Tancho Kohaku are non-metallic white koi with a single red marking on the head and no other red on the body. The simple pattern makes the head marking especially prominent. A centered, rounded mark is often admired, but identifying Tancho is about the placement of red, not requiring every mark to be a perfect circle.
Tancho Kohaku Photos
How to Identify Tancho Kohaku
- White body with the red pattern restricted to one head marking.
- No separate red plates along the back or sides.
- No black body pattern that would suggest a Tancho Sanke or Showa.
Compare Similar Varieties
Compare Kohaku with a separate head spot and additional red body plates: that is a Maruten arrangement rather than Tancho. Tancho Sanke also carries black markings, and Tancho Goshiki has a netted background. Inspect the sides as well as the top before deciding that all red is on the head.
Choosing and Observing Tancho Kohaku
Evaluate the head mark, white ground, body shape, and fins together. The familiar resemblance to a red-crowned crane or Japan's flag explains its appeal, but does not make every example equally valuable. A young red mark may change; ask for current views and any development record. Do not choose a fish solely for an idealized future circle.
For the complete visual directory, see koi varieties. Before purchasing, review buying koi and quarantine.