Koi Fish Tattoos

The Fish tattoo has been in Japan for hundreds of years in the form of the Koi Fish Tattoo. Japanese legend says if a koi fish succeeds in climbing a waterfall at a point called the Dragon Gate on the Yellow River it would be transformed into a dragon. Based on that legend, it became a symbol of aspiration and advancement.

The Japanese associate koi fish (also known as carp) with perseverance in harsh conditions and strength of purpose. Because of its strength and resolve to overcome obstacles, it stands for courage and the ability to attain high goals.

According to legend, the koi climb the waterfall bravely, and if they are caught, they face their death on the cutting board bravely, like samurai. Other Japanese meanings include perseverance and strength.

Generally, koi fish tattoos’ meanings include strength of character and the temerity to face adversity and seemingly impossible odds. With regard to the Chinese “Dragon Gate” legend, koi fish are also seen as symbols of high aspiration and accomplishment. Koi are also referred to as “living jewels,” and so are likewise associated with luck and good fortune. The image of five golden koi are said to mean “eternal wealth” and well-being.

The general symbolic meaning of koi and koi tattoos is good luck. Since Koi Fish are usually very energetic, koi fish tattoo designs usually have very vivacious colors and lots of movement. There are many different colors and what they represent in the koi fish tattoo.