Tattoo is an art. It is symbolism. It is representation.

For Japanese, one of the most popular kinds is the koi fish sleeve tattoos. It has a deep symbolic meaning for Japanese. Japan has been expressing their love for arts through tattoos for a very long time now and this kind of tattoo is one of the most popular in the country.

Koi fish is said to swim upstream while fighting against the current of the water. After that, this fish will have to pass through the dragon gate and become a dragon itself. Because of this myth, koi fish has become a traditional symbol for power, strength and ability to go against all the challenges in life and eventually succeeding and achieving spirituality.

Why so popular?

Koi sleeve tattoos are very popular not only for Japanese but also for other people who have come to appreciate Japanese arts. The reason for this is because the koi has a long rectangular shape making it fit perfectly on an arm. The arm makes a great canvas for this design. Also, because of the biceps in the arm, the fish seems to be naturally moving together with your arm's motion. A koi fish given life and swimming in the waters - this is the illusion that the combination of the design and the location makes for those who get to glance at it.

Before you decide on the design of the koi fish, consider first the size of the sleeve tattoo that you want. Whether it is a full, half or quarter sleeves, you have to first discuss it with your artist.