Tattoo Ideas: Koi Fish Tattoo Designs, Gallery, Ideas and Pics

Many westerns do not know this and the general public in the US is widley unaware of how sought after a koi fish can be. Koi fish are very popular among most Asian coutnries. There are a ton of myths and famous stories relating the power of the Koi ish through Japan, China and other Asian countries.

The Koi (Japanese for Carp) fish has been most widley accepted and revered in Japan. You might have even noticed this before in traditional Japanese tattoo art. More recently here inthe US many people are starting to really align themselves with the symbolism and meaning of the koi fish tattoo and these are become popular.

If you want to know more about koi fish tattoo and tattoo designs then read on!

he koi or carp fish was orginally was part of Chinese myth, lore and legend. In fact one of the earliest works in Chinese history recounts the wonderfulact of a group of Koi fish struggeling up a watterfall known as Dragon Gate falls. One they got to the top they became poweful dragons.

The koi have therefore always been associated with strength, determination and power! The Japanese have picked up on this and the koi fish as a symbol became a very important and central figure to the Japanese.

They believe that koi fish can often be found trying to swim back up stream or even up a waterfall which is a glourious display of determination and going against all odds. They also believe that a koi fish is very brave because when put on the chopping block to be hacked up into dinner it is said they don't quiver and shake like other fish but instead look very proud and strong. (Since I have killed, caught or gutted any carp fish before I can't really say). Therefore within Japan the Koi fish is often associated with the Samurai who is also supposed to accept his fate and life and death stoically! In fact the koi fish is probably the one best sybmol or animal that can be used to represent everything a Samurai should be. This has lead to the wide use of Koi Fish Banners being flown during the annual celebrationf or boys called "Boys Day".

One can also see koi fish in almost every temple and shrine fountain throughout Japan. Koi fish are often collected by wealthy individuals an a good quaility and well colored koi fish can bring in a sum of up to a half million dollars!

Their love for the Koi fish has lead many Japanese tattoo artist to incorporate koi fish into their designs. Traditional Japanese tattoo art is full of full back images of koi fish going back up against stream and making their own way!

So having established that koi fish are very popular animals and very popular tattoo designs throughout Japan many westerns wonder so what is the symbolism and meaning behind a koi fish tattoo for me? Well as with any tattoo the meaning and significance behind it is somewhat individual and you can ascribe to any tattoo whatever meaning you want to.

However it is widley accepted as a symbol of strength and power especially in adversity. So if you are looking for some symbol of power or strentgh then a beautiful koi tattoo with a water background might just be for you.

There are probably still a few things you are wondering about if you are seriously contemplating akoi fish tattoo.

Placement - THere ar a vareity of places that koi fish tattoo can go on your body. Typically they are rectangular tall shapes and therefore are bes suited for forearms, shoulders, calf muscles or a full back piece if you are ready for that much commitment.

Additions- Along with the koi fish tattoo you can always put some water in the background that splashes aroudn the fish. Also Cherry blossom flower are very traditional and go well with a Japanese themed tattoo.

Cost- The cost will vary greatly depending on the artist, the size of the design, additions and if you want the work custom designed or you are going to use flash. They typically run between $50 to $250 dollars.

Time - The amount of time you will need to complete the tatto will also vary on your design and the skill of your artist. However it can take a three or so hour long sittings to get the full piece done.