"This artwork showcases the striking and symbolic tattoos of three legendary figures from the Yakuza/Like a Dragon series—Ichiban Kasuga, Kazuma Kiryu, and Ryuji Goda. Each tattoo is a powerful representation of the character's identity, philosophy, and role in their respective stories, deeply rooted in the traditional Japanese irezumi (tattoo) art form.

Kazuma Kiryu – The Azure Dragon (Seiryu)
Kazuma Kiryu, the "Dragon of Dojima," bears a majestic Azure Dragon across his back, a mythical creature symbolising strength, wisdom, and leadership. In Japanese mythology, the Azure Dragon is one of the Four Symbols and represents the guardian of the East, embodying justice and honour. This perfectly aligns with Kiryu’s unwavering moral code, his loyalty to those he cares for, and his relentless pursuit of righteousness despite his past as a feared yakuza. The dragon’s fierce expression and intricate details reflect Kiryu’s inner strength and the burdens he carries, always choosing to protect rather than destroy.

Ryuji Goda – The Golden Dragon
Unlike Kiryu, who shares his title with the mythical Azure Dragon, Ryuji Goda’s tattoo features a Golden Dragon, a unique and rare representation in Japanese folklore. The dragon’s golden scales signify power, ambition, and dominance—qualities that define Ryuji’s character. As the adopted son of the Go-Ryu Clan’s boss, Ryuji seeks to unify all yakuza families under one rule, believing that there should only be "one true dragon." His tattoo reflects this philosophy, showcasing his pride and belief in his own strength. The Golden Dragon’s piercing gaze and commanding posture mirror Ryuji’s relentless drive, making him a formidable rival to Kiryu.

Ichiban Kasuga – The Dragonfish (Oogyo)
Ichiban Kasuga’s tattoo sets him apart from the others, depicting a massive oogyo or dragonfish—a creature based on the legend of a koi that swam upstream and transformed into a dragon. This story is a symbol of perseverance, transformation, and destiny, perfectly encapsulating Ichiban’s journey from an abandoned child to a yakuza, and later, a hero fighting for justice. Unlike Kiryu and Ryuji, who already embody dragon-like figures, Ichiban’s dragonfish represents his potential—he is not yet a dragon, but he is constantly striving to become one. His tattoo reflects his resilience, his unwavering optimism, and his belief in overcoming adversity, no matter the odds."