Koi is a Japanese word for Carp. Japanese people have, for years, used Koi fish tattoo designs as a cultural symbol for overcoming adversity. Stories are told of how they climb waterfalls that have strong currents. It is said Koi was determined to reach the top of the waterfall so it persevered and succeeded. This tattoo may be designed in different colors from the original black and white which is the color for Ying-Yang to any other color of your choosing. The designs will usually have elegant curves and depictions of the bright scales of the koi which is a gentle yet agile fish.