Chinese dragon tattoos are arguably the most popular tattoo designs that are inspired by Asian mythology and culture. The topic of dragons almost always pops up whenever there is a discussion of Chinese mythology. This mythological beast plays a huge role in Chinese culture. China is often nicknamed as Dragon by other countries in world politics.
Dragon tattoos are the most common tattoo pieces that you can spot on celebrities and even on commoners. But within dragon tattoos, there are different types of dragons that are chosen by people to be inked on their bodies. There is a European dragon, a Vikings-inspired dragon, a Japanese dragon, and a Chinese dragon.
The dragon tattoos inspired by Chinese mythology are considered more meaningful and better than other styles. This is because within Chinese mythology there are 9 types of dragons that are further divided into more than 100 sub-classes. This means that you have more than 100+ Chinese dragon types to choose from.
These sub-classes of dragons are divided based on their characteristics, virtues, and other attributes. You can easily find and read about them online. It becomes easier for a tattoo lover to pick a dragon that truly reflects their personality or their vision.
Since there are more than 100 dragons that you can pick out from therefore there are 100s of meanings that you can convey from your Chinese dragon tattoos design. The meanings often crossover too as these dragons are classified into earth dragons and celestial dragons.
Chinese Dragon tattoos Meaning
Chinese mythology is full of dragon stories. You will surely find a story about the dragon that you picked for yourself. You can read the story and better understand how the dragon you chose can symbolize your personality. Here are some common overlapping meanings of different Chinese dragon tattoos that you should aim for –
Rare – Dragons were rare (even in Chinese mythology). If you are a fan of the game of thrones (like me) then you do know that how Dragons went extinct until brought back to life by Daenerys. The rarity of dragons makes them a fascinating beast.
This also gives your tattoo a unique meaning as you can symbolize that you too are a rare person, a gem that is hard to find.
Protector – Several Chinese legendary tales told that dragons were protectors of precious mythical items. In the Lord of the Rings saga by JRR Tolkien, Smaug the dragon protected gold from Hobbits and Elves.
You can get inked with a dragon that signifies protection. It will represent that you are a protective person who can do anything for your family and friends.
Good Luck – Dragons are often associated with Good Luck. This is because in legendary tales it was almost impossible to spot a dragon. Despite a towering stature, dragons were experts in hiding in clear sight. Most tales concluded that how a person’s life changed for good after meeting a dragon.
You can wear a dragon tattoo as a good luck charm.
Health – Chinese dragons are also linked with good health. This was indicated in several tales where a person fighting a deadly disease would recover from it without any sign of struggle after meeting a dragon. Some tales even revolve around how dragon’s larva is used to treat deadly diseases.
As a sign of good health, you can get a Chinese dragon tattoo inked on your arms.
Strength – Dragons were all-powerful and mighty. These legendary beasts were almost impossible to defeat. The brute strength is what makes them attractive to male tattoo lovers. If you are a hardcore gym rat who wants to symbolize that muscles are love then a dragon tattoo is the best choice for you.
Long Life – Dragons would live 1000s of years. They will not suffer from any disease and would easily recover from any injury. These are the virtues that everyone dreams of. Life is tough but still, most people want to live as long as possible. Your Chinese dragon tattoo can represent this wish.
Loner –You will hardly find any tale that mentions a dragon family. Most dragon stories focused on dragons living alone in their lair in mountains. While it is not a good sign to show yourself as a lonely person but you can show yourself as a loner who handles his responsibilities and does not fear anything.
Chinese Dragon tattoos Ideas
Small Chinese Dragon tattoos
Chinese Dragon Tattoos For Girls
Also Read – Dragonfly Tattoos
Red Chinese Dragon tattoos
Chinese Dragon Tattoos Designs for Females
Conclusion
Do not regard dragons as evil. Western culture has often shown dragons as evil creatures but in Chinese mythology, dragons are often considered pure souls who never harm a good person. After picking your dragon design share it on your Facebook feed and get an idea from your friends about your future ink choice.
References: Chinese Dragon Wiki
