
15 Best Anime Tattoo Designs for True Fans
Posted on
Anime tattoos have become pretty popular among tattoo lovers, especially youngsters. Tattoos that are inspired by Japanese animation are called anime tattoos. These tattoos are mainly influenced by characters, symbols, scenes and themes from Japanese animation, series, shows and movies. Anime-inspired tattoos capture the magic of storytelling in a way that feels deeply personal. Whether you’re fond of Chibi or are in love with Mangekyō Sharingan eyes, you can get a dramatically enchanting anime tattoo using your favourite character or symbol. In this post, we have gathered a list of the 15 best anime tattoo ideas for you to get some inspiration for your body artwork. So, without any further ado, let’s get started…
Anime Tattoo Meanings
Anime tattoos like any other type of body artwork also carry deep symbolism. Each anime design looks not only unique, but also carries deep symbolism for those who wear them. These designs often represent courage, perseverance, friendship, dreams, personal growth and self-discovery. For example, a Mangekyō Sharingan eye tattoo from Naruto symbolizes resilience and personal growth, while a tattoo of Straw Hat Jolly Roger rerpesents freedom, adventure, loyality and pursuit of dreams. The best part about these tattoos is that they can be as detailed or as tiny as you like. All in all, anime-inspired body artworks allow fans to express thier personality, values and passion in a unique way. You can choose any symbol, character or anime-inspired motif to get a delightful tattoo design.
15 Best Anime Tattoo Ideas
Here is our list of the best anime-inspired tattoo designs that offer the perfect blend of nostalgia, artistry and meaning. Take a look….
1. Mangekyō Sharingan Eyes Tattoo

Inspired by the Mangekyō Sharingan, the Mangekyō Sharingan eyes make for excellent tattoo design. Mangekyō Sharingan is a popular character from anime and manga series Naruto. This design looks distinct and unique and represents power and mastery – ideal for those who are inspired by these traits.
Placement Idea: Get it etched on your forearm or wrist.
2. Naruto’s Sage Mode Eyes Tattoo

Here is another eye tattoo that is again inspired by popular anime and manga series Naruto. Naruto Uzumaki’s Sage Mode eyes make for an intense and visually appealing tattoo design. It represents growth, discipline and transformation and is ideal for those looking for subtle anime-inspired tattoo pattern.
Placement Idea: You can get it etched on your forearm, wrist or neck.
3. Goku in Ultra Instinct Tattoo

If you are fond of Goku’s character in the Dragon Ball series, then surely Goku in Ultra Instinct tattoo is your best bet. It represents strength, endurance, calmness and one’s ability to overcome challenges. This tattoo design is perfect for all those who possess these traits and wish to showcase them through a unique tattoo design. Also, know that this is done in bigger size and different colors for vibrant pattern.
Placement Ideas: You can get inked on your forearm, back or shoulder blade.
4. Straw Hat Jolly Roger Tattoo

The Straw Hat Pirates’ Jolly Roger is yet another iconic design for anime lovers. The iconic flag of the Straw Hat Pirates from the popular anime/manga One Piece makes for a great design. This tattoo is ideal for those looking for subtle yet elegant anime-inspired body artwork. It features a skull with a straw hat above crossbones. It symbolizes freedom, adventure, loyalty and the pursuit of dreams.
Placement Ideas: It looks best when etched in small size either on wrist, ankle, chest, behind the ear and nape.
5. My Neighbor Totoro Tattoo

Here is another most iconic anime character from Studio Ghibli’s My Neighbor Totoro – Totoro. This is usually etched in small size and is perfect for wearers looking for cute and tiny tattoo patterns. This often represents nostalgia, friendship, childhood wonder, innocence and connection to nature. If you have it all, then this design is for you!
Placement Ideas: You can get this tattooed either on your wrist, ankle or behind the ear.
6. Pokemon Pokeball or Pikachu Tattoo

If you are fan of Pikachu – the iconic yellow, mouse-like Pokémon is the best bet for Pokemon fans. These tattoos are pretty popular for their cute and nostalgic look. They often symbolize adventure, friendship, and childhood memories.
Placement Idea: You can get it etched on your wrist, ankle, or behind the ear.
7. Studio Ghibli Minimalist Characters

For those looking for a tiny minimalist tattoo designs inspired by Japanese animations, then Studio Ghibli minimalist characters are your best options. Characters such as Totoro, Catbus or Kodama spirits are perfect. They make for elegant and subtle body artwork. They represent nature, nostalgia and innocence.
Placement Idea: The ideal placement for minimalist Studio Ghibli characters include ankle, nape, finger, behind the ear or wrist.
8. Levi Ackerman Tattoo

Here is another anime-inspired tattoo design for the fans of Attack on Titan. Tattoo of Levi Ackerman – the central character in Attack on Titan makes for a great tattoo design. This tattoo is pretty popular among Attack on Titan fans. It represents strength, discipline and unshakable resolve. You can choose to get the black and gray portrait of Levi with his signature cold gaze. Aside from that, you can even get “No Regrets” engraved along with the design for a unique pattern.
Placement Ideas: Forearm, shoulder, chest or back.
9. My Hero Academia Symbols Tattoo

My Hero Academia Symbols also make for great tattoo patterns among anime design fans. Hero logos or quirks like Deku’s gloves, All Might’s symbol, or Bakugo’s explosions are popular choices. You can choose the one that fits your preferences the best. These symbols often represent courage, heroism, individuality, and growth and you can get them etched in small or medium size on your skin.
Placement Ideas: They look perfect on forearm, shoulder or ankle.
10. Neon Genesis Evangelion Unit Tattoos

Neon Genesis Evangelion Unit are again popular anime designs. They often feature bold and artistic patterns etched in purple or green color schemes. Pilot Shinji Ikari’s emblem, berserk forms, the Lance of Longinus and symbolic imagery like the Cross or Adam make for incredibly stunning tattoo patterns. They represent inner strength, courage and resilience.
Placement Ideas: You can get them etched either on your back, arm or thigh.
11. Sailor Moon Crescent Moon Symbol Tattoo

Anime tattoos are not only boys, even girls can showcase their fondness for these characters with unique designs. Sailor moon crescent moon symbol makes for a timeless tattoo design for girls. They often symbolize feminine power, inner strength, love and protection. You can choose to get a minimal gold crescent on the wrist or a detailed moon with Lina (the cat) on a larger area of your body for a stylish design.
Placement Ideas: Wrist, forearm, chest, back or shoulder blade.
Also Read: Awesome Moon Phase Tattoo Ideas With Their Meaning
12. Denji’s Chainsaw Form Tattoo

If you’re looking for a bold, high-impact tattoo that mirrors your fierce, high-energy side, then Denji’s Chainsaw form is the perfect pick. A Chainsaw Man tattoo stands out like no other and looks extremely dynamic and nostalgic. Chainsaws, sparks and dark shadows together create a mesmerizing tattoo design. It represents transformation, power, resilience and desire.
Placement Ideas: Perfect for full sleeves, upper arm, bicep, shoulder, ribcage or thigh.
13. Studio Ghibli Forest Spirits Tattoo

For all the fans of Princess Mononoke, Studio Ghibli Forest Spirits tattoo is the best pick. It creates a soft, whimsical design that effortlessly stands out. It symbolizes harmony with nature, inner peace, courage and self-discovery. You can choose to get Kodama (tree spirits) or San and her wolves etched on you skin for a remarkable tattoo design. Pro Tip: Get it etched in watercolor pattern for an impactful and unique design.
Placement Ideas: Wrist, nape or near the ear (if small in size). Forearm, thigh or ribcage (for a medium-size tattoo design).
14. Hinata Hyuga’s Byakugan

The next anime tattoo idea is for all the Hinata fans. More often than not, Hinata fans prefer this design to show their love and fondness for Hinata Hyuga’s Byakugan. It symbolizes quiet strength, loyalty and gentle determination. Among several patterns, Hinata Hyuga’s eyes in activated Byakugan mode or Hinata in battle stance are pretty popular.
Placement Ideas: Wrist, forearm, ribcage, thigh or shoulder.
15. Luffy’s Gear 5 Form

Luffy’s Gear 5 form is a very popular motif for tattoos. It has garnered huge traction among anime lovers because of its cartoonish energy and outrageous power level. Luffy’s Gear 5 Form tattoo symbolizes freedom, resilience and limitless potential. It is a perfect pick for those looking for bright and playful aesthetics. Pro Tip: Get it in bold, colorful pattern for a unique design.
Placement Ideas: You can get it placed on your forearm, shoulder, thigh or calf.
The Bottom Line
So, this all about the 15 best anime tattoo ideas for true fans. If you are fond of Japanese animation characters, then these tattoos will surely inspire you. Anime tattoos are not just simple body artworks. They, in fact, provide you the way to express your fondness for this unique storytelling in style. Each design carries deep symbolism and memories you have gathered with each animation show or film. Whether you prefer bold anime design or subtle symbols inspired by Japanese animation shows, there is a tattoo for all. However, it is crucial to get your anime tattoo etched by an experienced and very skilled tattoo artist. Happy Tattooing… 😊 😊
Let’s now take a look at some FAQs pertaining to anime tattoo design. Here we go…
FAQs
- What are anime tattoos?
Anime tattoos are the body artworks inspired by Japanese animation (anime) and manga. They often feature characters, symbols, emblems and even scenes from popular or your favourite anime series. Often tattoo lovers get these designs to showcase their personal connection to the story or the characters.
- Are anime tattoos only for large designs?
No, not at all! Anime tattoos can be tiny, subtle and minimalist as well. It all depends on you – how do you want your anime tattoo to be. Whether you want a minimalist anime pattern or a full-color detailed piece, anime provides you freedom to choose the size and pattern of your choice.
- Can women also get anime tattoos?
Yes! Anybody can get an anime-inspired tattoo design. Anime tattoos are generally gender-neutral and the best thing about these designs is that they can be adapted in size, color and style to suit anyone.
- Can I get a minimalist anime tattoo?
Yes. Minimalist tattoos are very much possible for those who do not wish to overboard with their anime designs. Minimalist anime patterns often feature simple outlines, symbols or small characters. Some of the popular minimalist anime tattoo includes, tiny Mangekyō Sharingan glyphs, chibi characters or small anime logos.
- How to get the best out of my anime tattoo?
Well, to get the best out of your anime character, just make sure to choose the right pattern (symbol, emblem or scene), find the tattoo artist who specialises in anime style and choose the placement according to the size and details of the design. With these in mind, you would be able to get the best anime design etched on your skin that you will cherish all your life!






