One of the more popular and striking Japanese tattoo themes for men is the snake. Unlike in predominantly Christian cultures, it lacks the ties with evil and temptation that many in the US have grown up with.
The Japanese snake tattoo, or hebi, can have a few different symbolic connotations. It’s often seen as a phallic/sexual symbol but also linked with the element of water and protection.
Serpent tattoos, as in many other cultures and mythologies, can also be tied to rebirth and immortality due to the reptile’s ability to shed it skin and start again.
A hebi themed tattoo will often be paired with a secondary motif (keshoubori) such as peonies and cherry blossoms, as these flowers match up with the snake’s cycle of movement in spring.
The Japanese pit viper is a popular design. The “mamushi,” is a beautiful animal with a circular pattern in the scales on its back and a more detailed black and white mosaic on its belly. While generally small, this venomous snake is excellent at sneaking up on its prey when they least expect it.
A Japanese snake tattoo over the wrist, winding around the bicep, or curling around the leg will surprise and delight people, especially if it peeks out of clothing. There are also opportunities for gorgeous coloring on the snake, such as bright greens, blues, and yellows.
The following collection of top 80+ Japanese snake tattoos showcase an amazing array of symbolic designs in color and black and gray that you could use for a new tattoo design.
1. Hikae: Arm and Chest Panel Japanese Snake Tattoos
2. Nagasode: Long Sleeve Japanese Snake Tattoo Ideas
3. Gobu: Upper Arm 1/2 Sleeve Snake Tattoo Ideas
4. Chest Japanese Snake Tattoos
5. Senaka: Japanese Snake Tattoos for the Back
6. Rib and Side Japanese Snake Tattoos
7. Japanese Snake Tattoo Ideas for the Leg
8. Black and Gray Japanese Snake Tattoo Ideas
9. Japanese Snake Tattoos in Progress
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