Nagaoka Koi Show

Over the years, the Nagaoka Koi Show has grown in its international appeal, attracting breeders and collectors from Europe, the Americas, and other parts of Asia. It’s not uncommon for high-profile koi enthusiasts to visit from abroad, seeking to purchase champion koi to bring home, while also gaining knowledge on breeding and maintenance techniques from the Japanese masters.
This international interest has bolstered the market for Japanese koi, and certain high-ranking koi from Nagaoka can command prices in the tens of thousands of dollars.
Koi are more than just ornamental fish in Japanese culture; they symbolize perseverance, strength, and beauty. These values are rooted in Japanese folklore, where koi are often associated with determination and resilience. The Nagaoka Koi Show, therefore, also serves as a celebration of Japanese heritage and cultural identity, especially for the locals of Niigata Prefecture, who take pride in their koi legacy.
Beyond the competition itself, the Nagaoka Koi Show includes a variety of events like koi auctions, where attendees have the opportunity to purchase high-quality koi from renowned breeders. The show also often features workshops and seminars on topics such as koi health, breeding techniques, pond management, and water quality maintenance.
These educational components are valuable for hobbyists and professionals looking to expand their knowledge and improve their koi-keeping practices.