Oya Koi Farm, often referred to simply as Kataoka after its breeder, is one of Niigata’s most respected koi farms, known for producing koi with exceptional refinement, balance, and skin quality. Located in the mountainous Koguriyama area of Ojiya, Niigata, the farm is operated by Taro Kataoka, a breeder widely regarded as one of Japan’s leading craftsmen of traditional Nishikigoi.
Founded in the early 1960s, Oya Koi Farm has remained intentionally focused rather than mass-produced, allowing for meticulous breeding and hands-on development. This approach has helped the farm build a reputation for koi that reflect classic Japanese beauty while still feeling distinctive and thoughtfully evolved.
EXCEPTIONAL SHOWA AND SANKE WITH REFINED SUMI
Oya Koi Farm is especially admired for its Showa and Sanke, which are bred with an emphasis on balance, skin clarity, and beautifully defined sumi development. Their Showa are known for sharp, well-placed black markings layered cleanly over rich red and strong white skin, creating koi that feel powerful without being heavy.
The farm’s Sanke are equally respected, often displaying refined and elegant patterns that improve as the koi matures. Oya’s sumi quality has earned recognition at major Japanese shows, including awards at the All Japan Nishikigoi Show, reinforcing the farm’s standing among elite breeders.
WORLD-CLASS ASAGI AND DISTINCTIVE VARIETIES
Beyond Gosanke, Oya Koi Farm is internationally renowned for producing some of the finest Asagi in the world. These koi are prized for their clean netting, soft blue coloration, and beautifully balanced hi placement, qualities that require exceptional precision and patience to achieve. Many collectors seek out Oya Asagi specifically for their calm elegance and long-term development.
In addition to Asagi, the farm also produces Kohaku, and select Doitsu and Ginrin varieties. These koi add diversity and visual interest to the farm’s offerings while maintaining the same high standards applied to its flagship varieties.
A BREEDING PHILOSOPHY ROOTED IN PRECISION AND PATIENCE
Oya Koi Farm operates across approximately 50,000 square meters of raising area, using well-maintained mud ponds and greenhouse systems designed to support steady, natural development. The farm’s philosophy centers on producing koi that age gracefully rather than peak early, with careful attention paid to structure, skin quality, and pattern flow.
Each koi is the result of deliberate selection and restrained production, ensuring that quality remains the defining feature of the Oya name. This measured approach has made the farm a trusted source for collectors who value refinement and authenticity over volume.
OYA KOI AT FITZ’S FISH PONDS
Fitz’s Fish Ponds works closely with Oya Koi Farm to select koi that truly represent the farm’s craftsmanship and individuality. Our direct relationship allows us to visit the farm in person, evaluate koi firsthand, and hand-pick specimens based on pattern, size potential, and standout characteristics.
Whether you’re seeking a bold Showa, an elegant Sanke, or a refined Asagi, Oya koi offer something distinctive for every collection. Their blend of traditional beauty and subtle modern character makes them an excellent choice for ponds that value depth, balance, and lasting appeal.
Browse our selection of Oya koi today and experience the precision and artistry behind one of Niigata’s most respected koi farms. Need help choosing the right koi? Contact a koi expert online or call us at (908) 420-9908.
