79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (2024)

Table of Contents

Kanji tattoos are very common and popular among non-natives. These tattoos use the Japanese writing system using Chinese characters. Kanji is a Japanese form of writing along with hiragana and katakana. Kanji means Chinese or Han characters as they evolved from the Chinese writing system. It is the most popular Japanese writing system for non-Japanese speakers. Depending on the context and how it is spoken, a single kanji character might have numerous meanings.

Kanji Tattoo Meaning

As Japanese cannot be written only in kanji, someone cannot just put two kanji characters together to make a phase. Kanji cannot be simply substituted directly to English alphabets. That’s why these kinds of tattoos are quite tricky as they can create confusion for native speakers and also for non-native speakers. There are intended meanings of the kanji characters that the non-native people want to convey via their tattoo but as it is not always possible to simply put two kanji characters together and make their meaning. The result becomes something gibberish or difficult to understand for people who know Japanese.

How Much do Kanji Tattoos Cost?

The average cost of a small tattoo is around $50-$250 and a large tattoo is around $150-$450. Kanji tattoos vary from small to medium to large. So, the cost of getting the tattoo depends on the size of the design, the place you’re living, the location of the tattoo on your body, the complexity of the design, and also the experience of the artist. So, it can’t be said firmly how much the tattoo can cost.

Different Kanji Tattoo Designs Ideas

“Love,” “belief,” “strong,” “respect,” “patience,” and “live for today” are among the most popular kanji tattoos. There are many designer kanji tattoos for example like Cherry Blossoms and Kanji Tattoo, they are full of symbolism so one can use them as a form of self-expression. Cherry blossom, in Japanese culture, means life, rebirth, and rejuvenation. They are mostly done on the thigh or forearm.

If someone wants something to show their strength or want to stay positive in challenging circ*mstances, they can get Bamboo Kanji Tattoo as in Japanese culture, they are regarded as the symbol of strength. They are best to be done on the forearm. Kanji Stamp Tattoo is famous among travelers to mark their travel to Japan. They are best to do on the sidearm. Minimalist Kanji Tattoos are small, subtle yet straightforward, and tasteful. If someone wants to be discreet about getting a tattoo, this one is best to do behind one’s ear. There are many other forms of this tattoo like Dragon and Kanji, Kanji Characters, Kanji Wrist, Cryptic Kanji, Cursive Kanji tattoo, etc.

1. Kanji Tattoos on Rib

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (1)

2. Kanji Tattoos on Cest

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (2)

3. Kanji Tattoos on Back Cover Up

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (3)

4. Japanese Kanji Tattoos on Rib

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (4)

5. Black Ink Japanese Kanji Tattoos on Neck

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (5)

6. Dark Ink Kanji Tattoos on Leg

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (6)

7. Dark Ink Kanji Finger Tattoos

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (7)

8. Amazing Gray Art Tattoo on Half Sleeve

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (8)

9. Cool Kanji Tattoo on Finger

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (9)

10. Amazing Art Kanji on Forearm

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (10)

11. Amazing Japanese Tattoo on Head

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (11)

12. Simple Kanji Tattoo on Belly

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (12)

13. Kanji Tattoo Behind Ear

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (13)

14. Black Ink Tattoo on Arm

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (14)

15. Bad Kanji Tattoo on Neck

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (15)

16. Tattoo with Flower Design on Hand

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (16)

17. Black Ink Design Kanji Leg Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (17)

18. Simple Design Kanji Hand Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (18)

19. Protective Kanji Arm Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (19)

20. Incredible Kanji Cartoon Tattoo on Chest

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (20)

21. Beautiful Kanji Full Back Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (21)

22. Beautiful Color Ink Kanji Neck Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (22)

23. Super Stylish Kanji Rib Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (23)

24. Awesome Color Ink Kanji Hand Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (24)

25. Amazing-Simple Kanji Chest Tattoo for Women

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (25)

26. Single Word Kanji Leg Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (26)

27. Incredible Samurai Tattoo on Back

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (27)

28. Tattoo with Red Flower on Arm

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (28)

29. Black Red ink Japanese Tattoo on Leg

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (29)

30. Beautiful Japanese Tattoo in the Circle on Back

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (30)

31. Japanese Quote Tattoo on Hand

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (31)

32. Kanji Quote Chest Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (32)

33. Tattoo with Baby Face on Wrist Hand

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (33)

34. Beautiful Kanji Tattoo Behind the Ear Women

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (34)

35. Dark Ink Tattoo on Chest

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (35)

36. Meaningful Kanji Thigh Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (36)

37. Kanji Black Ink Tattoo on Full Sleeve

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (37)

38. Floral Kanji Letter Tattoo on Forearm

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (38)

39. Super Ink Tattoo With Lase on Chest

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (39)

40. Fine Ink Tattoo Covering Rib to Belly

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (40)

41. Fine line Ink Kanji Wrist Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (41)

42. Red Ink Kanji Tattoo Behind the Ear

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (42)

43. Blue Ink Kanji Turtle Tattoo on Arm

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (43)

44. Amazing Gray & Red Colored Kanji Flower Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (44)

45. Cutest Kanji Thigh Tattoo Girl

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (45)

46. Cutest Black Ink Kanji Small Tattoo on Chest

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (46)

47. Color Ink Tattoo on Half Arm

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (47)

48. Glorious Color Ink Tattoo Covering Chest to Arm

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (48)

49. Gray Ink Tattoo Covering Full Hand

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (49)

50. Beautiful Color Flower Kanji on Half Hand

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (50)

51. Pink & Black Ink Tattoo on Leg

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (51)

52. Red & Black Ink Kanji Lower Leg Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (52)

53. Insane color Ink Tattoo on Forearm

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (53)

54. Black Ink Kanji Friendship Tattoo on Wrist Hand

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (54)

55. Black Line Kanji & Lion Tattoo on Full Back

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (55)

56. Eye-Catching Black Ink Tattoo With Birds Design on Back

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (56)

57. Tattoo With Love & Snake design on Hand

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (57)

58. Black Ink Tattoo on Half Sleeve

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (58)

59. Color Ink Kanji Red Flower Tattoo on Sleeve

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (59)

60. Black & Simple Ink Tattoo Lower Chest

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (60)

61. Black Ink Simple Tattoo on Back

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (61)

62. Black and Red Ink Tattoo on Half Leg

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (62)

63. Black and Red Ink Tattoo on Half Arm

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (63)

64. Flower String Half Arm Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (64)

65. Chrome Letters Head Black Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (65)

66. Japanese Black Rib Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (66)

67. Simple Black Neck Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (67)

68. Red Inked Neck Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (68)

69. Black Inked Men Neck Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (69)

70. Black Inked Men Chest Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (70)

71. Disney Mulan Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (71)

72. Black Circled Hand Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (72)

74. Red Flowered Black Arm Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (73)

75. Black-Inked Neck Girl Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (74)

76. Authentic Lettering Hand Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (75)

77. Oriental Kanji Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (76)

78. Fine Line Simple Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (77)

79. Dark Black Lettered Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (78)

80. Anime Print Leg Tattoo

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (79)

Even though kanji tattoos are very popular, it is very easy to get confused over the meaning behind the characters. Some people get these tattoos permanently linked to their body, only to find later what they mean. They are left with embarrassment and regret. So, it is very important to go to an experienced tattoo artist who knows good Japanese and knows the real meaning of the kanji characters.

FAQ:

01. Are Kanji Tattoos Tacky?

The most common question before getting a kanji tattoo is if they are tacky as they are a very popular form of tattoo to get, so someone can think if they have become trite. But no, it is not. They are cool. If someone wants something minimal or fashionable on their body, kanji is the best option, but it is important to know the full and hidden meaning of the tattoo before getting it.

02. Are Kanji Tattoos Offensive?

Another common question is if these tattoos are offensive to natives. The answer is both yes and no. Japan has a strong stigma against tattoos. Until 1948, they were prohibited. While it’s legal now to have tattoos in Japan, there are some very harsh rules for tattoo artists and some public places where tattoos are still banned. While these tattoos aren’t offensive to natives, the incorrect meaning of the tattoo may be annoying to them.

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (80)

Mark Ray

I love to do tattoos. And work as a freelance writer part-time.

79 Best Kanji Tattoos with Meaning - Tattoo Twist (2024)

FAQs

What does a kanji tattoo mean? ›

A: A kanji tattoo is a tattoo design that incorporates one or more characters from the Japanese writing system called kanji. Kanji is a set of logographic characters that are used in written Japanese, and each character represents a particular concept, idea, or word.

What is the kanji for strength tattoo? ›

The Japanese symbol for strength or power; 力 (chikara) is one of the most popular kanji tattoos to get. It's also a very easy character to tackle when you are first starting out with calligraphy. In both handwriting and calligraphy, the lines are a lot rounder than they are in the typical computer font.

What is the most popular Japanese tattoo? ›

In traditional tattoo art, the dragon is not a symbol of fire or power, but rather of generosity and wisdom. All these connotations have made the dragon the most widespread, most popular symbol in the irezumi.

What is the kanji symbol for strongest? ›

The Japanese kanji for “Strength” or “power” is . The pronunciation of the Kanji 力 is “chikara” (ちから) in its kun'yomi (Japanese reading) and “riki” (リキ) or “ryoku” (リョク) in its on'yomi (Chinese reading). The shape of this kanji is rather simple, and its shape has a clear origin.

What is the most beautiful kanji? ›

愛 (ai) is a Japanese kanji character that translates to 'love' in English. It is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful kanji due to its elegant and graceful strokes. The character holds deep cultural significance in Japan and is associated with love, affection, and compassion.

What is the kanji of love? ›

Writing love in Japanese is represented as the kanji symbol which means love and affection. It takes 13 strokes to create the kanji for love.

What is the kanji symbol sin? ›

means 'sin'

What is the kanji symbol for protection? ›

means 'protect'

Kanji are classified as Jōyō (常用, common use), Jinmeiyō (人名用, used in names), or Hyōgaiji (表外字, 'outside the chart').

What is the kanji symbol for God? ›

In Japanese, the word that we associate with "god" is written , and, like all kanjis, this charcter has a Japanese reading but also a Latin-Japanese reading.

What tattoo represents strong? ›

One of the timeless symbols is the lion, often regarded as a representation of bravery and power. Incorporating a lion in your tattoo design not only taps into its fierce nature but also makes a bold statement about your own inner strength.

What is the kanji symbol for courage? ›

- Courage in Japanese Kanji Art Print by Everyday Inspiration.

What is the Japanese tattoo for protection? ›

They are a symbol of protection against misfortune and illness and also a symbol of wisdom , good luck , strength and change .

What are Japanese tattoo rules? ›

Rule One: Your tattoo should be large, covering a broad area or entire body part. It should. also be bright, richly detailed, with clean, pure colours. Rule Two: Your traditional Japanese tattoo should include themes and symbols representing. Japanese culture.

What are good Japanese tattoos? ›

One of the most popular symbols for Japanese tattoos is the koi fish. This symbol is considered to bring good luck and fortune and can be seen throughout many cultures around the world. In Japan, it is believed that if a koi swims upstream against the current of a river and up a waterfall then it will become a dragon.

Which is the most famous tattoo? ›

Mike Tyson. The 'tribal' tattoo on the left side of the boxer's face represents his warrior status and is certainly one of the most daring celebrity tattoos.

What is the most common language tattoo? ›

Name tattoos are the most common type of language tattoos, with over 298,000 Instagram posts and 2.6 million annual Google searches. Commonly the name of a family member, a loved one who has passed, or a partner, many get name tattoos as a way to show they care and symbolize their affection.

What is the most common Yakuza tattoo? ›

The Koi carp is one of the most popular symbols among Yakuza tattoos. Synonymous with luck and good fortune , but also with motivation and perseverance . The Koi carp represents triumph in the face of adversity, such as victory in the face of a serious illness or an accident for example.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Rubie Ullrich

Last Updated:

Views: 6092

Rating: 4.1 / 5 (72 voted)

Reviews: 95% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Rubie Ullrich

Birthday: 1998-02-02

Address: 743 Stoltenberg Center, Genovevaville, NJ 59925-3119

Phone: +2202978377583

Job: Administration Engineer

Hobby: Surfing, Sailing, Listening to music, Web surfing, Kitesurfing, Geocaching, Backpacking

Introduction: My name is Rubie Ullrich, I am a enthusiastic, perfect, tender, vivacious, talented, famous, delightful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.