Italian Embassy pond in Tokyo welcomes 25 carp

(ANSA) - TOKYO, 04 LUG - The delivery ceremony of 25 carp donated by the Municipality of Ojiya, the native city of the Nishikigoi type - considered the national fish of Japan - was held at the Italian Embassy in Tokyo. They will be housed in the pond of the historic garden of the residence, which dates back to the Edo period (1603-1868). This is the continuation of a project started in June 2022, with the cooperation of the All Japan Nishikigoi Promotion Association, explains Ambassador Gianluigi Benedetti, during a courtesy visit to the municipality of Ojiya. "These extraordinarily beautiful creatures embody values that are deeply rooted in Japanese culture: a symbol of perseverance, strength and good luck, they represent a real treasure for the water that hosts them," said the ambassador in front of a large audience, before the release of the giant fish into their new home. "The presence of the Nishikigoi carps in the embassy garden is not just an aesthetic embellishment, but a bridge between two cultures, a sign of respect and friendship between Italy and Japan". In addition to the Mayor of the city of Ojiya, Etsuo Miyazaki, the event was also attended by the Minister of the Environment, Hon. Shintaro Ito, and the President of the Italy-Japan Parliamentary Friendship League, Hon. Akira Amari.