What is the symbolism of the dragonfly tattoo in Japan?

Answer 1

Dragonfly Tattoos - The dragonfly, like the fairy and butterfly tattoo is an extremely popular tattoo design for women. The design can be a small sexy secret or a large tribute to the wild and free spirit that the dragonfly represents. The dragonfly is the power of light. The dragonfly inhabits two realms: air and water and passes the influence of both these elements to the wearer. The image of the dragonfly sparks the creative power of the imagination. Living in an aura of fantasy, the dragonfly's fluttering wings inspire thoughts of fairies and butterflies; bubbles and snowflakes. They flit from flower to flower, from tree to tree; settling on dew-kissed leaves and grass. Within sight yet always out of reach, the dragonfly has buzzed itself into the tattoo culture. Dragonfly tattoo designs are landing everywhere - on arms, chests, hips and tailbones!

Now, instead of capturing these enchanting creatures in glass jars or nets, many people have decided to eternally capture them on containers of flesh. Blue, green, or violet; pink, silver or golden; the dragonfly has proven itself a deserving addition to the world of body art. Dragonflies lend themselves to so many other thought, ideas and associations that it's pretty much futile to limit the possibilities for a dragonfly tattoo design. Any color you like would be appropriate: silver, gold, emerald green, sky blue, grey, lavender, you name it. They can appear on ankles, thighs, backsides, lower backs, shoulders, armbands and breasts. Additionally, dragonflies certainly aren't limited to women! In Native American Astrology, there is a strong belief that each person has a totem animal spirit which serves as their guardians and guides through certain phases of life. Often, an individual would have many different totems throughout life, some for just a time, some for their entire lives. And one of these totem spirits was the spirit of the dragonfly. It would adopt men and women, young and old. The dragonfly spirit means you must consciously make an effort to express your hopes, dreams, needs and wishes. The dragonfly spirit is the essence of the winds of change, the messages of wisdom and enlightenment; and the communication from the elemental world. Its medicine beckons you to seek out the parts of your habits which need changing. You can turn to the dragonfly to guide you through the mists of illusion to the pathway of transformation. Is the dragonfly spirit beckoning to you?

Answer 2

It is the symbol of good luck, a good harvest and used as a symbol of warrior clans and emperors in Japan.

In China it is the symbol of summer and also instability

Answer 3

This mythical bird is a symbol of justice and fidelity. The phoenix represents the element fire and the female force.

Answer 4

New light and joy. Helps one see through illusions. Associated with rice plant spirit.

Answer 5

unity between man and woman