Goshiki

For the Sanke variety, the white (shiro) body should be a thick, milky white and not have any yellow tinting or blemishes. The red (hi) markings should be solid and evenly colored and the edges (kiwa) should be defined. The hue can range from a bright orange to a deep red tint. The black (sumi) markings should be solid with clearly defined edges as well. The spotting of dark blue or gray can change into black on a young Koi as it matures.

The Sanke look like Kohaku, but they have a black stepping stone pattern that runs along their back. The black pattern is called Sumi. A good looking Sanke will have a good Kohaku Hi pattern. The black pattern must not show up on the head and it should not be touching the Hi. The best sumi patterns on Sanke look like the dabs of an artist's brush.

Many people have a hard time telling the difference between a Sanke and a Showa. Here is the difference:

1. Sanke are white Koi, with red and black patterns. Showa are black Koi, with white and red patterns.
2. Sanke do not have black on their heads. Showa do.

Important - Please read before purchase: We are currently not shipping koi. If you decide to purchase online, please call us at (206) 350-7580 or email us at sales@playitkoi.com before you checkout to guarantee availability. On a weekly basis (every Saturday) we update our inventory lists and quantities to reflect current stock. However, as we have shipments arriving from Japan as well as customers coming in and buying every day of the week, availability may vary. Once you contact us, we will check the availability and reserve your fish, otherwise these fish are on a first come, first serve basis. Also, please note that the Images on this page are intended only to give you a visual representation of what the breed generally looks like and are not pictures of the koi you are purchasing. we have way too many to choose from and updating these constantly is not realistic. I can send you actual pictures upon request but we encourage you to stop by to store to see in person (sales@playitkoi.com).