40 Nishikigoi Released by Ogata Koi Farm, Swimming in the Moat of Obi Castle, Nichinan, Miyazaki

On Sunday, July 13, Ogata Koi Farm based in Kurume City, Fukuoka Prefecture, released 40 Nishikigoi into a roughly 150-meter-long waterway flowing through the center of Obi Castle Town in Nichinan City, Miyazaki Prefecture.
The koi released that day, ranging from 35 to 50 cm in length, included Gosanke, Hikarimono, Asagi, Shusui, and other varieties. Once released, they immediately began swimming gracefully.
Obi Castle Town, a tourist destination in Nichinan City, retains an Edo-period atmosphere with its old stone walls. The waterways, once used for fire prevention and daily life, fell into disuse and deterioration over time. However, in recent years, preservation efforts for the castle town have led to their restoration and beautification.
Since 2015, the city has been releasing Nishikigoi to delight visitors. Although the population, which once reached 120 koi, had declined to less than half due to disease and other factors, releases such as the one held last October have replenished their numbers. Today, many colorful koi swim in the waterways, making it a popular spot that fascinates visitors.
“They are swimming beautifully, so if you visit Miyazaki, please be sure to stop by,” said Mr. Ogata.