Motif
Maple tattoos in Japan
Maple leaf tattoos feature maple leaves colored in red and yellow. In Japanese traditional (wabori), they are sometimes combined with deer or flowing rivers as a motif representing autumn, and designs featuring just a single small maple leaf as a small one-point tattoo are also seen.
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Questions
What do maple leaf tattoos mean?
They are used as a motif representing the autumn season, and some Japanese traditional (wabori) combine them with flowers from other seasons, such as cherry blossoms in spring, to depict the four seasons. There are various theories regarding their symbolic meanings.
Should maple leaf tattoos be colored?
Besides depicting leaves colored in red or orange, there are also designs that only outline the leaf shape in solid black. The appearance of colors and how they change over time vary depending on skin type and tattooing method, so please discuss this with an artist to decide.
How should I consult about a maple leaf tattoo?
It will be easier to proceed with your consultation if you convey whether you want only leaves or a combination with deer or flowing water, as well as the desired body placement and size. Visiting Japan? Send us your idea and dates through our booking form, and we'll match you with an artist whose work fits.