Beni Kikokuryu Koi – Complete Guide with This Friday’s Online Koi Release Preview

Beni Kikokuryu are among the most eye-catching koi you’ll ever see — metallic white skin, bold red patches, and dynamic black that seems to shift with the seasons.

They are one of our favourites and a variety we are developing our own breeding lines in, but with no Beni Kikokuryu spawning last year we have procured some special nisai from Marusaka, won at auction in Japan.

In this blog, I'll explain some of the key features of this high contrast variety, and include buying tips plus an assessment of some Beni Kikokuryu being released onto our website in this week's online koi release.

Why Beni Kikokuryu Stand Out

The hallmark of this variety is the sumi originating from Kumonryu— black markings that can appear, fade, or reposition with life stages or seasons.  This dynamic sumi sets it apart from similar varieties like Doitsu Matsuba or Kujaku.  It can present as a dusting of sumi that may appear on the sides and body, through to bold more solid sumi markings.

This ever-changing sumi gives Beni Kikokuryu a sense of movement, almost as though the fish is alive with seasonal patterns.

A high-quality example shows:

• Strong metallic lustre across the whole body.

• Deep, even red (beni) with crisp edges (kiwa).

• Balanced patterns of red, white, and black.

Buying Tips

When choosing a Beni Kikokuryu:

• Check the skin — the white base should shine with a clear metallic finish. Any dullness will only worsen over time.

• Study the beni — look for bright, even red with sharp kiwa (edges). Avoid blotchy or faded patches.

• Think ahead — sumi will change, so choose a koi with good underlying structure rather than being dazzled by temporary markings.

• Size and body shape — pick a fish with a strong frame and good balance, as this will support growth and long-term beauty.

Care & Growth

Patience is essential — these koi often transform dramatically as they mature, and their true beauty may only appear after a few years.

This Friday Night’s Beni Kikokuryu Release

We’ve selected some stunning Beni Kikokuryu for this week’s sale. Each koi is unique, with its own pattern, metallic sheen and future potential. Take a look below — every fish is pictured with a short note on its merits.

A strong-bodied koi with a bold red markings on the flanks parallel with the dorsal line, set against a bright metallic base. The sumi on the head adds drama and contrast, ensuring this fish will remain eye-catching as it grows.

This koi shows a clean platinum body with balanced splashes of beni and developing sumi along the flanks. The even distribution gives it elegance, and the lighter ground allows future changes to stand out beautifully.

Packed with presence — this fish has intense, solid beni across the head and back paired with bold sumi on the face and flanks. A classic example of how Beni Kikokuryu can combine power with refinement.

A refined koi with a neat dorsal row of scales, strong lustre, and large, unbroken beni plates. The contrast of well developed sumi against crisp platinum white skin gives this fish a sharp look.  The strong body bodes well for future growth.

Excellent body shape and shimmering metallic finish. The beni is rich and well-placed, creating a pleasing flow from head to tail. One for those who value both structure and future potential.

With large, deep beni patches and a high sheen to the skin, this koi makes an immediate impression. The sumi is lighter for now, leaving space for interesting changes in future seasons. This fish offers a striking pattern — alternating red and black across a bright white ground.

A lively example with scattered beni plates balanced along the body, paired with a developing dusting of sumi. Its clean platinum base enhances the metallic sparkle, giving it real pond presence.

Final Thoughts

If you enjoy koi that evolve and surprise you, Beni Kikokuryu are a perfect choice. With their metallic brilliance, fiery red, and ever-changing sumi, they add real drama to any pond. We have procured a great selection for you to choose from, from our favourite Beni kikokuryu breeder, Marusaka.  Choose wisely at purchase, give it time, and you may end up with a living jewel that becomes the pride of your collection.