vivalavida asked:
hi there, I have decided on getting a koi tattoo. does anyone know what the meaning is of whether the fish swims upstream, or downstream. I heard that upstream means love? Not 100% sure though. so looking for a bit more info if possible. Thanks a lot
hi there, I have decided on getting a koi tattoo. does anyone know what the meaning is of whether the fish swims upstream, or downstream. I heard that upstream means love? Not 100% sure though. so looking for a bit more info if possible. Thanks a lot








Koi–Also known as Japanese Carp is a bright golden, orange and white fish. In Japanese tattooing it is one of the most discernible and popular styles. It has many meanings as is it known for its ability to climb waterfalls and as such symbolizes courage over adversity.
Hope this helped you.
According to Japanese legend, if a koi succeeded in climbing the falls at a point called Dragon Gate on the Yellow River, it would be transformed into a dragon. Based on that legend, it became a symbol of worldly aspiration and advancement.
Because of its strength and determination to overcome obstacles, it stands for courage and the ability to attain high goals.
In tattoo imagery, especially combination with flowing water, the koi symbolizes courage, achievement, and overcoming life’s obstacles and difficulties.
Supposed to mean happy family life, prosperity, and the like. You’ll hear a million different things from a million different people. To me, it means I’ve got a carp on my chest. I got it back in the eighties, and I liked it then, and I still like it now! My mom named him Charlie. Helluva deal.
My Vietnamese tattoo artist told me it means luck.