What is Nishiki Koi ?
Living Jewels" Rooted in Heritage & World-Class Artistry
Often revered as "living jewels," Nishikigoi originated in Edo-period Japan when color mutations naturally emerged among farm carp. Over generations, master breeders (Koishi) refined sophisticated crossbreeding techniques and cultivated an extraordinary eye for selection to preserve and elevate this living art. Following their historic debut at the San Francisco Panama-Pacific International Exposition, Nishikigoi captured the world’s imagination, establishing a vibrant global community of passionate collectors.
About Koi Plus Travel Concierge
Today, Nishikigoi breeding remains an exclusive, close-knit industry where entrance to authentic breeding facilities is strictly limited.
Spearheaded by miit, inc., Koi Plus Travel Concierge brings together premier Nishikigoi industry experts and fully licensed Japanese travel agencies. Through this unique alliance and our deep local trust, we hold direct, privileged connections with Japan's top master breeders—unlocking seamless, access to the normally closed world of Nishikigoi and granting our clients unprecedented, behind-the-scenes encounters with these extraordinary living assets.
Nishiki Koi Hobbysts
For those looking to learn Nishikigoi culture directly from master breeders, through private lectures and hands-on encounters.
Koi dealers
On-the-ground support for dealers bringing clients to Japan — accompanying visits and arranging sightseeing around them.
Families of Koi Hobbysts
For families joining a hobbyist's trip, sightseeing and cultural experiences that deepen everyone's appreciation of Nishikigoi.
Authentic Experience
by Koi Plus Travel Concierge
We can provide access to the inside of Nishiki Koi Culture. Thanks to cooperation with Koi breeders, you will immerse yourself into Nishiki Koi World.
.jpeg)
Koi farm visit and Observe Koi masters' work
In partnership with Matsu-no-suke, Grand Champion breeder at the All Japan Nishikigoi Show, and masters with 50+ years of experience, we deliver trusted, authentic access to Japan's finest koi farms.
Private Welcome & Tour by Koi breeders in their farm and networking
Koi breeders are willing to accept your private group to their farm and offices. Then, they will guide inside of Koi farms and observe their beautiful Nishiki Koi.
Private Workshop of Nishiki Koi with the breeders
General Koi breeders never ever provide workshops for visitors because it is very risky to accept visitors who don't know Koi well. But our Koi breeders are ready for your joining in authentic workshop where you can do Koi selection and netting in the pond.
Our Koi breeders
Deep respect to Koi masters
Mr Toshiaki Sakai
Yamamatsu Koi Farm
Born and raised in Yamakoshi, Niigata—the historical birthplace of Nishikigoi—Toshiyuki Sakai is a revered master breeder carrying forward generations of authentic koi lineage. In an era where recent global demand has driven many breeders toward producing oversized fish for short-term commercial gain, Sakai-san takes a principled, visionary path. Born and raised in Yamakoshi, Niigata—the historical birthplace of Nishikigoi—Toshiyuki Sakai is a revered master breeder carrying forward generations of authentic koi lineage. In an era where recent global demand has driven many breeders toward producing oversized fish for short-term commercial gain, Sakai-san takes a principled, visionary path. Deeply dedicated to the essence of the craft, he specializes exclusively in Kohaku—the iconic red-and-white variety widely celebrated as the true symbol and crown jewel of Nishikigoi culture. Sakai-san focuses unyieldingly on fundamental genetic quality, structural elegance, and long-term vitality, ensuring that his fish thrive for decades rather than mere years. Beyond cultivating world-class specimens, he is intensely committed to mentoring the next generation of breeders, safeguarding the living heritage and future of Japan's Nishikigoi culture.
Mr Toshikiyuki Sakai
Yamamatsu Koi Farm
A legendary figure in the Nishikigoi world, Toshiaki Sakai has earned the industry’s ultimate honor by winning the prestigious All Japan Koi Show World Championship twice—a testament to his unparalleled mastery of the craft. After stepping away from the industry at the pinnacle of his career, his deep passion for sharing the wonder of Nishikigoi with the global community called him back to this world. Over the age of 80, Sakai-san undertook an extraordinary journey, rebuilding his breeding grounds entirely from scratch. His legendary intuition and sharp eye for selecting young koi destined to become future world-class specimens (Mekiki) remain completely intact. Driven by an unyielding spirit, he is once again pursuing the world championship title while passionately dedicating his lifetime of expertise to elevating Nishikigoi culture across the globe.
