From over 50 Years of the history at the All Japan Combined Nishikigoi Show

Legendary Koi worth passing down to future generations : Shiro Utsuri Edition

By Noriaki Kojima (Chanobi)

The Combined Nishikigoi Show, organised by the All Japan Nishikigoi Promotion Association, has been held for over 50 years. Throughout its long history, countless beautiful Nishikigoi have left lasting impressions on many and touched the hearts of enthusiasts—a fact that hardly needs stating.
Among those countless beautiful Nishikigoi, some stand out with such exceptional beauty that, even today, they remain vividly etched in the minds of those who saw them. These are the actual “exceptional koi” — legendary koi worthy of the name. In this series, we will feature these iconic representatives of their respective eras, shining on the grand stage of the koi show, introduced by variety.

Commissioner’s Award Shiro Utsuri
This koi fulfilled the dream of giving a Shiro Utsuri a powerful, commanding body. Bold, jet-black sumi contrasted its pure white skin. Overcoming the common challenge of this variety—sagging along the belly—this koi proved that one can achieve not only size but also an outstanding physique.
It began appearing at All Japan koi show in 2001 (33rd All Japan Combined Nishikigoi Show) and won the Commissioner’s Award of the Fisheries Agency at the 42nd Niigata Agricultural Festival (overall 2nd place). Another koi from the same breeder, nicknamed “Musashi,” also gained fame as a pioneer of large Shiro Utsuri.
■Breeder: Omosako Koi Farm, Takashi Omosako (Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture)
■Exhibitor: Sentaro Ito (Niigata Prefecture)
Bogaki Shiro Utsuri
With a rich, well-proportioned body, pure white skin, glossy jet-black sumi, and stylish sumi patterns, this koi was a representative of the large Shiro Utsuri of its time. It won Overall First Place in the 75bu at the 28th All Japan Combined Nishikigoi Show.
■Breeder: Unknown

■Exhibitor: Masanobu Bogaki (Hyogo Prefecture)