Koi Fish on a Headstone: Meaning

Koi glide through garden ponds in brilliant orange, white and gold. In Chinese and Japanese tradition they stand for perseverance and good fortune — a colourful, hopeful memorial symbol.

What it means

The Dragon Gate

A Chinese legend tells of koi swimming up the Yellow River against the current. Those brave enough to leap the waterfall at the Dragon Gate were transformed into dragons. The story made koi a symbol of perseverance and achievement. In Japan, carp streamers (koinobori) fly on Children's Day, May 5, wishing children strength and success.

Design ideas

• Two koi circling in a yin-yang pattern — see yin yang meaning.
• Koi swimming upstream with waves.
• Colour-filled orange and gold koi on black granite.
• A koi pond with lotus — see lotus meaning.

Who it suits

Families of Japanese, Chinese or Vietnamese heritage, people who overcame great obstacles, couples (with a pair of koi), and pond and garden lovers. See Japanese headstone traditions.

A pair for a couple

Two koi circling each other form a natural yin-yang shape and symbolise a harmonious marriage. It's a lovely design for a companion headstone.

Colour on black granite

Koi really come alive with orange, red and gold colour-fill on black granite. Ask your monument company for samples and how long outdoor colour lasts.

Epitaphs to pair

• Against every current.
• Strength and good fortune.
• Swimming together forever.
• Through the Dragon Gate.

Key Takeaways

• Koi mean perseverance, courage and good fortune.
• The Dragon Gate legend tells of koi becoming dragons.
• A pair of koi suits a couple.
• Colour-fill brings koi to life.

Next Step

See lotus meaning and bamboo meaning.