Colorful koi fish are among the most iconic symbols in traditional Asian tattoos. you may recognize them by our toronto & vancouver tattoo shops or from our asian tattoo gallery. koi fish are symbolic tattoos that can have great meaning for those who wear them.
what is a koi fish
Koi are a variety of colorful carp from East Asia. Its Japanese name, nishikigoi, means “brocade carp.” an appropriate name for a fish commonly used decoratively in ponds and water gardens. its vibrant colors are the result of millions of years of genetic mutation.
The fossil record dates koi fish back 20 million years, although they were first named in 500 B.C. These iconic Japanese fish were first introduced to China. In the 19th century, koi farmers began breeding them for specific color varieties.
the story of the koi fish
Koi fish tattoos are popular not because of a colorful fish, but because of a legendary fish. the legend of koi fish begins in the yellow river in china where they grew stronger by swimming against the current.
A school of koi fought against the current, swimming upstream until they reached a waterfall at the end of the river. most of the koi turned around, but the bravest continued, attempting to jump to the top of the waterfall.
As the koi continued to attempt to scale the turbulent waters, the demons laughed at their efforts and transformed the waterfall into a larger, more challenging obstacle. slowly the fish began to surrender, one after another.
After hundreds of years, only one koi persevered. When he reached the top, the gods rewarded his efforts by transforming the koi fish into a golden dragon.
Through this legend, the koi fish became a symbol that embodies perseverance and determination.
the meaning of a koi fish tattoo
The most common meaning of koi fish tattoos is perseverance. they are often used to symbolize struggles one has overcome or is overcoming in their own life. other meanings can be added depending on the colors and styles of the tattoo.
meaning of koi fish tattoos and their colors
The color of a koi tattoo can change its meaning, although all interpretations are positive symbols. Of course, for your own koi tattoo, you can choose any color, regardless of its meaning. traditionally, however, these colors have their own meanings:
- gold
- black
- red
- blue
- white
golden koi fish tattoo meaning
gold, yellow or orange are popular choices for koi fish tattoos. after all, the legendary koi transforms into a golden dragon. Plus, this color choice represents wealth, prosperity, and fortune, and who doesn’t want a little more of that?
black koi fish tattoo meaning
The black koi is a symbol of masculinity that can represent fatherhood. it often recognizes a successful battle through the struggle in one’s life.
red koi fish tattoo meaning
A red koi tattoo can have several different meanings. it can be a symbol of intense love, motherhood, power, strength or bravery. is a popular koi fish tattoo color.
meaning of the blue koi fish tattoo
The blue koi fish is often associated with masculinity and fertility. Other common blue koi tattoo meanings are peace, serenity, and calm.
meaning of white koi fish
A white koi tattoo represents professional success. it can also represent the son of a family.
meanings of the koi style
The style and design of koi fish tattoos can also give importance to their meaning. Some traditional styles include:
- dragon
- yin yang
- lotus
koi dragon tattoo meaning
A koi dragon tattoo incorporates an Asian dragon and a koi fish. the dragon represents strength, power and ferocity, while the koi embodies perseverance and willpower. together, they allude to the legend of the koi fish, which represents transformation and rebirth.
This tattoo can mean a fresh start or a fresh start.
meaning of yin yang koi
Yin yang koi tattoos represent the duality and harmony of life. They are often black and white tattoos, but can also incorporate color.
yin yang koi fish tattoos are usually placed side by side, swimming in opposite directions. In the image above, the yin and yang fish are arranged in an infinity pattern.
koi lotus meaning
lotus and koi have similarities in their transformation. the lotus flower grows out of the mud to become a beautiful flower. Together, lotus and koi fish tattoos represent growth and overcoming struggles.
get a koi fish tattoo in toronto & Vancouver
The symbolism of the koi fish has a universal appeal with a meaning unique to each individual. each has their own struggles and challenges to overcome. koi can mark your successful conquest or continued perseverance.
With such a significant symbol, it is important to find an artist who understands the meaning and lore of this tattoo. the best asian tattoo artists in toronto & Vancouver has the skills and experience to create the koi that represents you.
