KoiQuestion Japan trip 2025 – journalism, experience & international connection
No vacation. A mission.
KoiQuestion is on an upward trajectory after several years of relative restraint. We are once again appearing prominently at shows, being solicited as photographers, starting lasting collaborations, and seeing the results grow in visitor numbers and social reach. Our place as an independent news source in the hobby is increasingly recognized. This not only instills pride, but obliges us to do sharp, honest and substantive work; no sales pitches, but in-depth work on the mystique and beauty of the hobby.
Reporting in nine languages: cross-border reach
For the first time, we are bringing our content in **nine languages**. By doing so, we make this journey accessible to a global readership from hobbyists in Europe to enthusiasts in Asia and beyond. This step forms the basis for a broad and in-depth journalistic future of KoiQuestion, in which knowledge and experience are central.
Return after six years: Tiebo goes to Japan again
The face of this trip is **Tiebo Jacobs**, co-founder of KoiQuestion. Since the last trip – before the corona pandemic, more than six years ago – Tiebo did not return to Japan. Previously, he stayed there several times, months at a time, connected to breeders, mud, culture and story. This upcoming trip feels like both a return and a new beginning.
“I look forward to once again feeling the mud of Niigata, having the conversations, experiencing the magic of the Ikeage.”
What to expect.
- Impressive photography of Koi dealers, agents, breeders and hobbyists in their element
- In-depth interviews with growers
- Videos & background stories on culture, technology and experience
- Inspiring short videos that capture the spirit of Koi culture and just blow your mind as a hobbyist. 😉
- Content that goes beyond images: analysis, context and mysticism
Announcements & plans during the trip
We will bring our own ambitions with us. During our stay, we will make important announcements about the future of KoiQuestion: about structure, about team expansion, about plans for the KoiQuestion Academy and new international initiatives. As a result, this trip is not only exchange, but also launch.
Thanks to AB Koi Marum
This trip is made possible in part by AB Koi Marum, based in Marum, Groningen. Not as a conventional sponsor, but as a partner in mission – a company that believes in independent coverage of the hobby, even in its country of origin. During this journey, we will trek together, help with photography and share adventures. Also follow their Instagram and check out their Facebook page.
Why this journey matters
KoiQuestion has a free voice in the koi community. No sales pitches, but stories that really belong to be told. Knowledge sharing; inspiration. This journey marks a new chapter: not just physically returning to Japan, but symbolizing rebirth and re-anchoring. We dig back to our roots, to the first videos from Japan (since 2010), while looking ahead to what is to come.
Travel with us
Follow our journey. Share in the wonder. Discover what makes the hobby so special.
KoiQuestion – Beating Heart of the Nishikigoi Community
