Discovering the Heart of Niigata: Day Three with Chris

 

Morning Revelations: A Traditional Start
Day three dawned bright and early, bringing with it the anticipation of new encounters. Starting the day with a traditional Japanese breakfast was a revelation in itself. The array of flavours and presentation was unexpected, turning what I thought would be a routine meal into a delightful experience. It was a perfect beginning, setting the tone for the day ahead.

The Ascent to Hosokai
By 8:45 AM, we were ascending into the mountains, the serene beauty of Niigata unfolding with every mile. Our appointment with Hosokai at 9:00 was something I'd been looking forward to, given their reputation for excellence. Upon arrival, the connection was instant, a testament to the warmth and openness of the koi community here. Gifting him one of our Elite Koi T-shirts, we dove straight into selecting a box of Nisai, marking a promising start to the day.

The Tosai Fish House: A Steamy Encounter
Entering the Tosai Fish House was like stepping into a realm where time and the outside world ceased to exist. The air was warm and steamy, filled with the promise of discovery among the Tosai on display. I was granted the privilege to select jumbo Tosai, a task both exhilarating and daunting. Among them, a Goromo caught my eye, its elegance and beauty standing out. Though I spotted another too late for selection, the experience was unmatched.

Hosokai's Pride: The Koisui
In conversation with Mr. Hosokai, we delved into the specialties of the farm. He shared that the Koi Sui, known for its striking red and white patterns, has been the farm's pride over the last season. Following his recommendation, I selected a couple, eager to see how they'll be received back home. The care and dedication to maintaining the health and beauty of these fish at 18°C were evident, leaving me in awe of the meticulous attention to detail.

 

The Quest for Longfins
With the morning's successful selections behind us, the day's adventure was far from over. Next on the agenda was to find a box of longfin Koi, a task that promised its own set of challenges and delights. Our planned visits to Suda and perhaps  Yamazaki hinted at more discoveries to come, each stop an opportunity to delve deeper into the world of koi.

Reflections and Anticipation
This morning's visit to Hosokai and the Tosai Fish House was a vivid reminder of the passion and expertise that define the koi breeding culture in Niigata. The warmth of the people, the beauty of the landscape, and the unparalleled quality of the fish have made each moment unforgettable. As we move on to the next part of our journey, the excitement for what lies ahead continues to grow. Each farm visit, each koi selected, brings new insights and deepens the appreciation for this remarkable craft.

The Path Forward
As we prepare to explore further, the anticipation of uncovering more gems among the koi farms of Niigata fills me with excitement. The quest for longfins and the visits to other renowned farms are not just about adding to our collection; they're about connecting with the artistry and tradition that make each koi unique. Here's to more discoveries, more connections, and more unforgettable moments in the heart of Japan's koi country.