Award-winning reference photos
Identity
Tancho is a head-pattern category layered on an underlying variety. Common examples include Tancho Kohaku, Tancho Sanke, Tancho Showa, Tancho Goshiki, and Ginrin Tancho Showa.
For everyday recognition, the mark is usually a single round red marking on the head. The complete JAS definition is slightly broader: the circular head imprint can be a color other than scarlet. A koi with a round head mark plus additional body pattern is generally described as Maruten rather than Tancho.
| Feature | Preferred quality | Beginner caution |
|---|---|---|
| Head mark | Centered, pleasing, and separated from other red body markings. | A red spot alone does not make the fish valuable. |
| Shape of mark | Round or balanced shape is prized, but exact perfection is rare. | Do not ignore weak body or poor skin for a circle. |
| White skin | Clean white ground makes the Tancho mark stand out. | Yellowed skin weakens the simple design. |
| Underlying variety | Identify whether it is Tancho Kohaku, Tancho Sanke, or Tancho Showa. | Judging changes if sumi is present. |
What to look for
- The red head mark should be visually centered and pleasing.
- The body should still be strong; the head mark alone does not make a good koi.
- Clean white skin makes the Tancho impression much stronger.
Beginner note
Do not overpay only for a head spot. Check skin quality, swimming behavior, body line, the underlying variety, and whether the mark has clean edges. See the official JAS Tancho definition.