Koi Fish Tattoos are derived from real Koi fishes that have a fascinating history and mythology. Both sides of the globe acknowledged their hybridization, which is a very delicate matter. If you release them into the wild, they will revert to their regular gray coloring within several generations. An additional piece of trivia, the breeding of Koi, led to the development of the common goldfish.

Although China was the first on the eastern part of the globe to start working with this carp, Japan introduced them to the world. The word Koi in Japanese translates to carp.

Traditionally people bred different color Koi fishes for beauty. As in all things, different colors symbolize different things. The same applies to Koi Fish Tattoos. Some agree with this, and others do not. It’s your choice.

 

History of Koi Fish

Throughout the centuries, koi fish have been thought to represent good luck and high aspirations. According to one Japanese legend, if a koi fish could successfully climb a waterfall, it would be transformed into a dragon. For this reason, Koi has become associated with upward mobility and overcoming obstacles.

However, that is only one story behind the meaning of Koi. In the Buddhist religion, koi fish represents courage and determination. In other traditions, they represent family and the essence of life.

No matter which interpretation you follow, it is clear that koi fish are significant to many cultures. They encompass a wide range of characteristics that people strive to achieve. For this reason, koi fish tattoos are very popular with people who desire good fortune and the strength to overcome obstacles. A koi fish tattoo represents a resolve to lead a prosperous future.

Types of Koi Fish Tattoos and Their Meanings

Dragon Koi Fish

Dragon Koi fishes tell a story. Many people like to wear this as a sleeve for this reason. The legend says that a koi had the strength and courage to climb a particular waterfall. When the Koi reached the top exhausted, yet having reached its goal, it transformed into a dragon!

A dragon koi tattoo incorporates an Asian dragon and a koi fish. The dragon represents strength, power, and ferocity, while the koi embodies perseverance and strength of will.

Yin Yang Koi Fish Tattoo

Yin Yang Koi fish tattoo designs are trendy for many reasons. First, they complement Japanese philosophy, and they pay tribute to a beloved fish. When looking at images of Koi fishes, you will notice that two fishes are used to form a circle. The forming of an exact circle is significant to any Yin Yang tattoos, for the circle itself is symbolic. Many people also refer to this tattoo as the Black and White Koi Fish Tattoos.

Black Koi Fish

In Japan, black Koi fish tattoos are reserved exclusively for the men in the family. However, there is a lot of discussion about the colors of Koi and their meaning. For instance, if you look at Yin and Yang Tattoos, you’ll notice the inclusions of a black Koi. It doesn’t represent the father, but the masculine side contains some feminine qualities.

Blue Koi Fish

Blue Koi Fish Tattoos are reserved for the son in a Japanese family. However, just like the Black Koi fishes, they have been westernized and can take on other meanings. The electric blues in these tattoos are stunning. Blue represents calmness, tranquility, and peace.

Red Koi Fish

Red Koi fish tattoos are reserved for the mother of a Japanese family. Pink Koi fish tattoos are for the daughters. However, these colors in the western world have a different meaning and can be used to color Koi tattoos as you choose.

Pisces Koi Tattoos

Pisces Koi tattoos are worn by those born under the astrological sign of Pisces, which the fish represent. The Pisces are known for their ability to get along with just about anyone. A Koi in the color that represents Pisces along with the astrological symbol would make an excellent design.

Tribal Koi Tattoos

Tribal Koi fish tattoo designs lean toward the masculine side unless you decided to use color in your Koi. If presented in traditional black on a female and you want a feminine look, use other symbols that identify with your female side.

Lotus Flower and Koi Fish

Lotus flower and Koi fish are full of symbolic meaning and beauty. The lotus flower is typically seen in pink, white or blue, and symbolizes purity, beauty, and rebirth. Couple that with the strength and courage of the Koi, add some color for additional meaning.

Koi Fish Tattoos for Women

Koi-fish tattoos for women would want to stay away from black, traditionally held for the masculine side. If you gravitate to your feminine side, stay with the red, pink, golden, and flower and Koi fish tattoo designs. Stand-alone Koi fish tattoos are trendy among women. They symbolize the triumph and courage you mustered up to make it through a particularly challenging time in your life.

Koi Fish With Flowers

Coloring of Koi Fish Tattoos

We’ve talked quite a bit about coloring above, but a few more words. Golden Koi Fish Tattoos are extremely popular. They were the first colored Koi, and all metal-colored Koi fishes represent wealth and prosperity. Don’t be afraid to mix the colors of your Koi. Use several colors to represent all of the traits of your personality or the members of your family.

Placement

There are two essential things to consider: the Koi fish’s placement and the tattoo placement on your body. Koi fishes are compared to Salmons in their tenacity when it comes to swimming upstream. Many people like to illustrate that in their tattoos. Also, many men want to display the Koi swimming up the waterfall to tell the story of the Koi becoming a dragon.

Koi-fish tattoos can fit anywhere, depending on the size, design, and budget. Unlike some tattoos, they look beautiful, stunning, masculine, and feminine in any size or placement.

Koi Fish Tattoo Designs and Ideas

Koi fish tattoos come in many shapes, sizes, and colors. Here are some beautiful examples.