A Nishikigoi (brocaded carp) with a white base and red patterns is called a Kohaku.
The most critical qualities of a Kohaku are:
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The white base must be pure, snow-white, with no yellowish or creamy tones.
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The red should be rich and intense, yet elegant and bright. Generally, a red with an orange undertone is preferred for its refined and vibrant hue, which tends to improve with age.
Kohaku are classified into multiple varieties based on the number, shape, and placement of their red patterns. Key types include:
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Dan-zumi Kohaku (Segment-patterned Kohaku)
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Kohaku with red patches arranged in distinct segments along the back.
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Nidan Kohaku (Two-step Kohaku)
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Two vivid red patches on a pure white body, resembling crimson evening clouds.
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Sandan Kohaku (Three-step Kohaku)
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Three striking red patches aligned along the silver-white back.
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Yondan Kohaku (Four-step Kohaku)
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Four bright red patches scattered across the silver-white body.
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Ippon Hi Kohaku (Straight-line Kohaku)
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A single, continuous red band running elegantly from head to tail.
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Inazuma Kohaku (Lightning-patterned Kohaku)
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A red pattern winding from head to tail like a zigzag lightning bolt.
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