Koi Tattoos

The popularity of Koi tattoos is growing every day. So makes these brightly colored fish so popular. Many just like their decorative beauty and bold colors, while others choose a koi because of the symbolism that it represents.

Koi originated in China and they were introduced into Japan in the 1800′s. According to Chinese legend, it is believed that if a koi succeeded in climbing the Yellow River falls to “Dragon’s Gate” then it would be distorted into a dragon. This symbolizes worldly aspiration and advancement. In Japan they are considered a manly symbol and according to legend, if a koi climbs the waterfall bravely, and if they are caught, they will lay on the cutting board entirely still facing their death bravely just as a samurai would.
Koi fish are very powerful and energetic and they can swim against the current to reach food or spawning ground. This fact also has bearing on whether people have their koi tattoo swimming up or down. It is said that if the fish is swimming upstream then you have overcome a hardship during trying times. If it is swimming down, then you are fraught with a hardship. However others translate this to mean that a koi tattoo swim upstream represents a very independent person that has very little concern for what others think. You would rather be your own person and face the challenge of swimming against a hard current than to conform to the rules of society. This is an act of power and you cannot be deterring by anything.

Koi symbolism is also associated with:

Good luck
Wealth
Bravery
Independence
Masculinity
Power and perseverance

There are many varieties of koi and they vary in color and design. Many people believe that the color of the koi tattoo should be in harmony with you and your background. Some of the more popular breeds and their colors are listed below:

Asagi – Light blue top surface with red underside
Bekko – Red, white or yellow with black markings
Butterfly Koi – These come in many colors but are known for their long fins and slender bodies
Goshiki – Black background with white, red, brown and light blue markings
Hikari Moyomono – Two colored fish with one of the colors being metallic
Kin Gin Rin – Reflective scales make these fish shiny metallic colored
Kohaku – White with red markings
Koromo – Ordered scales with blue edges
Ogon – Single colored
Showa – Black with red and white
Taisho Sanshoku or Sanke – White, red and black
Tancho – White with a red spot on its head
Utsurimono – Black and red or white or yellow

In addition to their symbolic meanings, these tattoos are some of the most beautiful works of art that you can have on your body. Many people add water, a waterfall or flowers to their design. Another popular alternative is to have two or more koi swimming together. The possibilities are endless, and no matter what the reasoning or symbolism is behind your Koi tattoo, this is one design that you will truly love forever.