The Yamakoshi District, in Nagaoka, Niigata Prefecture, is the site of over 1600 mud ponds, where Nishikigoi originate. Out of hundreds of thousands of fry the most promising in color and form are selected to swim for a few years in these mud ponds, in the midst of nature, to grow into large beauties. In the autumn, people from around the world gather in Yamakoshi. The popularity of Nishikigoi outside of Japan was triggered by a certain Englishman. What is it that he finds fascinating about Nishikigoi? Learn about the thoughts of the growers who carry on the traditions of their forebears, and about their passion to create superior koi.