Probably surprising to many westerners is the very large amount of ancient myths that surround these beautiful fish in the orient, and their elevated status there. The koi fish is more than just a colorful and collectible fish, it is also one of the most popular and beautiful story, myth, tale and tattoo themes, a beauty which belies its symbolic meaning. Although Chinese in origin, the koi is now widely celebrated in Japan, particularly for its manly qualities. It is said to climb waterfalls bravely, and, if caught it lies upon the cutting board awaiting the knife without a quiver, not unlike the warrior facing the sword.One theme dates back to ancient China, where a legend tells of how any koi that succeeded in climbing the falls at a point called “Dragon Gate” on “Yellow River” would be transformed into a dragon. Based on that legend, it became a symbol of worldly aspiration and advancement. Eventually, the stoic fish came to be associated with so many masculine and positive qualities that it was appropriated for the annual “Boys day festival” in Japan where even today colorful, streaming koi flags are traditionally displayed for each son in the family. In tattoo imagery, especially in combination with flowing water, it symbolizes much the same courage, control, and the ability to achieve goals with an understanding of life’s trials”.
Not all koi fish are headed for dragon gate, and not all koi are stoic, there are other stories. Another popular story is of a giant koi fish that is killing off the fishermen of a small village, only to be killed by a boy of the village making the boy a hero.
Generally known in the west as the brightly colored fish that are common in public ponds and fountains, Koi fish can be found in colors that include white, gold, yellow, orange, off-white blue and red, their can also be calico-colored versions in many variations, particularly beautiful specimens have been known to fetch prices in excess of half-a-million dollars from private collectors who specialize in their breeding and showing. The collectible, prized, specially bred koi fish are generally “not” the koi fish of the irezumi tattoo.