49 Koi Fish Tattoo Designs with Meanings. What better way to do this than to get great looking koi fish tattoo. Know more about the koi fish tattoo before getting one permanently inked. Anyone that lives this long was bound to have some good luck along the way so to have this represented in a tattoo tells us that the person wearing the tattoo is looking for a little luck and health in their lives. Thus it indicates a tattoo wearer to move on, and start afresh in life. Well, besides being an extremely beautifully-colored fish, the koi fish is actually one of the most popular Japanese tattoo symbols, and is becoming a popular tattoo design in other parts of the word as well. It symbolizes overcoming difficulties, just like the koi did by climbing the Dragon Gate. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Spiritual Symbols Spiritual Drawings Buddhism Symbols Sanskrit Symbols Hindu Symbols Yoga Symbols Sanskrit Tattoo Symbols And Meanings Meaning Of Life. The well-known orange color does not often occur in nature as they are product of a breeding plan meant to produce a more marketable fish. Well, this amazing fish has a lot of significance. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. We will also talk about some of the different variations of the koi fish tattoo and what these variations symbolize. Tattoos are a creative way of expressing oneself and this body art has been around since ancient times. 6789 Quail Hill Pkwy, Suite 211 Irvine CA 92603. It is very popular and has been a favorite in the tattoo world. Koi fish are a legendary fish in Japanese culture. In this sense, the koi symbolizes longevity and good luck. Having a rich cultural history, koi fish have amassed a number of symbolic meanings and associations. Traditionally, tattoos were used not only to enhance one’s image but were also used to identify a clan or tribe. There are numerous myths and legends surrounding this fascinating fish. The Koi used all its strength to fight its way up the stream and reach the top. If you think the koi tattoo symbolizes you and your personality, then do a thorough research about the design and placement of the tattoos. Make a splash with leaping, life-affirming koi ink anywhere from your arm to your ankle. Copyright © Thoughtful Tattoos & Buzzle.com, Inc. The koi fish is staple in Japanese tattooing (also known as Irezumi) and has long been a symbol that many take on as representations of themselves. Their fossils date back 20 million years. Koi Dragon Tattoo Koi Fish Tattoo Forearm Pez Koi Tattoo Koi Fish Tattoo Meaning Coy Fish Tattoos Koi Tattoo Sleeve Carp Tattoo Tattoo Sleeve Designs Tattoo Designs Men. The blue koi fish represents the son of the family. By Benna Crawford Tattoo Designer . Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. The design below looks magnificent and has a beautiful colour combination. The sides of black and white are said to resemble a female and a male koi swimming together, representing the harmony of two opposite energies coming together as one, … Yin-Yang. The flowers add a sense of life and nature to the design as well as the idea of renewal. The koi carp in China were known to attempt swimming upstream in the yellow river, but only a few of them were able to swim past a point called … Koi Tattoo or Koi Fish Tattoo, the real meaning is describe in this video. Fortunately, you can find the work of most tattoo artists online before you go in and talk to them. The golden or yellow koi fish is associated with wealth and gold. The word “koi” comes from the Japanese language originally and means “carp”. The word ‘koi’ is taken from the Japanese word ‘nishigikoi’. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. You should have a much better understanding of the koi fish tattoo by the time you have finished reading this. When the fish is depicted to be swimming upstream, it can symbolize that the person who has got the tattoo, is still struggling with his problem. The most common meaning of koi fish tattoos is perseverance. It’s important to get an artist who understands koi fish symbolism. Koi Fish Tattoo Meaning. From this, they have also become a representation of wisdom and patience, attributes that are acquired through decades of life and experience. Blue also represents peace, tranquility and calmness. The red koi symbolizes loves. The tattoo art of Irezumi is a specific skill set that not every tattoo artist has. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. As such, you can expect the beautiful fish to represent riches, zen and other similar oriental themes. If you have looked and are still having trouble finding an artist that will get the job done, let us know because we would love to make a recommendation for you. It also means love for the opposite sex or longing for a specific person. There is a controversy regarding the blue koi fish and its meaning. The flower can be monochromatic, or anything else, whatever an artist feels appropriate for his personality. These tattoos look very pretty and have several meanings. Fascinated by the koi and want to get one tattooed, but don’t really know its meaning? If a blue koi is designed swimming up it can represent overcoming a person hurdle while swimming down can depict the hurdle having already been surmounted. The koi is oftentimes paired with flowers like lotus and hibiscus. This much-loved flower has many different meanings and it is often seen with the koi. It symbolizes strength, determination and adversity. Black and grey waves are sometimes rendered in the background of the design, creating thick streams of water, wind, or in some cases sun beams. You may think that a fish is poor choice for a tattoo, because really, what kind of meaning can a fish tattoo have? Koi Fish Tattoo Direction Meaning. You two will be able to work together on your desired effect. Sign up to receive the latest and greatest articles from our site automatically each week (give or take)...right to your inbox. Cream-colored koi are extremely rare and revered as a striking and special breed. A blue koi fish symbolizes calmness, and peace. The names koi and carp are interchangeable and reveal the history of the beautiful fish. On the other hand, if it is depicted swimming downstream, it implies that the person has already overcome his difficulties. The 100 Best Koi Fish Tattoos. They believe that the koi (or carp as it translates to) has the ability to climb the falls of the Yellow River to become a dragon. Know more about the koi fish tattoo before getting one permanently inked. Here’s a helpful guide to koi fish tattoos. Koi are an ancient and worldly fish. This is also the case when talking about tattoos of this well-known fish. Because of this legend, koi fish tattoos often symbolize a person’s goals and aspirations to better themselves. Well, this amazing fish has a lot of significance. Koi fish also symbolizes inner strength, determination and achievement. The myth tells of the hundreds of koi who struggled to swim up a waterfall that continuously increases in height due to the malice of the surrounding demons. As the river grew more difficult and the current more treacherous, many of them dropped off, until only one fish preserved and made it all the way to the top of the waterfall at the end of the river. Of course, the ultimate meaning of any tattoo would always be unique and personal for the person who has it. Koi fish tattoos often incorporate various symbols, such as the yin-yang symbol, water and fire, dragons, or lotus flowers. This love can be described as ‘romantic love’ or ‘passionate love’. Koi tattoos are often designed with elegant curves and angles and brightly colored scales. They are known for swimming upstream no matter what the water conditions are, because of this they are often seen as a symbol of perseverance. Koi fish tattoo meanings. Upward Direction. Due to the legend, there was a school of koi fish which were going upstream against a current. The actual fish are full of energy especially when found in their natural habitat. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. You should know that a koi tattoo with the fish swimming upstream and one swimming downstream has different meanings. THE WILD TATTOO. Black can symbolize overcoming adversity or pain with a positive, successful outcome. Japanese Koi Fish Tattoo Meaning. The koi is considered to be very brave because when a koi fish is caught it does not quiver like other fish. The koi fish can be interpreted in different ways. The koi, or Japanese carp, is a powerful symbol in Asian cultures and a popular choice for elaborate and impressive tattoos. Lotus symbolizes struggle and change in life. It contains so many meanings that even its direction can tell so much story about the wearer. These tattoos are in vogue since a long time and they are also one of the most colorful tattoos that are equally loved by both men and women. The koi fish also represents the following: Koi tattoo are done in various bright hues and each color depicts a particular meaning. If you are in a dilemma about which tattoo to get, that will suit your personality, then how about getting an amazing koi fish. The lotus with the koi symbolizes that with struggle and determination, success is inevitable. It is sometimes associated with reproduction. They believe that the koi (or carp as it translates to) has the ability to climb the falls of the Yellow River to become a dragon. Look for the one that is unique and best expresses you. In Japanese, koi is a word that also translates to “love” and “affection” which has lead the colorful fish to become a symbol of love and lovers as well as aspiration. Koi fish are often paired with the yin-yang symbol. In Buddhism, koi represents fearlessness and courage. Blue koi are generally seen as being very masculine but can also represent reproduction. Koi fish tattoos are done in different colors, each with their own meaning. 6 Inspiring Spring Tattoos That Are a Must-have For Nature-lovers, 4 Things You Need To Know About Getting Your First Tattoo, 5 Gothic Tattoos That Occult Lovers Will Die For. The fish is generally placed on a body of raging water to show the movement of the Koi. 5 of 10 Review 380 view. The koi is a common symbol of power and transition often seen in Irezumi, the traditional Japanese tattooing practice. When the koi in the tattoo is shown swimming upstream, it can be used to mean that the tattooee is still struggling with his problem, whereas a koi swimming downstream implies that the tattooee has already overcome his difficulty. A koi fish tattoo can have many meanings. Koi fish hold deep meaning for those who have it adorning their bodies. Koi fish tattoos meaning is as wonderful and varied as the legend they represent. Koi Fish. Fascinated by the koi and want to get one tattooed, but don't really know its meaning? One modern variety, however, the Ogon, is usually just one shade of a metallic color such as gold, copper, silver, or very rarely cream. Depending on the colour, the direction they swim, and what they are paired with, they can mean many different things, but always show courage and bravery in the face of hardship. This ancient practice is rooted in spirituality but also as a marker of status and in some periods, it was used to label criminals. It just lies on the cutting board, staring and waiting for its fate. Red koi fish: These often channel a strong energy, but can also be representative of love and passion. It is also seen as a symbol of strength and will, the will to go against all odds to reach its destiny. An ancient Japanese legend that is hidden behind koi makes this tattoo idea even more attractive and desired. The yin and yang koi are also seen in the zodiac sign Pisces. If you show a red sun sign in the forehead of a yellow koi fish then this means that the fortune you acquired also have mystical meanings. The koi fish tattoo is one of the most meaningful tattoo designs out there. 3. #cardthartic #greetingcards #congratulations #koifish #achievement #success. Vivid red and black koi with orchid. We hope it gets you closer to getting your very own koi fish tattoo. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. The most famous fish tattoo that originated among them was the koi fish tattoo. Meaning of Koi Fish Tattoos. They are said to own several masculine qualities such as strength and bravery. Some spots for a koi fish tattoo includes the forearms, the back and other areas on your body. If you are a tattoo enthusiast, then a koi fish tattoo is what you should go for. A koi fish tattoo with running water symbolizes courage, the ability to attain goals and to overcome life’s difficulties. If you are a tattoo enthusiast, then a koi fish tattoo is what you should go for. The Meaning of a Koi Fish Tattoo. Backs are a popular location for koi tattoos. If you want to get yourself a tattoo of a koi fish, then make sure you learn the meaning closely associated with them. In this post we are going to dive into the lore behind the koi fish and talk about the symbolism that is attached to it. These cookies do not store any personal information. Others also believe that the meaning of the koi tattoo design differ depending on the placement, colors and position of the fish, as well as other aspects of the design. Many people view this as bravery in the face of defeat. However, in the western world this tattoo is the symbol of success after a change. 1.2k. As we know, the yin and yang represents balance. We've created informative articles that you can come back to again and again when you have questions or want to learn more! Koi fish are also a common subject in tattoos. All of this is based on the huge amount of reverence and respect that the Japanese people have for the humble koi fish. koi fish are renowned symbols in Japanese and Chinese culture. Koi fish also have a very long lifespan and can sometimes live for up to 200 years. This ancient fish was one of the earliest forms of aquatic life known today. Koi fish are bred to develop a rainbow of colors and rarely do the scales on koi reflect only one color. Different colors of Koi Tattoo represent different meaning. They are often used to symbolize the struggles one has overcome or is overcoming in their own life. Hibiscus with the koi fish might also mean undying devotion or passionate love for someone, maybe even from the past. Thus the fish can be thought of as a symbol for family strength and unity. Single colored fish utilize a specific color to symbolize different qualities. The fish are associated with a lot of meanings and symbolism that many people find to be relatable. Koi tattoo meanings. It is also seen as re-birth, new start or beginning, more so after a divorce or bereavement signaling a new chapter in a strong-willed person’s life. In terms of symbols that make you think of Japanese culture, there aren’t many stronger than the koi fish. If you’d like a custom quote on your tattoo idea, please let us know a little about the piece and we’ll try to give you a good idea on what it will cost. In general, these focus on the koi’s ability to swim upstream and even up waterfalls – leading to associations with courage, ambition, and perseverance. The koi fish tattoos can be depicted going upstream, representing a struggle, battle, or the ability to battle on despite the obstacles. One popular traditional Japanese tattoo motif is the form of koi carp. KNOW YOUR KOI. Article by Cardthartic. These imagery is traditional to tattooing practices in Japanese culture that have existed for centuries and is often seen in ink paintings as well. This trait of bravery and fearlessness is compared to the samurai warriors. If you have been considering getting a tattoo that involves a koi fish, take the time first to learn the meaning associated with them. When a tattooer has a koi with lotus flower the meaning gets doubled, as both of these symbols have huge admiration in Japanese society. It can symbolize bravery, romance, strength, power, luck, and friendship. 2. It is the beauty and charm of the koi fish that has made it a popular symbol for family, especially in Japan. They are also known to represent good luck and bravery. Koi and Carp . Because of the long life span of the koi fish, they are proven to be fighters and prosperous. The lotus is a very popular tattoo. THE WILD TATTOO. The koi who succeeds in reaching the top is turned into a golden dragon by the Gods as a reward for its perseverance. The ancient Japanese legend says Koi fish was able to climb up the waterfalls even despite strong currents aspiring to become a dragon. From seeing these in paintings to little ponds around Asian inspired restaurants and other destinations, the koi fish is likely one of the most recognizable symbols of Japanese culture. Kunst-tattoo.. Gemerkt von tattoodaze.com. A koi fish tattoo meaning has several variants, but it usually goes back to its oriental or Japanese origins. According to most tattoo artists, koi fish represent strength, prosperity, determination, independence, perseverance, and good luck, among other things. Blue koi fish: These typically represent a masculine energy, but can also mean acceptance of past problems or obstacles in life. Color meaning in koi tattoos will often determine the wearer’s personal symbolism. We hope you enjoy this website. Swimming upstream, against the current also leads many to associate them with independence and non-conformity. But before you schedule an appointment with a tattoo artist to get one, it’s first best to learn all that you can about the koi fish’s meaning and history. Even today, on Children’s Day in Japan, tubular flags with a koi on it are raised, in which each fish resembles a family member. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Site Suspended - This site has stepped out for a bit . If you are considering a koi fish tattoo, you might want to be more particular to its direction to make sure that it would really suit you. The hibiscus represents devotion and loyalty. A koi fish tattoo with running water symbolizes courage, the ability to attain goals and to overcome life’s difficulties. Red koi often sport white stripes with or without spots of black. A dragon is also a representation of power and ferocity, along with mystery and aura. Hence, sporting a koi fish tattoo can mean being in love and not caring about the opinion of others. Therefore, this image is a representation of transitioning in life. Meanings associated with koi fish tattoos Body placement can also have an impact. Japanese Tattoo Koi Fish Meaning . Koi Fish & Flower Tattoos. Koi fish tattoo with a flower tattoo has proven to be a perfect duo. This should tell you how important the image of the koi is in Japanese culture and why so many get this tattoo. Fishes are also known to bring fortune and knowledge and some religions have also considered them as a symbol of faith and courage. Make sure you are looking for a Japanese tattoo artist before you go into your local shop. Koi fish might seem simple, but it carries plenty of meaning especially for those people who decide to get it as a part of a bigger back or sleeve tattoo, or even if you only want it as an individual tattoo. Because of this legend, koi fish tattoos often symbolize a person’s goals and aspirations to better themselves. Ensuring that the fish’s scales are bred to appear this way is extremely difficult and so it has become a symbol of individuality and uniqueness. Koi FIsh Tattoo Meaning. 79 Koi Fish Tattoos Ideas // November, 2020. yellow koi fish tattoo design half sleeve . A black koi stands for the father, flame red for the mother, blue and white koi for the boy and pink and red for the girl. Tattoos are not something that you want to go for impulsively. It also signifies purity. Koi fish are a legendary fish in Japanese culture. Share To : In Japanese, ‘koi’ translates to ‘carp’ or carp fish. Also, a simple koi fish in water has its own meaning. Koi Fish Tattoos Meanings. It is rare to find and therefore the tattoo is considered very lucky. The symbolism of a koi fish tattoo can also change based on what symbols they’re surrounded by. Koi fish tattoos' meanings can vary for different people. Black koi with streaks of white is known as the “tattooed dragon” koi and is a symbol of the mythological dragon as well as traditional ink paintings. The scales are most often a blend of red, white, and black with spots and streaks of each color more dominant on different varieties of the fish. There is an ancient Japanese legend that koi fish become dragons. The koi is the Japanese word for carp fish. If you see any large scale Japanese tattoos in your life, you are bound to see the koi fish incorporated into the image in some way. A koi fish tattoo is a great option for someone who wants to depict the following personal ideals; you’ve overcome major adversity, you are a fighter, you are independent or brave, you never give up or you consider yourself lucky. However, just because the word carries a simple meaning doesn’t necessarily mean that koi fish do not possess any form of symbolism. It grows in the muddy pond but grows into a beautiful flower. …that in Japanese, koi means romantic love, and the koi fish also symbolizes independence or liberty. Specifically, a school of koi fish is said to have swam up the Yellow River. Koi fish tattoos look great on both men and women. Lotus flowers or cherry blossoms are sometimes included to create a fuller piece but also to introduce more traditional symbols. More information... People also … Koi means carp. Of course, the tattoos that we see today are very much different from the traditional ones. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. Also, a simple koi fish in water has its own meaning. Shades of blue can range from metallic to a bright, sky blue. Koi Fish Tattoos Meaning. There are a variety of meanings for koi fish tattoos which can vary based on the color of the fish. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Popularly, koi fish tattoos are associated with good luck and perseverance, the basic qualities required for a successful life. The dragon koi has special meaning in Japanese culture. It also represents bravery and power. According to Japanese culture, the black koi fish represents the men in the family. It depicts male strength. Inside Message: From koi fish to dragon, congratulations on scaling your own waterfall! In other cases, the koi swimming downstream can represent the season of fall, and the koi swimming upstream can represent the spring. In many cases, the images associated with the koi or the colors of the koi fish will tell another story about what the koi fish tattoo means. Like we spoke of earlier, the struggle and determination of the koi to swim up river to morph into a dragon tells us a story of aspiring to be better. A mere fish, turning into something so mighty and powerful like a dragon signifies great determination and courage and this is what the koi tattoo also symbolizes. When the fish is depicted to be swimming upstream, it can symbolize that the person who has got the tattoo, is still struggling with his problem. koi fish tattoo meaning The koi fish is a symbol with extremely deep meaning for those who choose it as part of their body art. Legend and General Meaning. Koi fish tattoos are believed to bring good luck and stand for strong will and determination. Other meanings can be added based on the colours and styles of … The story of koi fish swimming upstream against the current of water to reach the top of the dragon gate waterfall, can be interpreted as the struggle against the odds of life to reach the desired goal. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Here is what some of them mean. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. With an unlimited choice in tattoo designs today, finding the right one can seem quite difficult. Koi are generally included in larger tattoo pieces that follow traditional Japanese designs. Koi are a symbol of prosperity as well because of their long lifespan. Examples of this are: Koi in this color generally represent love and are also considered to be energetic and are considered one of the strongest koi tattoos. It also represents the belief that all things in life are connected (hence the circular movement). The koi fish is a symbol with extremely deep meaning for those who choose it as part of their body art. The half koi and dragon tattoo are symbolic of the struggle of the koi fish as it climes the yellow river against the current. The red koi is the strongest as it represents its incredible ability to swim against the water current. This courage and strength is very appealing to anyone looking to showcase a colorful yet powerful tattoo design. In larger pieces, the koi are tattooed along with serpent-like dragons or terrible demons to represent the myth of the koi who is transformed into a dragon. Before you make the next big step in your tattoo, take the time to learn what a koi tattoo will mean. An ancient Chinese myth states that a koi swam upstream and climbed the falls to a point called ‘The Dragon Gate’ after which it transformed into a dragon. Koi fish are said to symbolize bravery because when they are taken from the water, they do not thrash or fight, but simply accept what is being done to them. Our site includes quite a bit of content, so if you're having an issue finding what you're looking for, go on ahead and use that search feature there!