Traditional Japanese phoenix design

The tail feathers are often the most impressive component of a phoenix tattoo, and this traditional Japanese phoenix tattoo design features long tail feathers that make up a large part of the phoenix image. According to ancient mythology, the phoenix is a fierce bird of fire that is cyclically reborn by setting itself on fire and rising from the ashes. Because of the legend surrounding the phoenix, many people opt for phoenix tattoos as a symbol of rebirth or new beginnings. For example, someone may decide to get a phoenix tattoo if they have overcome an obstacle or a difficult time in their life and are now starting fresh.