Known as irezumi or horimono in its native tongue, the beautiful art of traditional Japanese tattooing has been alluring people for centuries. Almost as old as the culture itself, this art infuses an ancient mysticism into the body through the use of bold colors and scenes from nature. If you are wanting to get a tattoo, consider one of these works of art.

Step 1
Choose a Kanji character to represent a certain word or expression. Using Kanji, which is the name for the Chinese characters used in Japanese writing, has become an especially popular trend in tattooing within the last several years. It can be a beautiful tribute to a person or concept that is meaningful to you.

Step 2
Select a traditional animal from Japanese culture. Different animals have different symbolic meanings, such as those from the Chinese horoscope, which represent years of birth. You can go for a mythical dragon or something a little closer to reality, such as a koi or an ancient serpent. Choose an animal whose meaning represents your personality.

Step 3
Incorporate the natural beauty of Japanese flora in your tattoo with a delicate cherry blossom, lotus flower or other floral design. The Japanese revere the serene beauty of the world around; if natural beauty is something you hold a deep appreciation for as well, consider demonstrating that appreciation through your tattoo.

Step 4
Take a page from other traditional Japanese landscaping elements for your tattoo. Japanese artists have long been rendering their versions of ocean waves or the smoky Mt. Fuji; consider having a similar design in your tattoo.

Step 5
Use a temple scene or a rendering of the Buddha in your tattoo design if you want to pay homage to traditional Japanese spirituality. Or choose one of the ancient gods or goddesses.

Step 6
Display a fierce samurai warrior, a coy geisha or a simple fisherman as iconic representations of the Japanese way of life, both ancient and modern.

Step 7
Place your tattoo on your arms, shoulders or back in keeping with Japanese tradition.

Step 8
Opt for a bold statement if you really want a tattoo in the Japanese tradition. A typical Japanese tattoo often spans the length and width of the back. Although such a large piece of body art is not necessary to be considered traditional, one of the trademark characteristics of this genre is its unapologetic boldness.