Three colours
“Sanshoku” literally means “three colours” in Japanese. There are a few varieties of koi that have “Sanshoku” in their names because of their tricolour patterns: 1. Sanke (or Taisho Sanshoku): This koi has a white base colour with red (hi) and black (sumi) spots. It is one of the three great classic varieties along with Kohaku and Showa. 2. Showa (or Showa Sanshoku): This koi differs from Sanke by its black base colour with red (hi) and white spots. Although “Showa Sanshoku” is the full name, it is often shortened to “Showa”. The fact that “Showa” is often used instead of “Showa Sanshoku” maybe because Showa already has a unique and recognisable pattern that sets it apart from other varieties. In the koi community, “Showa” is considered common enough to be obvious, without the extra “Sanshoku”. It’s a matter of convenience and familiarity with the hobby.
