The Beginning of an Unusual Friendship

An 85-year-old diver has formed an extraordinary bond with a fish that has lasted for three decades. Hiroyuki Arakawa, once part of a scuba team, found himself helping an injured fish many years ago. This act of kindness started a friendship that continues to this day.

Hiroyuki first met the fish when she was hurt. He stepped in to help by cracking open shellfish with his hammer. He fed her five times a day for ten days until her injury healed and she could feed herself again.

A Bond That Grew Stronger

Over time, Hiroyuki felt that the fish understood he had helped her. He began looking forward to their meetings too. He named his underwater friend Yoriko.

Hiroyuki admits that food can get any animal's attention. But there was something more to this relationship. He kept visiting Yoriko regularly, and their connection deepened.

Thirty Years and Counting

Three decades later, nothing has changed in their special relationship. Their most recent meeting was documented on December 4, 2023.

When Hiroyuki wants to see Yoriko, he has a special way to call her. He rings an underwater bell near a shrine. This signals to Yoriko that her human friend has arrived. She then swims up to join him for his dive.

More Than Just Feeding Time

For Hiroyuki, this relationship means much more than just visiting a fish. When describing their bond, he speaks of "an amazing sense of accomplishment" in his heart.

Their friendship shows how connections can form across species barriers. It reminds us that kindness can create lasting bonds in the most unexpected places.

Hiroyuki's daily visits to see Yoriko demonstrate the power of routine and dedication in maintaining relationships. After thirty years, their underwater meetings continue to bring joy to this elderly diver's life.