Nagami

Nagami is a Japanese term that appears in several contexts, most notably as a surname, a variety of ornamental carp, and a place name.

As a family name, Nagami (長見 or 永見) is relatively uncommon in Japan. Individuals bearing the name have been recorded in historical documents dating to the Edo period, and contemporary figures include Nagami Kiyoshi, a television writer, and Nagami Ayaka, a professional shogi player. The name is typically written with kanji meaning “long view” or “eternal sight,” reflecting a poetic origin.

In ornamental aquaculture, Nagami refers to a prominent strain of koi (Cyprinus rubrofuscus). First developed in the early 20th century in the Niigata prefecture, Nagami koi are distinguished by a broad, clean white base colour and symmetrical black markings that resemble a standing wave (the Japanese word nagami). The pattern is prized for its balance and simplicity, making Nagami one of the most popular and widely exhibited koi varieties at international shows.

Geographically, Nagami designates a former town in Kochi Prefecture, merged into the city of Nankoku in 2005. The area is known for its lush hillsides, traditional tea production, and historic temples dating back to the Heian period.

The term also appears in cultural works, such as the character Nagami Hoshine in the visual‑novel series “Kagi‑Yahashiki,” illustrating its occasional use as a given name in fiction.