• A single Tancho Sanke Showa koi fish with predominantly white and black coloring, and a large red spot on its side, swimming in a blue-pitched environment.
1 1

Toyoma Koi International

25001 Tancho Sanke Showa 2 Year Female 18" SOLD

25001 Tancho Sanke Showa 2 Year Female 18" SOLD

A Tancho Sanke Showa is a Japanese koi with a distinct tancho-style red marking on the head and a body that carries black patterning reminiscent of the Sanshoku family. In traditional Nishikigoi classification, Sanke and Showa are separate varieties, so this term is usually used to describe a fish whose appearance blends qualities associated with both. The clean tancho marking creates a strong focal point, while the sumi on the body adds contrast, depth, and a more dramatic overall presence in the water.

What makes this type of koi especially appealing is the combination of simplicity and strength. The head remains crisp and elegant with its centered red mark, while the body pattern brings added character beyond a standard Tancho. A strong example should have a well-shaped tancho, balanced sumi placement, clean white ground, and a body line that supports the fish’s overall harmony. For collectors drawn to Japanese koi with distinctive Nishikigoi character and a more unusual Sanshoku-style expression, a Tancho Sanke Showa offers a very memorable and visually striking presence.

View full details