Koi Fish Symbolism for Tattoos

The Koi fish image is often useful for tattoo designs. The koi fish is known for vibrant and stunning colors. It is also known for its apparent elegance and symbolism surrounding the Koi fish.

Simply put, Koi means carp in Japanese, however these beautiful and expensive fish we all love are carp that were especially bred from ancient China. This special breeding is the foundation of producing multi-color varieties of the Koi fish collections for a multitude of individuals.

Koi fish are vigorous swimmers and can travel upstream. In an ancient Chinese legend, it is told there are Koi who are brave enough to swim up waterfalls of the Yellow River and that if any fish can reach the point in the river called the Dragon Gate that fish would become a dragon.

Originally, Koi came from China. However, the Japanese have made it a worldwide name. In Japan, the Koi is celebrated as a symbol of exceptional courage. They say that if a Koi is caught and set upon a cutting board, that it will lay still and await the dropping of the knife without trembling. That it is patience and enduring to the death much like the qualities of a samurai warrior who courageously faces the sword valiantly.

In general, a Koi fish tattoo means having valor and the boldness to face adversity even while facing impossible odds for victory. Koi is also recognizable as symbols of accomplishment and high aspirations. They are often referred to as living jewels. They are also associated with prosperity and good luck. The image of five golden Koi means eternal well being, wealth and prosperity.

Non-conformity is yet another interpretation of the ability of the Koi fish to swim upstream strongly. Individuals who place great significance in being an independent thinker, this tattoo motif is one they may like to consider.

The meaning of Koi fish tattoos may vary from one individual to another. Many believe that the Koi tattoo design meaning will differ depending upon the colors, position and placement of the fish as well as many other features of the personal design. Keeping in mind the definitive meaning of any tattoo will always be uniquely personal for those who wear them.

Since Koi fish display stunning beauty in their patterns, it is always a good idea to choose a Koi tattoo design that shows off its natural combination of dazzling colors such as white, yellow, gold, black and red.