This book presents a variety of Japanese mythical beasts, such as Kirin, Byakko (White Tiger), Suzaku (Vermilion Bird), Genbu (Black Tortoise), Ho-o (Fenghuang), and Ryu (Japanese Dragon), some of which originally came from Chinese mythology in ancient times. Most of featured works, mainly from 12th century to 19th century, are in the motifs of the sacred animals painted by artists such as Kawanabe Kyosai, Ito Jakuchu, Utagawa Kuniyoshi and more.