The dragon is an enduring phenomenon in traditional body art design and tattoos illustrating modern pop culture of film, television, and video games.

Dragons offer fantastic variety in design types and symbolism, ranging from tribal tattoo art through to the Western and Asian mythological creature; with distinctly different character traits and symbolic meaning.

Cultures worldwide associate the mighty reptile with mystical power and the unparalleled freedom to roam and do as they please. 

As part of far eastern mythology, the spiritual dragon represents freedom, balance, and good fortune. In Chinese mythology they are also associated with wisdom and protection.

The Western dragon in European folklore is more vicious, and disparate in looks. The fantasy dragon can also be etched in traditional positions but have been utilized more in contemporary dragon design offering detailed storytelling creativity within the tattoo idea.

1. Japanese Dragon Tattoo

See more about – The Best Japanese Dragon Tattoo Ideas

To some the Japanese dragon tattoo represents strength, power, masculinity, or sexual passion. For others, the dragon depicts longevity, good luck and great wisdom.

In Japanese culture the dragon are symbols of forces that use their strength for the good of others, and are held in equal parts awe and respect.

In traditional tattooing coiling dragon tattoos are popular inspiration, with these Japanese dragon tattoo, or irezumi, creating a huge impact on the development of beautiful dragon tattoo idea.

2.  Chinese Dragon Tattoo

See more about – 50 Chinese Dragon Tattoos

In Chinese culture ink is maximized by creating the powerful red dragon, but these wild designs can be pulled off in any hue. In Chinese mythology a colorful tattoo of the beast is associated with primordial energies that can alter the state of reality.