Yakuza Tattoo Photo #2689

In modern tattoo culture, people also use the phrase to describe Japanese irezumi-inspired designs in general. The most useful way to approach the topic is to focus on style, composition, and motifs rather than stereotypes.

Using only black ink at different dilutions, this style achieves a photographic quality with rich shadows and soft highlights. Black and grey work is versatile enough for portraits, nature scenes, and symbolic imagery.

The wrist offers a compact area that suits fine-line work, small symbols, and script. Its visibility means the tattoo becomes part of daily life, always in the wearer's line of sight.