Mystic Koi & Water Gardens

Tucked away in Upland, California, Mystic Koi & Water Gardens has built a devoted following among pond enthusiasts across the Inland Empire and beyond. This Japanese-raised koi supplier is the real deal — a destination where the fish rival what you'd find at breeders in Japan, according to customers who've compared. Owner Shawn and his team bring decades of hands-on koi and pond experience, and it shows in every interaction.

The selection is staggering. From small, affordably priced koi perfect for a new pond to impressive large specimens, Mystic Koi stocks a range that keeps customers coming back repeatedly. One reviewer drove an hour just to browse and ended up returning the next day to take home three new fish.

That kind of pull speaks volumes about the quality on display. Beyond the fish, the pond plant selection draws its own loyal crowd. Aquatic plants are beautifully maintained and fairly priced, though regulars advise shopping before winter for the best picks.

Multiple reviewers specifically call out Mystic Koi as having the best pond plants in the IE — high praise in a region with no shortage of garden centers. On the equipment side, Mystic Koi stocks supplies from Teton and PondMAX, covering the hardware needs for pond construction, filtration, and maintenance. Staff are genuinely helpful with technical questions about pond setup, water quality, and fish care — not just salespeople pushing product, but experienced pond keepers sharing real knowledge.

The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, with friendly dogs greeting visitors at the entrance and a vibe that feels more like visiting a fellow hobbyist's property than a retail store. Couples and families find themselves making return trips, drawn back by the combination of beautiful fish, lush plants, and a staff that treats every question as worth answering thoroughly. For anyone building or maintaining a koi pond in Southern California, Mystic Koi & Water Gardens is a destination worth the drive.