Body and movement first
As with every variety, assess the frame, head-to-tail line, swimming balance and fin condition before becoming absorbed in the pattern.
Black development is dynamic
Black may emerge, consolidate or change balance as a koi develops. Ask for the breeder's assessment and recent images rather than treating a current pattern as fixed.
Balance across three colours
Evaluate how black, red and white move across the entire body and whether the head and tail sections feel connected to the middle. The strongest impression often comes from rhythm rather than perfect symmetry.
Showa and Sanke are not interchangeable
Both use red, white and black, but their underlying impression and distribution of black differ. Use the distinction as a starting point, then learn each breeder's line and development style.