Day 3 in Niigata

Today I set off in search of a few different koi, like Kumonryu, Kujaku, Asagi and Doitsu Ochiba Shigure.

I went to Hiroi to speak to him about selecting tosai, but the ponds available for selection were very limited and I decided I couldn't get one box at the price I was given.

From there I felt maybe trying a new breeder might be worth it, but after making a few visits, despite what the breeder book says, they didn't have 'HIGH QUALITY'. This is often the case. The breeder book has many uses, but I don't think it is so helpful in finding new koi outlets. I think word of mouth and stopping at new fish houses is far more productive.

Miyatora had the selection of varieties, I saw several hundred Kumonryu but I doubt they will be priced for selection, and they are rather small.

At this point, I had only bought some Kokugyo banners for decoration in the fish house, but I did not consider the day a waste. I had been given a price on a few special koi, and found some interesting koi that will be worth checking out at Nisai.

I called in at Niigata Nishikigoi Direct. After not finding the exact koi I wanted at Kaneko's own facility, I had a feeling I might be in luck. The koi have been fed heavily today, so I will make my selections tomorrow. I spent around 2 hours talking to Oomo san about the kind of koi I am looking for and my aim for the next couple of years. We spoke about the koi industry in the UK and how the different types of practice alter the business relationship in Japan. Oomo san was surprised about the BKKS National date, and appreciated discussing the effect on trade, koi and the koi club itself.

At NND, there are some very nice koi that I have my eye on, and will be trying very hard to buy them. I do hope I have some fantastic pictures for you tomorrow evening!