Asians hold a special fondness and belief in auspicious elements. These elements are believed to bring positivity to various aspects of life.
Koi fish, also known as Nishikigoi in Japan, is a colored variety of carp (Cyprinus carpio). Nishikigoi is known as the “swimming jewel”.
Koi is a freshwater fish that widely lives in rivers, ponds, and marshes throughout Japan. It is an omnivorous fish and eats anything found in the water.
Koi first appeared in China about 2,500 years ago and came to Japan many centuries later. Koi fish was first introduced in the early 19th century as a source of food.
It was only after some period of time that people started to cultivate and breed fish to turn into pets.
Koi fish have a variety of colors. Oftentimes, these fish have mixed patterns and you would rarely see the exact same pattern on another fish.
The most common mixture of colors includes red, white, and black. If you’re lucky, you might be able to spot a yellow koi.
The price of koi can vary due to many factors, such as size, pattern, origin, and breed. The most expensive koi ever sold at an auction was for 203,000,000 Yen (US$1.8 million) in Japan at the 2017 All Japan Koi Show.
Here are five reasons why Asians still love Koi fish.
1. Feng shui.
Feng shui is an ancient Chinese art and method of arranging objects and space in an environment to achieve balance and harmony. It has been rooted in early Taoism but is still heavily believed today.
Feng shui directly translates to as “wind and water”.
As a symbol of positivity, Koi fish are often associated with the Water element and are believed to bring balance and positive energy to spaces, particularly in water gardens and ponds.
2. Determination and perseverance.
Koi fish are known for their tenacity and ability to swim against strong currents. They are often seen as a symbol of determination, persistence, and the ability to overcome obstacles in the face of adversity.
The legend of Koi fish swimming upstream to transform into a dragon is a powerful representation of this quality.
In the legendary tale, a huge school of golden Koi swimming upstream the Yellow River in China. They had to swim against the heavy currents of the river. Once they reached a waterfall at the end of the river, many of the fish failed and turned back.
The remaining Koi fish were persistent. They leapt from the depths of the river and attempted to reach the top of the waterfall.
Their efforts caught the attention of local demons, who mocked their failure and made the waterfall taller out of malice.
After a hundred years of jumping, one Koi finally reached the top of the waterfall. The Gods recognized the Koi for its perseverance and determination. As a reward, the Gods turned it into a golden dragon — the image of power and strength.
3. Fortune and good luck.
In many Asian cultures, particularly in Japan, Koi fish are associated with good luck and prosperity. They are often regarded as bringers of wealth and success.
Displaying images or sculptures of Koi fish is believed to invite positive energy and good fortune.
This is also closely tied to the number of Koi fish present. It is called the ‘lucky number’. For fortune, the number eight is the most auspicious number.
There are various elements to consider when placing Koi fish, such as the location of placement. Will it be in a tank or a pond? The size of the fish tank matters too.
4. Transformation and rebirth.
The legend of the Koi fish that transforms into a dragon represents a transformation into a new life.
It signifies the rebirth of an individual and encourages personal growth.
It is an encouragement to achieve a higher state of being.
5. Family and unity.
Koi fish are known for their strong social bonds. These fish often swim together in groups. This represents a symbol of family and unity.
In this context, Koi can represent harmonious family relationships and work together as a cohesive unit.
When families keep koi as pets, the underlying meaning behind the fish is a harmonious bond in the family.
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