About Us

The name ‘Ichiyo’ refers to a type of Japanese cherry blossom that sports pale pink flowers and blossoms from mid-April to early May. The name has significant meaning to us; the flower can range from very pale pink to white in colour, to match our foundation Hokkaido Ken who is also white. The month in which the Ichiyo Sakura bloom, is the same time of year that we brought home our first Hokkaido Ken, Momo! Since then, we have added another hokkaido female to our kennel, Uzume.

Here at Ichiyo Kensha, we aim to be a reliable source of information and advice on the Japanese Hokkaido Ken. We are a friendly source of information to see if this ancient breed is right for you! We aim to be honest, and explain the high, and lows, the good and bad, of being owned by this fantastic breed!

Ichiyo Kensha is a well-informed Hokkaido Ken owner, and a hobbyist based in The UK. Due to there being a very small number of Hokkaido Ken living in the United Kingdom, Ichiyo Kensha aims to be a source of information and support for Hokkaido enthusiasts and owners alike. We aim to help with the preservation of the Hokkaido Ken within the UK, and to increase their genetic diversity. Our end goal is to get the Hokkaido Ken recognised by the Royal Kennel Club. All of our current dogs are registered with the Irish Kennel Club (FCI). We are an IKC (FCI) and NIPPO registered.