Japanese Dragon Tattoo Dragons are one of the most popular Japanese-style tattoos. These creatures are often depicted as destructive and terrifying in Western culture. In Japan, they are considered to be generous and wise and use their powers to help people. They don’t have wings and look more like sea serpents. There are lots of art style options for the Japanese dragon tattoo, including the colorful traditional look – known as irezumi – or a more minimalist style.