Kaneko

Kaneko Koi Farm

Founded in 1961 in Nigorisawa, Nagaoka, Niigata Prefecture by Takaaki Kaneko, and now under the guidance of his son Yasuaki Kaneko, Kaneko Koi Farm has built a reputation as one of Japan’s most innovative and consistent koi breeders. With a dedicated raising area of around 30,000 m², more than 55 mud ponds, and a carefully selected parent stock of 60 koi, the farm produces approximately 30,000 fry each year—a scale that allows for both diversity and meticulous selection.

Kaneko Koi Farm is most famous for its role as a pioneer of the Kujyaku variety. Known for their metallic lustre and refined reticulated patterns, Kujyaku remain at the core of the farm’s breeding programme, with Kaneko koi recognised for their sharp definition, balanced bodies, and vibrant sheen. Alongside Kujyaku, the farm has also developed an excellent reputation for Shiro Utsuri and Matsukawabake, koi that require careful selection to achieve perfect sumi balance and striking contrast.

The farm’s catalogue of varieties extends further, including Beni Kikokuryu, Hikarimono, Ochibashigure, and even Tamasaba (Japanese goldfish), reflecting the farm’s versatility and ability to adapt to changing trends in the koi world. Each year, Yasuaki Kaneko refines the farm’s breeding choices, making subtle adjustments to varieties and pairings in order to achieve ever-higher standards of beauty and quality. As he describes it: “We change what we breed bit by bit each year—it’s a constant goal to keep making them better.”

Kaneko koi are admired not only in Japan but also internationally, where collectors value their unique contribution to Nishikigoi bloodlines. Whether it is the metallic brilliance of Kujyaku, the bold sumi of Shiro Utsuri, or the elegance of Matsukawabake