Sakazume Koi Farm is a historic and highly respected breeder located in the Yamakoshi region of Ojiya City, Niigata, Japan. With roots dating back to the early 20th century, the farm has developed a global reputation for producing refined, show-quality koi, particularly within the Goromo family of varieties. Today, the farm is managed by Shinsaku Sakazume, who continues the family legacy with a focused dedication to precision breeding and long-term koi development.
Yamakoshi is widely regarded as one of the birthplaces of Nishikigoi, and Sakazume’s location in this mountainous region plays a key role in shaping the quality of its fish. Cold winters, mineral-rich mud ponds, and disciplined husbandry contribute to koi that are structurally strong, vibrant in color, and built to mature gracefully.
A GLOBAL BENCHMARK FOR GOROMO
Sakazume Koi Farm is internationally recognized as one of the premier breeders of Goromo, particularly Ai Goromo and Budo Goromo. These koi are distinguished by their deep indigo reticulation layered over bold red plates, creating a textured, almost embroidered appearance across the body. The precision of the ai patterning and the clarity of the underlying skin are hallmarks of Sakazume breeding.
The farm’s Goromo are developed with balance in mind. The reticulation enhances rather than overwhelms the red pattern, allowing the koi to maintain visual harmony as it grows. Over time, the layering becomes more refined, giving mature Sakazume Goromo a richness and depth that set them apart on the show circuit.
HIGH-QUALITY GOSANKE AND METALLIC VARIETIES
While Goromo remains the farm’s signature specialty, Sakazume also produces exceptional Kohaku, Sanke, and Showa. These Gosanke are bred with clean skin, balanced patterns, and strong body frames that support steady growth and long-term beauty. The Kohaku feature crisp white skin and stable red plates, while Sanke and Showa reflect careful sumi placement and refined composition.
A BREEDING PHILOSOPHY BUILT ON PRECISION AND TRADITION
Sakazume Koi Farm manages approximately 70 mud ponds and produces around 50,000 fry annually. Despite its scale, the farm maintains strict selection and culling processes to preserve quality and consistency. Each generation is developed with attention to color depth, structural integrity, and pattern refinement.
Shinsaku Sakazume’s approach reflects decades of accumulated expertise, emphasizing koi that improve with age rather than fade. This focus on maturity has contributed to the farm’s growing success at major koi shows, where its Goromo varieties are increasingly recognized among top competitors.
SAKAZUME KOI AT FITZ’S FISH PONDS
Fitz’s Fish Ponds works directly with Sakazume Koi Farm to select koi that exemplify the farm’s craftsmanship and global reputation. Each koi is chosen based on pattern balance, body conformation, and long-term development potential, ensuring it reflects the refined standards that define Sakazume breeding.
Whether you are seeking a striking Aigoromo with deep indigo detail or a refined Kohaku or Sanke with classic Niigata strength, Sakazume koi offer layered beauty and enduring quality.
Browse our current Sakazume offerings today, or contact an expert for help with selection or future import options. Call us at (908) 420-9908 or Talk to an Expert today!
SAKAZUME KOI FARM FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND COLLECTOR INSIGHTS
What Is Sakazume Koi Farm Most Famous For?
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Sakazume is well known for its Koromo / Aigoromo koi—especially those with rich indigo (“ai”) overlays. While Koromo remains their primary focus, the farm also produces Kohaku, Showa, Sanke, and Goshiki.
What Makes Sakazume’s Aigoromo Distinctive?
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Sakazume’s Aigoromo are celebrated for their rich indigo (ai), distinct patterns, and harmonious balance with pure white skin. Their designs often feature ai layered over hi or shiroji to emphasize harmony and subtlety.
Does Sakazume Produce Other Varieties?
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Yes. Beyond Koromo/Aigoromo, Sakazume breeds classic varieties, including Kohaku, Showa, Sanke, and Goshiki. In some seasons, their production is split, with roughly half in Koromo/Budo (blue/purple Koromo) and the rest in these traditional lines.
Why Choose A Sakazume Koi From Fitz’s Fish Ponds?
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We maintain close ties with major Japanese breeders, such as Sakazume, to ensure we receive only the best specimens. Each koi is checked for body shape, skin, and pattern potential—so you get a valuable fish, not just a decorative pond piece.
