Rare "Female Shin-ko Eel" Begins First Shipment Domestically

Exquisite female eels, raised with unique aquaculture techniques by a third-generation eel farmer in Takahama City, Aichi Prefecture.

First Shipment: July 22 & 23, 2026

Yamaya Yo-gyo Co., Ltd. (Takahama City, Aichi Prefecture) will begin its first shipment of the extremely rare "female shin-ko eel" on July 22 (Wed) and 23 (Thu), 2026.

As a third-generation eel farmer in Takahama City, Aichi Prefecture, our company carefully raises each and every domestic elver. The female eels being shipped this time have been realized through a combination of our unique breeding environment and the latest aquaculture technology.

Unique and Dedicated Breeding Environment

For cultivation, we utilize the clear streams of the Yahagi River system and groundwater pumped from 100 meters below ground, depending on the application.

Additionally, we mix shell fossils into the soil of the aquaculture ponds to create an environment where eels can grow healthily.

We are also meticulous about the light environment, installing shading curtains in the aquaculture ponds and using 100% blackout vinyl for the outer covering. This allows us to raise eels in an environment that minimizes stress.

New Aquaculture Technology for Raising "Female Eels"

Generally, the sex of eels is not determined at the elver stage. However, in aquaculture environments, it is said that over 90% become male due to stress from growth conditions different from those in the wild.

On the other hand, female eels are said to be more flavorful, with thicker flesh, richer fat content, and a softer texture than males.

By utilizing technology established by the Aichi Prefectural Fisheries Research Institute and others, and by adding soy isoflavones to the feed, we have made it possible to raise almost all eels as females.

By combining this technology with our company's unique breeding environment, we have achieved stable production of high-quality female eels.

About the First Shipment

First Shipment Dates

July 22 (Wed) & 23 (Thu), 2026

Before Doyo no Ushi no Hi (Midsummer Day of the Ox), we will deliver these rare female eels, with their thick flesh and rich fat content, to many customers.

Comments from Representative

"By fusing the eel farming techniques passed down through three generations with new research results, we have been able to raise female eels of unprecedented quality. We sincerely hope many people will experience the difference."

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Company Profile

Company Name: Yamaya Yo-gyo Co., Ltd.

Location: Takahama City, Aichi Prefecture

Business Activities: Aquaculture and sales of domestic eels

Inquiries regarding this matter

Yamaya Yo-gyo Co., Ltd.

Contact: Tei Kasuya

TEL: 090-8078-2509

E-mail: [email protected]