Sakai Koi Farm

Location: Mihara, Hiroshima

Specialty: Gosanke varieties, especially Kohaku and Sanke

Sakai Koi Farm is one of the most prestigious Nishikigoi (koi) breeders in Japan. It is located in Hiroshima, and has been operating since 1896. The owner is Kentaro Sakai, the fourth generation of the Sakai family. Sakai Koi Farm specializes in Gosanke varieties, especially Kohaku and Sanke. It has a total raising area of 20 hectares, consisting of 80 mud ponds and 12 greenhouses. Sakai Koi Farm is known for its high-quality koi, which have won many prizes at the All Japan Koi Show and other competitions. It also exports its koi to many countries around the world, including the US.

  • History

    1890s — First-generation Ichiroji Sakai began carp farming in Niigata for food purposes.

    Early 1900s — His son, Chudo Sakai, continued the family tradition and started breeding colored koi from natural mutations found in Yamakoshi.

    Mid-1900s — Koji Sakai professionalized the business, establishing the family as full-time Nishikigoi breeders.

    Late 20th Century — Among the first in the koi industry to adopt scientific breeding methods and modern marketing approaches.

    2000 — Won the first Grand Champion title at the All Japan Nishikigoi Show.

    2000–2020 — Achieved a total of 11 Grand Champion titles at the All Japan Nishikigoi Show, solidifying their global reputation.

  • Awards