The Promotion Association hosted the first Nishikigoi Seminar for overseas members, aiming to promote the Nishikigoi Meister.
On January 26, the first day of the 55th All Japan Nishikigoi Show, the “Nishikigoi Seminar IN Tokyo” was held, co-hosted by Niigata Prefecture and the All Japan Nishikigoi Promotion Association.
This inaugural seminar aimed to promote the development of the Nishikigoi industry and foster international economic and cultural exchange through Nishikigoi. Participants received the title of ” Nishikigoi Meister ” along with a certification issued by the Nishikigoi Promotion Association.
The “Nishikigoi Cultivation Technician” training program, previously limited to domestic members, was held for the first time for overseas members. This initiative aims to enhance the knowledge and breeding techniques of overseas members amid the rapid globalization of Nishikigoi while raising awareness of the ” Nishikigoi Meister System” established by the promotion association.
On this day, Professor Yutaka Suga, honorary advisor of the promotion association and professor at the University of Tokyo, delivered a lecture titled “The Birth and Allure of ‘Swimming Gems—Nishikigoi’. ” Meanwhile, Hitomi Yoshinouchi, Director of the Fisheries Safety Office at the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, gave a special presentation on “The Current State of Japan’s Seafood Trade.” Nineteen overseas members listened attentively throughout the event.


The organizers provided two interpreters and simultaneous interpretation equipment on-site, enhancing the simultaneous translation system. A relevant official stated, “Comprehensive translation support ensures that members from all countries can smoothly participate in the course learning.”
This Nishikigoi seminar was held alongside the All Japan Koi Show, which gathered overseas members. The organizers indicated that they would evaluate the preliminary promotional outcomes and the experience gained this time to actively explore the possibility of continuing the event from next year onward.
Additionally, the title and certification of ” Nishikigoi Meister ” issued to those who complete the course are valid for three years and will be automatically renewed thereafter.
