# Carp

鯉 koi

![Carp](https://www.furoshiki.com/swatches/koi.svg)

In legend, a carp that swims up a waterfall becomes a dragon, so carp stand for perseverance and success; flown for Boys' Day and Children's Day.

Chinese Dragon Gate legend; koinobori from the Edo period

The motif rests on a Chinese legend from the Han period: a carp that swims up the waterfall at the Dragon Gate on the Yellow River becomes a dragon. In Edo-period Japan samurai households flew crested banners for the Boys' Festival (Tango no sekku), and carp streamers (koinobori) appeared in Edo by the 18th century, wishing sons strength and success. Tea masters prized Chinese damask with carp in waves (ariso).

Since 1948 May 5 is Children's Day, and many families fly a carp for each child.

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Source: https://www.furoshiki.com/patterns/koi/