subsequently, Chinese culture played a significant role in Japan during the Heian period, especially in literature and cultural practices.


CRIME Japan actually has a very old tattoo culture, probably since the Jomon period. The gorgeous Japanese tattoos that we now know appeared in the middle of the Edo period. During that period, a lot of people came to big cities like Edo and Osaka. With population growth, the number of crimes naturally increased. People introduced Irezumi as a punishment as of its character that is not just easy to get rid of. From there on, it spread among prostitutes, construction workers, gamblers, and couriers as a fashion. They tattooed criminals on their forehead so that others could see they committed a crime. Also, each region had its own symbol, people could tell where those guys committed the crime. Moreover, it had a record keeping purpose the style of tattoo In this way, people could know in what area the convict did the crime.Japan really has had a very complicated relationship with tattoos over its history. Unlike in most western countries where tattoos are considered only a form of expression or drunkenly poor decisions, the Japanese society generally looks down upon the modern body art. This happens despite having some of the best artists and techniques in the world. The go-to-form of punishment for the non-violent crimes was a tattoo right in the center of the forehead. Called a “tattoo penalty” or “Irezumi Kei,” people received it for relatively minor crimes such as burglary and theft. People classified it as a type of corporal punishment, along with caning.Usually, expulsion from the area accompanied the tattoo penalty. It served as a deterrent because of the pain of getting your face tattooed. Moreover, it publicly displayed criminals for the rest of their lives. Although this practice sounds terrible, but that tattooing criminals replaced other barbaric. The person who commits a wrongdoing for the first time will be tattooed with a horizontal line, and additional curved lines will be added for the second offense. If they commit a third offense, they will be tattooed with another curved line until it forms the character ‘inu’ (犬) which means ‘dog’ when fully tattooed. After three offenses, they will be sentenced to death. The tattoos in each region have their own symbols that represent the wrongdoer, and there are also other symbols such as a skull or a circle. In addition to face tattoos, “there are also tattoos on the arms.”


PUnishment Why did the tattoo Become a Crime? Later on, tattoos became the symbol of fashion, showing love for someone, and toughness in the brain of Japanese people. They unconsciously kept this old custom about tattoos. In fact, a lot of public swimming pools and baths do not allow customers with tattoos. This is because other customers may believe that the person is a criminal or part of a Yakuza family. Another part of Japan gives tattoos on the arms of the criminals. A lot of them are simple lines around the arm. During the Edo Period, there were no prisons until the development of large cities like Osaka and Edo (Tokyo). This leads to an increase in crime, and before then, amputation of the ear or nose was the punishment.During 1745, tattooing replaced amputation as society became less blood-thirsty and gentler. This continued happening over the years with the face tattoos changing to the less embarrassing arm tattoos.In 1872, the newly-established Japanese government abolished the tattoo penalty once and for all. Oddly enough, right in the middle of everything, around the early 1800s, body-art became all the rage suddenly. This happened among the ordinary people of Japan. With the number of people who are sporting tattoos in the streets of Japan nowadays, we might see another come-back.


yakuza


ヤ ク ザ Irezumi has been connected to criminality and the stigma of criminals since its early history. The first time that it was associated with criminals was in 300 A.D. when tattoos were used to mark and identify arrested criminals. This was thr first time it was used for criminals and represents the turning point for irezumi. The association with criminality would continue throughout tattoo art’s history. Japan stopped branding criminals in the 1800s. people began trying to hide their criminal tattoos, known as bokkei, inside larger, more decorative designs. This practice led to the rise in popularity of tattoos. The Yakuza began in the 17th century when people caught for stealing and gambling were sent to prison, where they were marked with ink to identify them. These people began to form organized gangs, and this background in tattoo culture gives them a distinct association with irezumi. The Yakuza grew more powerful and play a large role in many aspects of Japanese life today. With this power, they were able to continue getting tattoos during the years of the ban. To them this was simply an act of rebellion, but they enabled tattoo art to survive. tattoo became a part of their initiation since it was such a painful ordeal. The association with the Yakuza has hindered the process of acceptance. The fact is that when a Westerner has a tattoo, it is interpreted differently than when a member of the Yakuza is has one. But the popularity of tattoos among the Yakuza has started to blending i the general public. Due to their association with the Yakuza and criminality, tattoos are seen as intimidating and are often hidden in order to keep the gang member anonymous. With this design, the tattoo covers the arms, chest, back, and upper legs to allow a traditional kimono to be worn without compromising the tattoo.


D Dr. Fugushi Masai is an expert in dermatology, a professor in r.tattoo the medical field, and is highly respected throughout Japan, especially among the Yakuza community. This is because Dr. Fugushi is a physician who wholeheartedly provides medical care to the Yakuza and charges only half the usual fee. Additionally, for minor illnesses or injuries, he provides treatment for free. If he notices any Yakuza member with half-finished or incomplete tattoos, this doctor will propose to complete them for a free.Of course, this proposal comes with an exchange. That is, in return for these services, the recipient becomes the owner of skin adorned with tattoos of the Yakuza gang. The name of this doctor has been passed down through word of mouth, and his reputation has spread far and wide. Many Yakuza members are deeply interested in this doctor’s offer. When Yakuza members who either do not have enough money for a tattoo they seek out this doctor and follow his proposal in exchange for receiving a completed tattoo.


Dr. Fugushi is currently studying the pathology and growth development of dermal fungi. During his research, he has come across the conjecture that the ink used for tattoos may potentially eradicate ten liters of microbes. Upon discovering that wounds from ten liters do not occur on freshly tattooed skin, Dr. Fugushi became determined to delve into the study of skin pigments in humans and the growth of dermal fungi in individuals with tattoos. He began studying the skin of both the living and the deceased, along with methods for caring and preserving the skin removed from human bodies. Since 1926, Dr. Fugushi has collected a significant number of tattoos, along with over three thousand photographs and accompanying information about the owners of these tattoos. Unfortunately, much of this collection was destroyed during World War II, and a portion was stolen However, there was still some good fortune, as Doctor Fugushi managed to stash away a portion of the tattooed skin plates in an air raid shelter. The remaining surviving works are currently housed and cared for at Nippon University, with a total of 105 pieces on display. However, access to the general public is restricted, and it is only open for educational purposes, be it in the realm of medical knowledge or in the historical context of Japanese tattoo art.


江戸 EDO 時代 鳶 飛脚


In this environment, tattoos evolved from simple characters and symbols into larger and more elaborate images. This in turn created a demand for professional tattoo artists, or horishi, with increasingly sophisticated skills. Tattoos were also closely linked to real and fictional underworld figures, including the so-called kyōkaku, sometimes translated as “chivalrous commoners” or “street knights.” Kyōkaku figured prominently in the popular culture of the Edo period as outlaw heroes who protected the weak and innocent from the powerful and corrupt. In popular illustrations, irezumi appear as one of the distinctive attributes of these romantic figures, and this heightened the tattoos’ appeal. In the first half of the nineteenth century, the ukiyo-e artist Utagawa Kuniyoshi portrayed some of the outlaw heroes of the classic Chinese novel Shui hu zhuan (Water Margin) with full-body tattoos. The series was a huge hit, and soon other artists, such as Utagawa Kunisada, capitalized on the fad with prints that portrayed popular kabuki actors displaying tattoos. By the 1860s, leading kabuki actors were appearing in kimono dyed with tattoo-like patterns as they starred in such plays as Kawatake Mokuami’s Aoto zōshi hana no nishiki-e about a band of honorable thieves. In the Edo period, tattoos reached the height of popularity. Tattoo designs and techniques saw continuous development. Tattoos also made steady inroads among men involved in specific trades, particularly hikyaku, or express couriers, and tobi, or steeplejacks. For ease of movement, these urban tradesmen often tied back or removed their outer garments, in some cases stripping down to a simple loincloth. For them, tattooing was an alternative means of concealing and adorning their bare skin. The tobi were agile climbers who worked in construction and played a key role in preparations for festivals and other public events, as well as in neighborhood policing and firefighting. In time, tattoos became so integral to the tobi’s image and identity that wealthy community leaders would defray the cost of providing the young tobi in their neighborhood with tattoos. This was partly a matter of civic pride. The daring, agile steeplejacks who demolished wooden structures to prevent fires from spreading were considered the embodiment of iki—a casual, dashing air associated with the urban culture of Edo (present-day Tokyo). Skilled, stylishly tattooed tobi were the pride of the neighborhood.possibly because dragons were traditionally believed to bring rain.


Irebokoro


In pre-modern Japan, high-ranking courtesans were referred to as “Yujo” by Oiran. The term “Oiran” is derived from the phrase “O-ira no toko no toko no ne-zashi,” which means “my elder sister.” This tradition began to flourish during the Edo period, which lasted from approximately 1603 to 1868. ”Yuukaku,” or the red-light district, is an area designated by the government for the practice of the licensed prostitution business. The first and most famous red-light district was Yoshiwara, established in 1618 in the city of Edo. Gaining a reputation as a high-class courtesan in Yoshiwara was not an easy feat. Those aspiring to become an Oiran had to under- go extensive training and education in various aspects from a young age. This journey typically started as a “Kamuro,” young girls around the age of 10 who served the Oiran. They would then progress to become “Furisode Shinzou,” young women around 15- 16 years old who received training to become Yujo. With these elements, Oiran transformed into high-class courtesans possessing a charm beyond mere beauty. Engaging the services of an Oiran was not a simple matter. Typically, Yujo would be seen behind a wooden lattice in the brothel district, known as “Harimise,” allowing patrons to catch a glimpse and select their desired companion. In general, Yujo were not permitted to refuse a customer. While the Yoshiwara district is renowned for its courtesan culture, on the other hand, it is also considered a starting point for Japanese culture during the Edo period, which has continued to influence the present day. This includes various forms of entertainment such as Kabuki theater, Ikebana, Haiku poetry, fashion trends, tea ceremonies, Ukiyo-e art, festivals, and Sumo wrestling. After the upheavals and conflicts of the Warring States period, Japan finally achieved lasting social stability under the Tokugawa shogunate. It was during this era, known as the Edo period (1603–1868), that tattooing experienced a major revival in Japan.The earliest references to body modification in this era relate to courtesans of the pleasure quarters and their favored clients, who are said to have pledged their eternal love by incising the lover’s name in their skin—or in some cases by severing a little finger.


Irezumi


Initially, the tattoos were made with the same tools that were used to create wood engravings, i.e. chisels and burins. The colour came from nara ink, also known as nara black, which was produced from soot collected from temple lamps. The ink is known to turn green-blue after being injected under the skin. A genuine Japanese tattoo should be performed by a tattoo master using a traditional tebori, a bamboo stick, to which a metal hari needle is attached with a silk thread. The colour is introduced, point by point, underneath the skin, which is pricked at an angle. Nara black is still used as ink. Also used are red, green, indigo, yellow and colours resulting from combining these. starts his work by drawing the contours by hand. The colours and shadows are then gradually. Edo period, when artists rebelled against the strict social hierarchy of the military dictatorship of the Tokugawa shogunate through art, making irezumi an aesthetic choice. Emerging around the same time as parodic woodblock prints motifs common in woodblock prints were integrated into the tattoo designs. They frequently included the icons of certain heroes in literature, as seen in figure It was during this period that irezumi developed into the advanced art form it is recognized to be today. What drove Japanese tattoos to develop further as an art was from woodblock printing and the release of the Chinese novel Suikoden, a tale of courage and bravery illustrated in lavish woodblock prints that depicted men in heroic scenes with their bodies Suikoden became an immediate success and the demand for similar tattoos as seen in the novel became popular at the time. Woodblock artists began tattooing using most of the same tools used for imprinting designs on wooden blocks such as gouges, chisels and most notable of all, a unique type of ink known as Nara ink, on human flesh. Nara ink or Nara black is known to turn blue-green under the skin. This bold and highly visual style s devoid of the ambiguity of, for instance, the pattern-based style of Alaska’s Indigenous Inupiat people.Instead, it typically features intricate pictorial tattoos that depict scenes of nature, war, mythology, and erotica taken from a genre of Japanese art called Ukiyo-e decorated with mythical beasts, flowers and dragons.


いれすみ タトゥ_


muniwari 01 02 03 04 05 06 Irezumi tattoos are done by dividing the body into different sections, such as the arms, legs, back, abdomen, and neck. They encompass various styles and designs based on Japanese imagery, including flowers, skulls, demons, legendary samurai figures, dragons, koi fish, and often incorporate elements from nature like birds or dragons, as they are creatures associated with the skies.


pattern


M 明治 eiji 時代 カップル 裁判所


The Meiji government banned both the giving and the receiving of decorative tattoos in 1872. The law did not end tattooing among those sectors of society where it was firmly entrenched. But in combination with emerging norms against public nudity, it did drive irezumi into hiding. By the beginning of the twentieth century, Japanese tattoos had retreated completely beneath layers of clothing. Ironically, this state of affairs may have helped strengthen the mystique of irezumi as something beautiful yet hidden from common eyes, and all the more spiritually charged for that reason. With the collapse of the shogunate and the Meiji Restoration of 1868, the new government set about building a modern state on a par with the industrial nations of the West. After over 200 years of semi-seclusion, Japan had finally opened its doors to the world, and foreign dignitaries, travelers, and seamen were visiting Japan in substantial numbers. Accounts by these travelers tended to highlight aspects of Japanese society that Westerners of the Victorian era found exotic or shocking, such as mixed-sex public bathing or the sight of men walking about town virtually naked with full tattoos. Fearful as a backward nation


Horishi


is related to tattoos? How World War II Japan’s legal prohibition against tattoos was completely lifted in 1948 under the US occupation that followed World War II. With US military bases springing up around Japan, Japanese tattooists began catering to American servicemen, particularly around the naval base at Yokosuka. Although the demand was overwhelmingly for Western designs, the Yokosuka tattooists did a thriving business, especially during the Korean and Vietnam wars. However, it was not until the 1970s that Japan’s horishi really began to emerge from the shadows with the appearance of books and exhibitions devoted to their art. It was during this period that Japanese designers Issey Miyake and Yamamoto Kansai came out with fashions inspired by traditional irezumi. In the 1980s, tattooing took hold among popular American and British rock bands, and their influence led to a surge of interest among Japanese youth. Eventually, as the popularity of tattooing spread, young Japanese people rediscovered the appeal of traditional Japanese irezumi.Members of the Kanto Federation of Bar Associations conducted a questionnaire survey of 1,000 men and women aged 20–60 random. This rate is still low by comparison with most Western nations, where it ranges between 10% and 25%. Still, it indicates a growing social acceptance of irezumi as a fashion statement in the country that elevated the art of the tattoo to a level that has never been surpassed. This included the exchange of art, ideas, and traditions. Some soldiers and travelers may have been exposed to new tattoo styles and designs from the regions they visited or were stationed in. In Japan, during the war, the government imposed restrictions on tattooing due to its association with the yakuza and criminal elements. However, some soldiers stationed in Japan may have been exposed to the traditional Japanese tattoo art form known as irezumi. After the war, tattoos became more popular and gradually began to lose some of their negative social stigma. Many soldiers returned home with tattoos, influencing the acceptance of tattoos in Western society. It’s important to note that while there are connections between World War II and tattoos, the war itself did not directly cause a widespread shift in tattoo culture. Instead, it played a role in the broader historical context of tattooing’s evolution.


リ プ た シ ン Despite the Meiji government’s intolerance toward irezumi, Japanese horishi were internationally renowned for their skill, and visitors to Meiji Japan were known to seek them out and get exotic tattoos as souvenirs of their visits. Prince George, later George V of England, and Nicholas Alexandrovich, later Nicholas II of Russia, are both said to have received irezumi during their sojourns in Japan. American and British newspapers piqued the public’s curiosity with accounts by sailors and travelers of their Japanese tattooing experiences. It was not long before Japanese tattoo artists responded to this interest by taking their business overseas. Since tattooing was illegal in Japan, the horishi were forced to set up shop as sign painters or lantern makers and do their tattooing in back rooms, away from the scrutiny of the police. In response, some ended up leaving Japan in search of greater professional freedom, emigrating to places like Hong Kong, Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand, India, Britain, and the United States. The activities of these emigré horishi have been brought to light in recent years by the work of Koyama Noboru, as well as my own research. Because tattoos were in particular demand among sailors and other seafaring men, Japanese tattooists often worked out of rented rooms near seaports. Some of them traveled quite extensively during the course of their careers. In 1899, a well-known tattoo artist by the name of Horitoyo Yoshisuke told a reporter for the New York Herald how he had journeyed to many of the world’s capitals and tattooed European royalty. On the whole, however, the emigré horishi must have found their work somewhat dull. While their skills were appreciated, the vast majority of customers were satisfied with the kind of small, simple tattoo that could be completed in a single session. There was little demand for expansive, elaborate irezumi requiring multiple sittings. Overall, the Meiji era had a significant impact on the practice and perception of tattooing in Japan. It led to a decline in traditional tattooing practices and contributed to the association of tattoos with criminal elements. However, it did not entirely extinguish the art form, and in contemporary times, there has been a renewed interest in preserving and revitalizing traditional Japanese tattooing.


R 令和 eiwa 時代 01 02 03


In the Reiwa era, the practice of Japanese tattooing, known as irezumi, continues to hold cultural significance. Here are some aspects of Japanese tattoos in the Reiwa era. Irezumi remains an important aspect of Japan’s cultural heritage. It draws from centuries-old artistic traditions and continues to be appreciated for its intricate designs and symbolism. In the Reiwa era, there’s a blend of traditional and modern elements in Japanese tattooing. Some artists may incorporate contemporary themes, techniques, and styles into their work, while still respecting the core principles of irezumi. While tattooing is not illegal in Japan, there has been historical stigma associated with it, particularly due to its association with the yakuza and criminal elements. In recent years, there have been efforts to change perceptions and promote tattoos as a legitimate form of artistic expression. Japanese tattooing has gained international recognition and popularity. Many non-Japanese tattoo artists incorporate traditional Japanese designs into their portfolios, and some travel to Japan to learn from master artists. In the Reiwa era, there has been a resurgence of interest in irezumi both within Japan and internationally. This resurgence is driven by a growing appreciation for traditional art forms and a desire for cultural preservation. With increased globalization and cultural exchange, Japanese tattooing has influenced and been influenced by other tattoo traditions from around the world. This has led to a diverse range of styles and interpretations. Some local governments in Japan have relaxed restrictions on tattooing, particularly in places known for their cultural significance or tourist appeal. This has allowed for the growth of tattoo studios and artists.


anime


NEW generation Anime is a significant cultural export for Japan. It has gained a global following and has become a powerful tool for spreading Japanese culture, language, and values around the world. This has contributed to soft power and international relations. The anime industry is a substantial part of Japan’s economy. It encompasses not only the production of shows but also merchandise, conventions, and related industries. This generates revenue and creates employment opportunities. Anime has spawned dedicated fan communities and subcultures both in Japan and internationally. This has led to the development of events, clubs, and conventions that bring fans together and create a sense of belonging. Anime has influenced various art forms, including manga, illustration, and even fashion. Some fashion trends, especially among younger generations, are influenced by anime characters styles. Anime and tattoos both have influences on Japanese society, both culture albeit in different ways. Irezumi, traditional Japanese tattooing, has a deep-rooted historical and cultural significance in Japan. It has been practiced for centuries and is associated with various themes from mythology, folklore, and spirituality. There are ongoing discussions and movements in Japan to challenge the negative perceptions of tattoos and promote them as a legitimate form of artistic expression. This is particularly notable in urban areas and among younger generations. Tattoos are considered to have a significant influence on various aspects of Japanese culture, including popular anime characters in many hit series. The meaning of tattoos in anime characters often conveys aspects of the character’s life, beliefs, and even aesthetics. It must be acknowledged that Japanese society still holds certain reservations towards tattoos in some aspects. However, these factors have contributed to tattoos gaining value and becoming more widespread in contemporary Japanese culture up to the present day.


ス タ ジ オ ジ ブ リ STuDIO GHIBLI The tattoo in the film “Princess Mononoke” serves as a powerful visual representation of the protagonist’s identity and her connection to the natural world. In “Princess Mononoke,” the titular character, San, also known as Princess Mononoke, bears a distinctive red facial tattoo. This tattoo is a mark of her adoption by the wolf goddess Moro and her pack, symbolizing her acceptance as one of them. The tattoo resembles the paint used by the inhabitants of Iron Town during their territorial conflicts, emphasizing San’s complex relationship with humans. The red color of the tattoo carries significant symbolism. It represents the themes of war, blood, and conflict, reflecting the film’s central conflict between the forces of industrialization and nature. San is a fierce and determined character, embodying strength and resilience, and her tattoo visually reinforces these qualities. Furthermore, the tattoo signifies San’s connection to the forest and its spirits. As an adoptive daughter of the wolf goddess,she is seen as a guardian of the natural world. This connection is central to the film’s environmental message, as San fights to protect her home from the destructive forces of industrial expansion.Overall, San’s tattoo in “Princess Mononoke” is a powerful symbol that encapsulates her identity, strength, and commitment to preserving the natural world. It serves as a visual motif that reinforces the film’s themes of conflict, environmentalism, and the complex relationship between humanity and nature. The Forest Spirit in “Princess Mononoke” is a central and enigmatic character in the film. Known as the “Shishigami” in Japanese, it is a deity that represents the balance between nature and the spirit world. The Forest Spirit is depicted as a giant, otherworldly creature with a serene and majestic presence. It has the ability to heal and give life, but also to bring destruction and death. Its appearance changes depending on whether it is day or night. The day, it takes the form deer-like creature with a crown of antlers. At night, it transforms into a more eerie translucent, and ethereal.


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why japanese tattoo relate with anime? Japanese tattoos and animation animeshare a cultural and artistic connection. Both Japanese tattoos and anime have their origins deeply rooted in Japanese culture, history, and artistic traditions. They draw on similar aesthetic principles, motifs, and themes. Many anime series and films incorporate traditional Japanese artistic elements, including imagery and symbolism commonly found in irezumi. This includes motifs like dragons, cherry blossoms, koi fish, and other elements inspired by nature and mythology. In anime, characters are often given distinctive appearances to convey their personalities, backgrounds, and experiences. Tattoos can be used as a visual storytelling device to reveal a character’s history, affiliations, or personal beliefs. Both anime and traditional Japanese tattoos can carry deep cultural and spiritual significance. They may be used to convey themes of honor, bravery, spirituality, and the relationship between humanity and nature. attoos in anime and real-life irezumi can serve as expressions of identity. Characters with tattoos may have a strong sense of self, a rebellious streak, or a connection to their cultural heritage, much like individuals who choose to get tattoos in real life. Anime has gained a global following, and with it, the appreciation for Japanese culture has spread worldwide. This includes an interest in traditional Japanese art forms like irezumi. Some anime artists and creators incorporate elements of irezumi into their character designs or settings. They may use tattoos to add depth and complexity to their fictional worlds or to pay homage to traditional Japanese art. Both the anime and tattoo subcultures can intersect, especially among enthusiasts who appreciate Japanese pop culture and traditional art forms. This can lead to a mutual appreciation for the artistry and cultural significance of tattoos. Overall, the relationship between Japanese tattoos and anime reflects the broader influence of traditional Japanese culture on contemporary art forms. This connection serves to enrich the visual storytelling and character development in anime while also preserving and celebrating the heritage of irezumi. Indeed, anime has had a profound influence on modern Japanese tattoo art. Many contemporary tattoo artists, both in Japan and around the world, draw inspiration from anime characters and themes. This fusion of anime and tattooing represents of modern Japanese art and pop culture.


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