Ooya 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, Ooya 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
Ooya 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. Ooya’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, Ooya 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 Ooya 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
Ooya 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 Ooya name. This measured approach has made the farm a trusted source for collectors who value refinement and authenticity over volume.
OOYA KOI AT FITZ’S FISH PONDS
Fitz’s Fish Ponds works closely with Ooya 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, Ooya 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 Ooya 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.
OOYA KOI FARM FAQS – SHOWA, SANKE AND DOITSU KOI
What Is Ooya Koi Farm Best Known For?
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Ooya Koi Farm is best known for its Showa koi, especially those with thick sumi markings and bold red patterns. The farm also has a growing reputation for Doitsu Showa and well-balanced Sanke.
Where Is Ooya Koi Farm Located?
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The farm is located in Katakai, Niigata, Japan, which is considered a historic region for koi farming and home to some of the country’s finest breeders.
Are Ooya Koi Suitable For Beginners?
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Yes. While Ooya koi are often selected for their unique patterns and standout features, they’re also a great fit for new pond owners looking for koi with visual appeal from day one.
What Makes Ooya’s Showa Different From Other Breeders?
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Ooya Showa are known for having deep, inky black patterns layered across a bright white body with contrasting red accents. The layout of color tends to be bold and balanced, which makes them visually striking in both shallow and deep ponds.
Why Buy Koi From Fitz’s Fish Ponds?
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Our team personally selects Ooya koi straight from the farm. This means our customers get access to koi that are chosen for their standout traits and long-term potential in any collection or backyard pond.
