The Rich History of Japanese Tattoo Designs

The koi have long been a part of the Japanese life. At almost every temple and sacred place there is a small koi pond. The koi also know as Carp fish is known throughout China and Japan. Originally the story came from Buddhist teachings in Chine where it was believed the koi fish would swim upstream and go against the current and even up a waterfall. The myth states that any koi fish that could swim up the Yellow river and up the waterfall at the mythical place called Dragon Gate would then turn into a dragon. Therefore in China the koi fish would stand for strength and power and advancement. This same idealism was adopted throughout Japan. It was adopted in Japan to such a degree that it has become a part of their daily life and ritual. In fact large flags of koi fish are flown on Boy's Day to celebrate the strength, energy and power that boys should posses