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As a first time trip, I recommend the All Japan show. You can begin to train your eye to what is available in Japan and also be among other hobbyists ( serious hobbyists and not so many water garden influences) and hopefully go through a real transformation in terms of perception. You can also tour the local dealers to see what the hobby is like for local Japanese hobbyists.
It is really kinda crazy to go to Nagaoka this time of year although the dealers encourge it? The snow is ridiculous and the selection is limited or at least not as 'fresh' as after the harvest( the hard core will always find the selection great I guess?)- and often the key breeders are busy in Tokyo with the show. They will all be eager to see you a day or two after the show of cource but it always seems somehow hurried?
Some hobbyists plan trips to places like Hiroshima after the show. That is fine but do realize that it is alot like when my German friends came over for 7 days to visit and tour and told me they would like to see NY city, Disney world and the Grand Canyon ( if I could arrange it?!). They were obvious clueless about the distances involved! Hiroshima is a great distance from Tokyo ( too long a train ride so a plane is the only practical way). You can monorail it to the airport but you will loose at least a day in travel.
Many hobbyists feel that going to Japan and not buying a koi is a waste. Nothing could be further from the truth. The experience is everything. And each trip is unique- There is ALWAYS another koi to be bought! Always.
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