Japanese tattoo meanings and symbolism

Just looking for a little insight into the meanings of some of the symbols used in traditional Japanese tattooing..I've just completed a shoulder fill of swirling wind/clouds with cherry blossoms (it was done around an old school rose I had already). I was so impressed with the look that I want to continue it into my chest area and possibly to the back shoulder blade to "complete the look". Now, I'm thinking of course a koi, with the spalshing water ect..from what I know they symbolize perserverence as well as good fortune. I'm so am thinking about a dragon but have also seen koi morphing into dragons but don't know what that symbolizes.. Thanks

A legend tells of how any koi that succeeded in climbing the falls at a point called Dragon Gate (on the Yellow River) would be transformed into a dragon. Based on that legend, it became a symbol of worldly aspiration and advancement and perserverance. Koi in Vintage Japanese Tkimono and Obi The fish most commonly used for Japanese decorative textile purposes is the Koi or carp. Because these fish had to leap in treacherous waters to spawn, they were chosen as symbols of vigor and endurance. Celebratios with koi banners floating gracefully against the sky on bamboo poles are common. All tattoo designs sold on our site come with line drawings (stencils) which a tattooist needs to apply the tattoo to your skin. Koi Fish Facts While the Japanese have rightfully earned their reputation as the planet's koi-craziest people, the Chinese were the first to breed koi (Cyprinus carpio) and their close relatives, goldfish (Carassius auratus), in the 1300s. In fact, the word "koi" is of Chinese origin; the Japanese, who started breeding colorful carp in only 1800 or so, call the fish nishikigoi. (Koi first became popular in the United States after World War II.)

Cactus....Can you recommend any books that would be a good resourse on asian art (e.i, that has become popular in tattooing) to be used for design ideas along with having a good wealth of "this is what it means"....Thanks.....J

Well, I've sorta found that you have a better chance of finding the meaning of a tattoo not by looking it up as a tattoo, but four example if you want to know what the god "Shiva" is all about, look up "Hindu God Shiva". That way you don't get any tattoo slants, and you get the true meanings usually. I wish I could pinpoint a really good book, but I just don't know one... most of the best info I get seems to come from looking up something like "legend of Koi", or "Stories about Japanese Demons".... I'm kinda ashamed. I'll try to look for a good book to recommend!!

Well, I've sorta found that you have a better chance of finding the meaning of a tattoo not by looking it up as a tattoo, but four example if you want to know what the god "Shiva" is all about, look up "Hindu God Shiva". That way you don't get any tattoo slants, and you get the true meanings usually. I wish I could pinpoint a really good book, but I just don't know one... most of the best info I get seems to come from looking up something like "legend of Koi", or "Stories about Japanese Demons".... I'm kinda ashamed. I'll try to look for a good book to recommend!!

Thanks for the good start....No need to feel ashamed! Hell, that's more than what I was working with! :)