Sanshoku

Sanshoku, literally "three colors" in Japanese, is a term used to describe anything that features three distinct colors or color-based groupings. In everyday language it can refer to tri-color food presentations, art, or design.

In Riichi Mahjong, Sanshoku refers to two related yakus: Sanshoku Doujun and Sanshoku Doukou. Sanshoku Doujun (three-color straight) requires the hand to contain a sequence of the same numbers in all three suits, for example 1-2-3 in man, 1-2-3 in pin, and 1-2-3 in sou. The sequences can be in any order, and the hand may be concealed or open.

Sanshoku Doukou (three-color triplets) requires triplets of the same numbers in the three suits, such as 111 in man, 222 in pin, and 333 in sou. As with many Riichi rules, the exact scoring value depends on whether the hand is closed and on local conventions; some rule sets distinguish closed versus open values.

Beyond games, sanshoku describes dishes or presentations that use three colors to create visual balance, such as tri-color rice bowls or platters intended to showcase harmony and freshness. The term is also used in general Japanese design to indicate tri-color schemes.