Kujaku (孔雀 (Kujaku))
The peacock — a metallic Kohaku pattern overlaid with black netting across the scales.
Kujaku: Red markings on a metallic white ground, with black reticulation netting the scales, especially within and around the pattern.
| Pattern (JAS-aligned) | Red markings on a metallic white ground, with black reticulation netting the scales, especially within and around the pattern. |
|---|---|
| Colours | Metallic white and red plus a fine black net — shine and pattern together. |
| How to tell it | Metallic shine plus a visible net over the scales. If it shines and is netted, Kujaku is the first name to check. |
The variety in Japanese koi culture
Kujaku, named for the peacock, combines two effects that rarely sit together: the metallic lustre of the Hikarimono group and a Matsuba-style black netting that outlines every scale. The fish therefore changes with the light — pattern from above, glitter from the side. It is a comparatively modern variety and a favourite for visitors because it photographs exactly as richly as it looks. Judging weighs the evenness of the net as heavily as the red pattern beneath it.
Keeping notes on this page are limited to generally published principles about the variety in Japan. This page gives no diagnosis, no treatment and no prescription for an individual pond or fish. For a fish that looks unwell, contact a veterinarian or your local fisheries office.
Sources: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA — summary in our own words, credit only); All Japan Nishikigoi Promotion Association official; Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) and Finance Ministry trade statistics as published; Japanese Agricultural Standard (JAS) for nishikigoi variety names and definitions (2022); Niigata Prefecture, Ojiya City, Nagaoka City (Yamakoshi) and Nishikigoi no Sato official; Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) visitor statistics; USDA APHIS and Australian DAFF official import guidance. Checked 6 November 2026.