The Koi fish symbolises many important cultural aspects and is integral to Japan’s national identity. The most iconic of Koi fish; the Tancho, has a pure white body with a red spot on their head, symbolic of the Japanese flag.  

These beautiful fish serve as a reminder of the foundations of a strong and “whole” person in Japan. Koi fish are always moving upstream in blazing colours, never ceasing to move and ebb with the flow of the water. When we view such vivid colours, as well as their collective perseverance, we are reminded of the Japanese belief in remaining strong when faced with adversity.

Koi fish work together, using their wisdom and loyalty to achieve things beyond what only one Koi could do. Together they can climb waterfalls, or even become dragons. 「鯉のぼり」reflects this belief of becoming a dragon, in which young boys aspire to become a dragon (a good man) like the Koi fish. 

This fondness for Koi has led to Koi being bred in the brilliant colours we can see today. The next time we are lucky enough to see these striking fish in Japan, I hope we can remember to persevere.