Red, black, white or gold: choosing a Japanese mask colour
Red, black, white or gold: compare cultural context, contrast, finish and lighting to choose a Japanese mask colour for your space.
Japanese folklore
Japanese guardians: Oni, Komainu, Tengu, dragons and Foo Dogs
Komainu guard shrine entrances. Oni, Tengu and dragons are protective only in particular contexts. Compare the figures without treating them as one family.
Raijin and Fujin tattoos: thunder, wind and irezumi
The thunder god and wind god in tattooing: meanings, identifying features, colours and how the pair works in an irezumi composition.
Ryū dragon tattoo: meaning of the Japanese dragon
The Japanese Ryū dragon in tattooing: natural power, water, clouds, colours and composition, without treating every visual detail as a fixed code.
Yokai or Kami: What Is the Difference in Japanese Culture?
Learn the difference between yōkai and kami in Japanese culture, with clear examples including oni, kitsune, Inari, tengu and yūrei.
Tengu Tattoo: Meaning, Mountains, Warfare and Protection
Explore Tengu tattoo meanings, Daitengu and Karasu forms, pride, mountain guardians, colors and placement for a coherent irezumi project.
Kitsune Tattoo: Meaning, Styles and Irezumi Ideas
Explore Kitsune tattoo meanings, nine tails, fox or mask designs, colors, placement, and how to plan an irezumi project with your tattoo artist.