Motif
Fish tattoos in Japan
Fish tattoos are a collection of works depicting fish such as koi, goldfish, and sharks. On tattooers.jp, works depicting aquatic creatures such as octopuses, whales, and dolphins are also included in this category. You can find compositions combining them with waves, like in Japanese traditional (wabori) koi, and designs that utilize the swaying movement of their tail fins.
265 works on tattooers.jp
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Artists with the most fish work
- Manabu ShinshuNagano · 11 works
- shikoTokyo · 9 works
- SadieOkinawa · 9 works
- ToM【DRAGON HEART TATTOO】Kanagawa · 7 works
- HoriakiShizuoka · 7 works
- OPALTokyo · 7 works
- MIYOAichi · 6 works
- HoriakiChiba · 6 works
Questions
What legends are associated with koi tattoos?
It is said that koi tattoos are often chosen to represent career advancement and success, stemming from the legend of "Tōryūmon" (Dragon Gate), where a koi that successfully climbs a waterfall transforms into a dragon. In Japanese traditional (wabori), you can see compositions of koi climbing waterfalls or waves.
What styles are fish tattoos done in?
Koi are often depicted in Japanese traditional (wabori) style, combined with waves or cherry blossoms, while goldfish can be seen in colorful works or watercolor-like expressions. Sharks and octopuses are also sometimes depicted in Old School or Blackwork styles.
Should I decide on the swimming direction?
The impression changes depending on whether it's depicted swimming upwards or downwards, or which way it faces on the body, so deciding this beforehand will help the consultation proceed smoothly. In Japanese traditional (wabori) koi, the direction can also carry symbolic meaning. Visiting Japan? Send us your idea and dates through our booking form, and we'll match you with an artist whose work fits.