Aqueous ink for ink jet recording which contains at least a water-insoluble coloring matter, water and a resin as main components and which takes the form of an emulsion, the coloring matter being represented by formula (1) The coloring matter for ink jet recording of the invention is excellent in water resistance in particular and also excellent in light resistance and compatibility with the resin. Thus, it is suited for ink jet recording. Further, the aqueous ink for ink jet recording of the invention which is produced using the coloring matter is excellent in light resistance and storage stability. Especially, when it is used as ink for ink jet recording system, the use of the ink composition can provide excellent aqueous ink that enables formation of a high-quality image without blotting and a recorded image having an excellent water resistance.