So which do you like better? Polynesian or Japanese?

I'm in a quandary....I'm looking to get a full back tattoo, with arm bands but am having a difficult time deciding which style would work better. Love the simplicity of the Polynesian and the symbolic meanings behind the designs. I also love the color and beautiful flow of the Japanese tats and they too have symbolic meaning.

For the Japanese one I was thinking something along these lines:



I haven't found anything remotely like what I envision for the Polynesian one. I have drawn out my designs, but can't scan them....

So which style do you like better and why....opinions please....

Can you post examples of each?

Here are some examples of the Polynesian style I like:

You know I have nothing but excellent & total respect for you....so please don't be upset with me when I BEG you not to get any tattoo's at all.

Nothing says Double-wide like a tattoo.....

My answer, since you're asking...is neither.

I have never seen a non-poly with a Polynesian tat...It wouldn't suit - go Asian.

LMAO!!!! I knew there would be a few people who do not particularly like the whole tattoo "stigma" hence, the "neither" option. I can respect that, (I particularly like the "double wide" comment....LOL) but since more people use the term "exotic" to describe what I look like to them, I would probably look more like I need a bone thru my nose, than trailer trash.....lol

In either case, I am already doomed, as I have a tattoo (around my ankle), and have been planing on getting this one for many years. I don't tend to "expose" my body (except to my husband) so it's not something that will likely be seen by anyone but him, and me.

I am fascinated by both the art of Irezumi and the symbolic nature of the Polynesian art and their cultural meanings.....

Thansk for your opinion though...

From seeing your picture, I personally think you look better without any visible tats.

Greatest tattoos on planet earth:









Lulz. But seriously, I think they both have their pros and cons. Whatever you get, you're going to be stuck with for the rest of your life, so I don't think our opinions on them matter.

However, Genki Sudo's eagle tat is inspired by the Nazca Lines in Peru, which seems original and looks awesome.





Update: My files are named "s-h-i-t-t-ytats" and they have been censored. They're funny, too :/

Yeah, I dunno where this sh!t comes from, just pops into my head. I do the obnoxious-jovial thing so you can laugh at it.....t'sall good.

Actually, some ankle tat's are rather cute and for woman I can tolerate some nice accents....but when you've got more tat then skin, it's just (IMO) wrong. But ya know what...it's just an opinion and you know the old saying about that.

If you must.....go Asian. The Poly looks a bit like you travelled back in time, fell asleep and some cave-men went nuts on your back. Ya know, maybe you should try a "Henna" to see if this is really your thing.

I don't mean to sound like a prick (it just happens)...but there's a few older gals in the gym with serious tat's and when you're a bit out-of-shape and in your 50's with an aging body....nothing looks more ridiculous!!!! Ya gotta live for the day but always keep in mind tomorrow........

Ya know...I respect that fact that you're willing to put this up for discussion/opinions. Shine on your crazy diamond.

Genki actually designed that himself and (apparantly) when he does a lat pulldown, it looks like it's flapping its wings.

I dont know the difference between the styles really, but if you want a tat, get one! Just choose wisely.

Iv still to get my first one, i keep spending up tho! But i no exactly what i want! cant wait

are you guys kidding,maori ones are the best, im sure NBS will agree haha. Sonnyy bill Williams has awesome ones..

well the only part that would be somewhat visible would be the arm bands....

Polynesian, I love polynesian tats.

and now you've seen a non-polynesian w/ a polynesian tat because I have one Streamline.

It's hard to find people in the continental US who do them well. I got mine on Kauai

well I was just wondering what others liked. I will come up with my own determination in the end. I was half expecting to hear what others have, I can't believe that with everyone on here who is so aware of their body image there aren't more people with tats and opinions.....