From Horeekei: The Peony is considered to be the king of flowers and is used in Japanese tattooing as a symbol of good fortune, bravery and honour. Many of the Suikoden heroes in Japanese art are tattooed with this flower as it demonstrates strength and a devil-may-care attitude. The flowers are usually depicted as red or pink, both colours that allude to passion and strength. The snake, unlike in the west, is viewed in a very positive light within Japanese culture. It signifies good luck, wisdom and protection against misfortune.