Breeders Interview　 Tamaura Koi Farm, Koji Tamaura (Hiroshima)

Tamaura sanshoku with Effective sumi.

The journey of 42 years has been “steadily and diligently…” (Part 1)

This year marks the 55th anniversary of the establishment of the Tamaura KOi Farm in Mihara City, Hiroshima Prefecture. Known for its signature “Tamaura Sanshoku” and other varieties such as Kohaku and Showa, the farm consistently ranks among the top in national competitions. Behind these remarkable achievements in recent years lie numerous challenges. However, Mr. Tamaura has expressed that no matter how difficult things get, he always has the support of his companions.

In this feature, we will introduce the captivating koi bred by Mr. Koji Tamaura. We are also joined by his long-time supporters, Mrs. Hidemi and Mr. Yugi Kuninori, as we look back on the journey they have shared.

Becoming a Professional Koi Breeder at 22

Domestic Market Thrives, Over 80 Koi Shops in Town

ー I once introduced “Tamaura Sanshoku” in the August 1992 issue. Now, 32 years later, your koi have repeatedly won the Kokugyo Prize at the Junior Koi and Young Koi Evaluation Meetings (Picture①, ②, ③), especially the Taisho Sanke variety, which has performed exceptionally well.

Tamaura: Indeed, when people think of us, the first thing that comes to mind is still the Sanke variety (laughs). But actually, it’s not just the sanshoku that have won awards. Looking at the award results, winning with Sanke might even be considered relatively rare.

ー I heard that your father started producing koi in his generation.

Tamaura: In my father’s time, koi production wasn’t the main business; it was just something done on the side. I used to help out during my university holidays.

ー At what age did you start koi farming?

Tamaura: I started after graduating from university, at the age of 22. It’s been 42 years now.

ー Koi farming wasn’t originally the main business, but you decided to develop it as your primary occupation?

Tamaura: Yes. After graduating from university, I didn’t follow the usual path of joining a company and becoming a salaryman (laughs). I stayed at home to help out and became increasingly interested in koi, so I decided to make it my main business.

ー Did you have confidence at that time?

Tamaura: Not at all (laughs). To be honest, I was thinking at the time, “Can this really work?” Back then, there was very little communication between the eastern and western parts of the country, and the exchange between Niigata and Hiroshima was minimal. Information was very scarce. Although I personally would go to Niigata to buy parent koi, there wasn’t the same atmosphere of exchange as there is now. People from Niigata also rarely came to our area.