The word Sanke means tri-colour.
A little bit of history on the Sanke
It is not known exactly when the first sanke was bred but they were first recorded between 1912 and 1926. They have changed dramatically over the years from having a striped appearance to the many patterns found today.
Sanke Colours
One of the most popular varieties, the Sanke has a wide variety of patterns. A white fish with red (hi) and black (sumi) markings.
For more information on Koi Varieties please see our Guide
Updated 30 October 2026.
