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The taijitu, a symbol of the Chinese cultural philosophy of yin and yang, has long been a popular choice for tattoos due to its meaningful background. Many people resonate with the idea that everything in the universe is made of opposing but complementary forces, like dark and light, sun and moon, and good and evil. But it is also popular for being quite an eyecatching design.
Yin (the black half of the symbol) represents inward energy that is dark and still, whereas yang (the white half of the symbol) has outward energy that is positive and bright. Within each half, there is a small dot of the opposing color, representing that there cannot be one without the other—they’re completely intertwined. Whether you feel connected to the culture or feel represented in the philosophy, it's undeniable that yin-yang signs make a great tattoo.
To help inspire, we've gathered 25 yin-yang tattoo ideas, from deconstructed looks to intricate ink.
Small Yin-Yang
A simple yin-yang with no extra detailing looks great next to other small tattoos. The minimalist approach is chic and dainty without feeling boring.
Deconstructed Yin-Yang
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A deconstructed yin-yang design is a great choice for those who want to go deeper into the symbolism and highlight each part. Try placing it along the muscle behind the ear to make it feel like a natural part of the body.
White Ink Yin-Yang
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While a mere depiction of the concept of yin and yang rather than an actual rendering of the symbol, this intricate design done partially in white ink tells a beautiful story of the sun and moon living harmoniously.
Half-and-Half Yin-Yang
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Split the two halves up for a dual tattoo moment that highlights the separation of "dark" and "light." Or, convince a friend to get this yin and yang as a matching tattoo moment—the choice is yours.
Yin and Yang Hearts
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Embrace your inner lover by replacing the dots in the halves with miniature hearts.
Lotus Flower Yin-Yang
The addition of ornamentation, like a lotus flower or dot work, expands the beauty of the yin-yang symbol.
Outline-Only Yin-Yang
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Play with the idea of the duality of yin and yang by using outline-only drawings instead of straight black ink. Keep the typically white side completely empty to play up the contrast.
Wrist Yin-Yang
Placing a small tattoo on the outer wrist is a great idea for anyone who likes to show off their ink. It’s easy to cover up as well, in case you'd rather temporarily conceal it.
Celestial Yin-Yang
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Emphasize the yin-yang’s meaning of light and dark coexisting in the universe by juxtaposing the symbol with a moon and a sun. Add detail to the extra images and keep the yin-yang simple to highlight its importance.
Fish Yin-Yang
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Instead of the traditional yin-yang symbol, you may want to try depicting the symbol with other characters, such as two fish. Instead of having one be stark black, use shading to add color without being too bold.
Brushstroke Yin-Yang
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Instead of outlining both halves of the yin-yang symbol, use negative space to keep the design a bit open-ended. This one uses feathering to give it a painted-on look.
Matching Yin and Yang Tattoos
As the yin-yang symbol is two separate halves coming together to form a whole, it’s a great tattoo to match with your best friend. Split the sign into two and get the side that most represents you!
Miniature Symbol
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For small tattoo lovers out there, screenshot this itty-bitty option. Tinier than a penny, this hand-drawn-style symbol is super cute.
Minimalistic Yin-Yang
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For a more minimal take on the traditional yin-yang symbol, this is the look for you. Peep the strategic shading on the dark side, which mimics the white dot that typically represents the light in the dark.
Cat Yin-Yang
Customize the traditional yin-yang symbol by making the halves something meaningful to you or just something you really love. This one uses contrasting cats for a personal touch.
Ribcage Yin-Yang Tattoo
If you want to go for a delicate, minimalist approach to your tattoo, make sure the lines and blackwork are extremely crisp. By using simple shapes and thin lines, the design shines on the ribcage without the need for extra detail.
Open Hands Yin-Yang
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Add a touch of whimsy to your tattoo design by playing with the shapes and proportions of the yin-yang symbol. This ink mimics the look of two hands hugged by a crescent moon for a fun and unique twist.
Snake Yin-Yang
For anyone who likes the symbolism of the yin-yang but wants to personalize it, try adding the halves as ornamentation to a larger design. The curves of this snake make the perfect space for the yin-yang halves to nestle into.
Aquatic Yin-Yang
Fish are a great representation of the yin-yang symbol because just as the light and dark of life are fluid, so is the movement of the aquatic creatures. Use shading and fine details to customize the fish further.
Finger Yin-Yang
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The finger is a great placement idea for a yin-yang symbol because it can easily be adapted to a small space. Use white ink to add light-like details that make it pop without overwhelming the finger.
Calf Yin-Yang
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Keep the ink itself simple if you want it to be more intimate, or personalize it with intricate details.
Inner Finger Yin-Yang
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If you like the look of a deconstructed yin-yang symbol, another great spot to get one is on the side of the finger. Keep the shapes simple and small for a chic and not-too-busy look.
Horizontal Yin-Yang
@matt.vesta / Instagram
A not-so-obvious twist you can easily do with your yin-yang tattoo is to change up the direction it lies. While typically, the halves face each other vertically, this tattoo has the halves face each other horizontally. So simple.
Dotted Line Yang
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While there are numerous ways one could interpret the dotted line on the light side, we're taking it as an opening for more "yang" to enter the balance.
Watercolor Yin-Yang
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A yin yang symbol doesn’t have to be minimal or super simple. Spice up the design by getting your ink in a fun, specific style, like watercolor tattoos.