A Beginner’s Guide to Sanke and Showa Koi: Origins, Patterns, and Key Differences

 

If you already keep koi — or are thinking about starting — you've likely noticed the striking combination of red, white, and black on some of the most eye-catching fish. These distinct patterns belong to either the Sanke or Showa varieties, depending on a few key features. 

As two of the most recognizable and popular types of koi, it's rare to find a pond without at least one of them. Keep reading to discover what makes these beautiful koi so special!

 

Sanke vs Showa Koi: What’s the Difference?

Koi keeping isn’t just about having beautiful fish — it’s about appreciating the art and history behind each variety. Among the many types of koi, two of the most admired and frequently compared are Sanke and Showa. Both are members of the “Gosanke” trio (along with Kohaku), considered the most prestigious and foundational koi in the hobby.

At a glance, Sanke and Showa can seem nearly identical — both display the same three colours: white, red, and black. But seasoned koi keepers know that the subtle placement and dominance of those colours tell very different stories. Understanding the difference isn't just about identification; it's a step deeper into the culture, aesthetics, and nuance of koi appreciation.

Let’s break down what makes each variety unique and how you can tell them apart with confidence.

 

Sanke Koi (Taisho Sanshoku)

Sanke are graceful koi with a white base, red (hi) markings, and black (sumi) patches. Their black markings are usually more refined and never appear on the head — that’s a big giveaway! The sumi (black) typically appears as accents on the body and tail area.

 

Showa Koi (Showa Sanshoku)

Showa koi also have white, red, and black — but with a major twist: black is the base colour, overlaid with red and white. Showa have bold, dramatic patterns, and you'll almost always see black on the head, often in striking bands or stripes.

 

Quick Tips to Tell Them Apart:

-          Black (sumi) head and inner pectoral fins? It’s probably a Showa.

-          Lots of white with subtle black? Likely a Sanke.

-          Bold black wrapping around the body? That’s Showa territory.

 

Key Differences and Characteristics

 

Base Colour:
Sanke koi feature a clean, white base, giving them a bright and elegant appearance. In contrast, Showa koi are built on a black base, which gives them a bolder, more dramatic presence.

 

Pattern Focus:
Sanke patterns highlight red (hi) markings with black (sumi) accents laid over the white base, typically in a clean and balanced style. Showa patterns, however, are more complex — showcasing the dominant black base with interwoven red and white markings, often with black appearing across the head and wrapping around the body.

Both Sanke and Showa koi can be bred with unique scale and skin variations, such as Gin Rin (shiny, reflective scales) and Doitsu (scaleless or partially scaled) types, adding extra visual appeal to these already stunning fish.

However, when it comes to metallic variants, only the Sanke variety has one — known as the Yamato Nishiki. This dazzling koi is essentially a metallic Sanke, featuring the same red, white, and black patterning, but with a shimmering lustre that makes it truly stand out in any pond.

To explore the full range of these stunning variations — from Gin Rin and Doitsu to metallic Yamato Nishiki — be sure to visit our website. You'll find up-to-date photos of the koi we currently have in stock, so you can see their unique patterns and colours for yourself.

 

Historical Development:
Sanke koi were introduced earlier, making their first appearance during the Taisho era (1912–1926). The Showa variety came a bit later, officially emerging in 1927 during the early Showa era, reflecting ongoing innovation in koi breeding.

While these guidelines can help you tell Sanke and Showa apart in theory, identifying them isn't always so straightforward in practice. If you're unsure about your koi or just want a second opinion, feel free to send us a photo — we're happy to help you identify it!

 

Origin and History

 

Sanke:

The Taisho Sanke originated during Japan’s Taisho era (1912–1926), which is how it earned its name. The earliest examples were discovered in Ojiya City, Niigata — a region known as the heart of koi breeding.

These koi were selectively bred with Shiro Bekko to refine their patterns and colour, eventually giving rise to the renowned Torazo bloodline, known for its vibrant red and clean white base.

 

Showa:

The Showa variety was developed slightly later, during the Showa era (1926–1989). The first Showa koi is credited to Jukichi Hoshino, who created it around 1929 by crossing Ki Utsuri with Matsukawabake.

Early Showa lacked the bold patterning we see today, but thanks to the efforts of other breeders — most notably the refinement seen in the Kobayashi Showa — the variety evolved into the striking, balanced koi that enthusiasts prize today.

 

Five Fun Facts About Sanke & Showa Koi

1. They’re Part of the "Royal Family" of Koi
   Sanke and Showa are two of the three prestigious Gosanke varieties, alongside Kohaku. These three are considered the most important and prized koi in traditional Japanese koi keeping.

2. The Head Tells a Story
   One of the easiest ways to tell Sanke and Showa apart is by looking at the head. Showa koi always have black (sumi) on the head, while Sanke do not — it's a signature feature!

3. They Can Look Similar as Young Fish
   Juvenile Sanke and Showa can be tricky to identify because their patterns and colors aren't fully developed. It often takes a trained eye (or a bit of patience) to tell them apart as they mature.

4. Sanke Were Once a "Happy Accident"
   The original Sanke emerged through crossbreeding, and their iconic look wasn't always intentional. Over time, selective breeding refined the variety into what we recognize today.

5. Showa’s Black Comes From Utsuri Roots
   The deep black in Showa koi comes from one of its ancestors, the Ki Utsuri. This gives Showa their bold, dramatic look — with black often wrapping around the body in bands or lightning-like streaks.

Ready to find your perfect koi? Explore Our Stunning Collection of Sanke, Showa, and More!

Dive into our carefully curated selection of premium koi, including vibrant Sanke, bold Showa, and many other beautiful varieties. Browse our up-to-date stock, get personalized expert advice, or send us a photo of your koi for a free identification.

Whether you're just starting out or perfecting your pond, we're here to help you create a truly breathtaking koi experience.

 

For more information about koi or advice on your pond, check out the rest of our blogs… 

The Ultimate Guide to Kohaku Koi: Origins, Traits, and Varieties |  Utsurimono Koi Varieties: Everything You Need to Know | Understanding Your Water Parameters for a Healthy Pond Ecosystem