A Guide to

Rokugani Heraldry

1
by David Horne
 Heraldry in Rokugan is less formal than heraldry in the West. All samurai
sworn to a Clan wear the mon, or Clan symbols and colours. Nobles often wear a
kamishimo or small vest over the kimono that bears the mon, on formal occasions.
A samurai wear his Clan’s mon the back, and the mon of his Family on his left
sleeve close to his heart, or his right sleeve to guide his sword.

A samurai usually incorporates his Clan’s colours into his formal clothing;
private clothing tends to be drab grays and browns. Samurai often wear hats for
formal occasions, which can be very simple or very extravagant, depending upon
the wearer’s mood.

Heraldry can be broken by Clan, Family, house and individual. Typically,

heraldry is done by a combination of two colours: a dark, and a light. The crest of
the Family is a simple, elegant design intended to symbolically identify that house
within the Great Clan to which it owes fealty. Usually, the colours are the same as
the Clan’s, differing only in intensity and hue. Each major Family has its own mon,
and each vassal Family has a variation of that major Family’s mon. This can
become extremely complex, particularly for a courtier who attempts to determine if
an approaching bad of bushi are friend or foe.

Many of the motifs represented in the mon are based on nature, particularly
animals with which the Clan identifies to (the Crab, the Scorpion, etc.). The
Imperial mon is the Chrysanthemum, and only members of the direct Hantei line
may wear that particular crest. Other representatives of the Emperor wear the crest
of his Emerald Champion, the laurel wreath.

The Imperial Court often flies flags over the current residence of the
Emperor, to show his authority. These flags, known as ban, bear the Imperial mon,
followed by the mon of the Clan and Family hosting the Emperor.

Another type of ban is the smaller, rectangular-shaped banners carried

during travel, or on the field. These ban, known as hata, are the source of the
respected office of hatamoto, or “banner bearers”, for such advisors carry of the
daimyo’s words to the rest of his Clan.

It is not unusual for a samurai to be granted his own mon by his daimyo.
Such things arise for notable honour or courage, and are not passed from father to
son. To be granted one’s own mon is a personal honour, one which speaks highly
of the samurai. If the samurai is particularly impressive, the mon may be extended
to his house, and from there, to any vassals the samurai procures.
 Example: If you were to see the mon of a lesser samurai, Shosuro Juti, it
might follow this format: The top of his banner displays the mon of his Clan (the
Scorpion). Juti’s own kimono would represent the colours and mon of his house,
the Shosuro. If a viewing courtier looked more closely, she would notice a smaller
mon on the sleeve of his kimono that stated his name (Juti).2

The mon is not just the symbol of the people currently in the Clan. It also
represents the souls of all the ancestors of the Clan, and therefore the mon should
never be treated with disrespect. To do so would insult all the ancestors of that
house or Family.

When a samurai wears the mon of his Clan he always wears it on his back
as a gesture of respect. The Family mon can be worn over the left shoulder so his
ancestors are closer to his heart or over the right shoulder so they can guide his
sword arm.3

The general Sun Tao once said that when a samurai sees himself
surrounded by a sea of his Clan’s colours, he cannot fail, and when he sees the
horizon blanketed in a sea of his enemy’s colours, he truly knows defeat. It is thus
that every Great and Minor Clan has colours that symbolize membership in their
Clan. A samurai’s armour will always be crafted in the colours of his Clan, as will
most of his courtly attire. While it is not expressly forbidden for a samurai to wear
other colours in more casual settings, most wear their Clan’s colours as often as
possible as a sign of loyalty.4

2
Winter Court - Kyuden Seppun, p. 57-58
3
Way of the Crane, p. 22
4
Legend of the Five Rings 3rd Edition revised core rulebook, p. 72
 5

5
by Jason Engle
 Sources and Credits

Sources and Explanations

This document is a fan-made supplement for the Legend of the Five Rings
setting. While it is not official all the information, save the introductory texts, is
canon and referenced.

This document is a compilation of information on heraldry. Heraldry is not

just mon and chops. It is also about colours, shapes and words. Mon are the
immerged part of the iceberg, but there are numerous ways to properly show, and
discover, one’s allegiance. The intent of this document is to show all aspects of
Rokugani heraldry. All pictures present an iconic aspect of heraldry in Rokugan, be
it a banner, armour or kimono.

The text information is from, in no particular order: the “Way of”

clanbooks (Crab, Crane, Dragon, Lion, Phoenix, Scorpion, Unicorn, Minor Clans,
Shadowlands, Brotherhood of Shinsei and Wolf), “Secrets of the Crab”, “Secrets of
the Dragon”, “Legend of the Five Rings 3rd Edition revised core rulebook”,
“Bearers of Jade”, “Winter Court - Kyuden Seppun”, “Way of the Shugenja”,
“Way of the Samurai” and from the fiction “To Change the World” by Rich Wulf.

The art in this file are the sole property of Alderac Entertainment Group
and their authors: Christopher Appel, Steve Argyle, Drew Baker, Miguel Coimbra,
Edwin David, John Donahue, Jason Engle, David Horne, Ijur, Jaime Jones, Okita
and Bagus Hutomoto from Imaginary Friends Studios, Michael Komarck,
Lasahido, April Lee, Glen Osterberger, Terekjet, Charles Urbach and Mario
Wibisono. Art pieces have a link to their Internet location or at least to the artist’s
website when pin-pointing was not possible the piece.

The pictures of mon in this document are from four different websites:
Heroes of Rokugan, The Jade Hand, Evan’s Ville Gaming Guild and L5RWikia,
and an artist SpookyElectric. A few mon are personal creations.
 In accordance with the timeline neutrality approach of the 4th Edition of the
Legend of the Five Rings role-playing game, choices were made:
The old Hiruma Family is considered gone with the death of Hiruma
Sokokai and the loss of the advanced techniques of the Hiruma Family, in 755 of
the Isawa calendar; the Hiruma Castle fell to the Shadowlands in 716.
The Yasuki Family is associated to both the Crab and Crane Clan, each
Clan getting a specific version.
The Minor Clans who joined a Great Clan: Centipede, Falcon, Fox and
Wasp, are recorded with the Great Clan they joined but get a double title, as
Family and Minor Clan.
The Agasha Family is presented in both Dragon and Phoenix Clans. The
Utaku and Otaku Family are one Family section.
The Spider are not considered a Great Clan yet, however that should be
changing soon because of the MegaGame; once it is done, and when Spider
Families get a mon, the changes will be applied.

Colours of the mon may vary, depending on the book and the edition, when
that is the case, both versions are presented.

The black and white mon are for viewers to express their artistic vibes and
create their own.

It has to be noted that some mon from Wikia are non-canon representations.
They use approximations of the design and different colours than those appearing
or mentioned in the books. They are presented only to offer an alternative.
 Credits and Contributors

The first thanks goes to the Legend of the Five Rings Story and Design
Teams, for making Rokugan setting so rich we have to compile information not to
get lost in it.

A big thanks to Kakita Seigi and his website Kaze no Shiro, for hosting my
files; the title of the document is his idea.

Special thanks to Okuma, for finding obscure and hidden information

where no man had ever been before; the “Dojo and Holdings” section is
shamelessly based upon his own work about heraldry in Rokugan.

A design thanks to jim pinto, for his insightful feedback.

Thank you SpookyElectric, for giving me permission to add your mon art.

Thanks to Alderac Entertainment Group, for letting me use the art.

A final thanks to the artists, for, well, the art.

 Table of Contents

A Guide to Rokugani Heraldry 1

Sources and Credits 4
Sources and Explanations 4
Credits and Contributors 6
Table of Contents 7
Mons and Colours 11
The Crab 12
Crab Clan 14
Hida Family 14
Hiruma Family 15
Kaiu Family 16
Kuni Family 16
Yasuki Family 17
Toritaka Family and Falcon Clan 17
The Crane 18
Crane Clan 20
Doji Family 20
Kakita Family 21
Asahina Family 21
Daidoji Family 22
Yasuki Family 23
The Dragon 24
Dragon Clan 26
Togashi Family 26
Mirumoto Family 27
Agasha Family 27
Kitsuki Family 28
Hitomi Family 28
Hoshi Family 29
Tamori Family 29
The Lion 30
Lion Clan 32
Akodo Family 32
Matsu Family 33
Ikoma Family 33
Kitsu Family 34
The Mantis 35
Mantis Clan and Yoritomo Family 37
Tsuruchi Family and Wasp Clan 37
Moshi Family and Centipede Clan 37
Kitsune Family and Fox Clan 38
The Phoenix 39
Phoenix Clan 41
Shiba Family 41
Isawa Family 42
Asako Family 43
Agasha Family 44
The Scorpion 45
Scorpion Clan 47
Bayushi Family 47
Shosuro Family 48
Soshi Family 48
Yogo Family 49
The Unicorn 50
Unicorn Clan 52
Shinjo Family 52
Utaku and Otaku Family 53
Iuchi Family 53
Ide Family 54
Moto Family 55
Horiuchi Family 56
Imperial 57
The Emperor 59
 Otomo Family 59
Seppun Family 59
Miya Family 60
Emerald Champion and Emerald Magistrates 60
Jade Champion and Jade Magistrates 60
Yotsu Family 61
Minor Clans 62
Badger Clan 64
Bat Clan 64
Boar Clan 64
Dragonfly Clan 65
Hare Clan 65
Monkey Clan 65
Ox Clan 66
Snake Clan 66
Sparrow Clan 66
Tortoise Clan 67
Other Factions 68
The Brotherhood of Shinsei 70
Toturi’s Army and Legion of the Wolf 70
The Jade Hand 70
Nezumi and One Tribe 71
The Naga 71
Shadowlands Horde 72
The Moto Black Guard 72
The Spider 73
Dojo and Holdings 74
The Crab 75
Kuni Wastes 75
The Witch Hunters 77
The Damned 78
The Crane 80
Kyuden Doji 80
 Kakita Duelling Academy 80
Kosaten Shiro 80
The Dragon 81
Mountain Home Dojo 81
Togashi Testing Grounds 81
The Lion 82
Shiro No Yojin 82
The Mantis 83
Dojo Raiden 83
The Phoenix 84
Asako Inquisitors 84
The Scorpion 86
Dojo of Lies 86
Dojo of the Closed Eye 86
The Unicorn 87
Gatherer of Winds Dojo 87
 Mons and Colours
This section is the most prominent of the document, as mon account for the
biggest part of Rokugani heraldry. However, as titled, official Clans’ and Families’
colours are in it too, and for Families or Clans having one; mottos are also
presented.

Each mon has a particular significance and history. Some are known
Empire-wide, such as the Emperor’s mon and the Isawa mon, others are so obscure
they have gone forgotten, but every mon means the world to the Clan and Family
members who wear it.

Colours are primarily important for clothing, as samurai make a habit of

wearing their Clan’s colours, especially in formal setting. Also, Families’ and
Clan’s colours do not always match, even though, more often than not, Families
use at least one colour from the Clan mon.

6
by Bagus Hutomoto
 7

7
by Michael Komarck
8
by Miguel Coimbra
 9

10

9
by Steve Argyle
10
by Miguel Coimbra
 Crab Clan
Gunmetal-grey, blue and brick red.11

Hida Family
All Crab families, with the exception of the Yasuki, integrate the image of a
crab into their mon – reflecting their position in a larger entity and their
responsibilities to that entity.

The Hida mon depicts a blue crab on a field of slate-grey, clutching a

tetsubo in its pincers. It signifies both the Family’s great strength and their duties
as sentinels for the Emperor.12

11
Legend of the Five Rings 3rd Edition revised core rulebook, p. 72
12
Way of the Crab, p. 36
 Hiruma Family
“A single fire against the darkness always burns brightest”
Since the Hiruma have taken back their ancestral lands, they no longer feel
a burning shame attached to their Family name. Thus, they have adopted a crest
and motto for their children to pass down the generations that symbolizes their
place in the Empire.13

From the year 755 to the year 1130

No mon. No saying. The Hiruma do not live so long as their land is gone.14

Old Hiruma

15

13
Secrets of the Crab, p. 36
14
Way of the Crab, p. 38
15
The old mon of the Hiruma Family can be seen on the back of a samurai, on page 58 of
Bearers of Jade
 Kaiu Family
The Kaiu mon represents their sturdiness and position as the great
foundation of the Clan. It portrays the blood-red claw of a crab, surrounded by
bricks, on a field of white. The bricks represent protectiveness a shield against
danger, while the claw represents hidden weapons, striking if their defence is ever
breached.16

Kuni Family
The Kuni mon is a pair a red crab claws over a cream-colored field and
surrounded by a circle of blue. It represents the Kuni’s search for the great
mysteries of the universe, and reminds them that such mysteries may often be
found within themselves.17

16
Way of the Crab, p. 39
17
Way of the Crab, p. 41
 Yasuki Family
“May your cup always be full, and hands never be empty.”
The Yasuki mon is a stark contrast to the other Crab families. It depicts a
golden carp surrounding a flower of deep azure. The car is considered an animal of
good fortune, and the mon is intended to bring wealth and prosperity to all the
Yasuki under it.18

Toritaka Family and Falcon Clan

Dark gray and forest-green.19

18
Way of the Crab, p. 44
19
Way of the Minor Clans, p.3
 20

21

20
by Steve Argyle
21
by Okita
 22

23

22
by Steve Argyle
23
by Edwin David
 Crane Clan
Sky-blue and white.24

Doji Family
“Be more concerned with good actions than with great ones.”
A crane holding an eight-pointed snowflake in its beak.

The words which are the motto of the Doji Family where the last spoken by
Lady Doji on the night of her death. It is said she came to the bedside of Doji
Ochiba, Doji Nio’s wife, and revealed her several secrets of the Doji’s household
which have been passed down from each Crane’s daimyo’s wife to her successor.25

26

24
Legend of the Five Rings 3rd Edition revised core rulebook, p. 72
25
Way of the Crane, p. 24
26
by SpookyElectric
 Kakita Family
“For the coward there is no life. For the hero there is no death.”
A crane’s wing, outstretched around an unsheathed katana.

The unsheathed katana is the symbol of war, and to the Kakita Family it is
also a reminder that they must always be ready to defend the Crane house and
Imperial line from their enemies. For a thousand years, Kakita’s treatise, The
Sword, has been one of two predominant works on swordplay, and is taught in
nearly every school of bushido in Rokugan.27

27
Way of the Crane, p. 28
 Asahina Family
“Knowledge must be earned, not simply learned.”
A crane’s head, holding in its beak a peach blossom.

The peach tree is the primary wood used in the creation of fetishes and
nemuranai, and is used by the Asahina for many things. Because it is so integral to
their work, there are tremendous peach trees which line the road to the Asahina
temple. The peach blossom itself is the sign of change and of peace – two things
the Asahina wish their work to epitomize.28

28
Way of the Crane, p. 35
 Daidoji Family
“The spear waits not for his master, but rushes forth to guard the way.”29
A crane, wings outstretched above a snake, wrapped about a yari.

The Daidoji respect the spear as a weapon, and many of their bushi learn to
use a yari before they learn to use a katana. Their creed speaks of their readiness to
leap to the defence of the Crane – both in military and other matters. A Daidoji
bushi has his Clan’s mon tattooed on his wrists on the day on his gempukku, to
remind him of his sworn duty to the Crane.

29
Way of the Crane, p. 42
 Yasuki Family
Old Yasuki
“May your cup always be full, and hands never be empty.”30
A crane with a chrysanthemum.

This was the mon of the Yasuki before their break from the Crane Clan.
Since then, their mon has been changed to reflect their new position within the
Crab Clan, but the original Yasuki mon can still be found on ancient items. Many
of these items were destroyed – either by the Yasuki themselves or by the Daidoji
– but some few remain. They are considered very bad luck to the Yasuki; if at any
time one is brought within the walls of the Black Crane palace, it is said to bring a
year of bad trade and ill fortune.

30
Way of the Crane, p. 47
 31

32

31
by Edwin David
32
by April Lee
 33

34

33
by Edwin David
34
by Miguel Coimbra
 Dragon Clan
Emerald-green and yellow.35

Togashi Family
The mon of the Togashi Family is a dragon encircling and holding a plum
blossom. When Togashi broke his fast after Shinsei’s famous words – “neither will
I”, it was a plum that fell into Togashi’s hand for him to eat.36

These monks follow the teachings of Togashi, Kami and founder of the
Dragon Clan. They embrace a philosophy of enlightenment through spontaneity,
and value, humility, compassion, and a sense of humor.37

35
Legend of the Five Rings 3rd Edition revised core rulebook, p. 72
36
Way of the Dragon, p. 18
37
Secrets of the Dragon, p. 69
 Mirumoto Family
The mon of the Mirumoto Family is dragon encircling and holding a
daisho. For a thousand years, the Mirumoto samurai have employed their
patriarch’s technique, and it is recognized, if not respected, across Rokugan.38

39

Agasha Family
The mon of the Agasha Family is a dragon encircling and clinging to a
pomegranate. On the outside, the pomegranate is simple, appearing to be an
ordinary fruit like an apple or pear. Once opened, it reveals its many, many seeds,
all of which represent a separate possibility, a hundred different potentialities.40

38
Way of the Dragon, p. 24
39
by SpookyElectric
40
Way of the Dragon, p. 30
 Kitsuki Family
The mon of the Kitsuki Family is a dragon encircling and clinging to a
lightning bolt. The image is a curious one. The Kitsuki’s representation of
lightning is like a swirling maze. Lightning cuts through the darkness, revealing
what could not be seen before, and is representative of Osano-Wo, the Thunderer,
who brings the wrath of the gods to those whose deserve justice.41

Hitomi Family
The Order of Hitomi is the most feared and misunderstood of the Three
Orders. They follow the teachings of Hitotni, Lady Moon, the Dragon Thunder.
They embrace the philosophy of attaining enlightenment through physical and
mental hardship. Members of this order seek out impossible challenges through
which to prove their worth, and as a result the Hitomi have a reputation for
violence.42

43

41
Way of the Dragon, p. 32
42
Secrets of the Dragon, p. 70
43
by SpookyElectric
 Hoshi Family
The Hoshi are the smallest of the Three Orders. They embrace a philosophy
of enlightenment through balance and moderation. They see the Togashi and the
Hitomi as the embodiment of dissonance, and maintaining harmonious relations
between the two families is their greatest challenge. To the Hoshi, patience is the
greatest of all virtues. Power, wisdom, and all other virtues are of little worth if one
cannot master patience.44

Tamori Family

44
Secrets of the Dragon, p. 70
 45

46

45
by Edwin David
46
by Terekjet
 47

48

47
by Steve Argyle
48
by Steve Argyle
 Lion Clan
Gold and earth tones.49

Akodo Family
The Akodo mon is a lion’s face, full of dedication. It is a sharp contrast to
the blunt fury of the Matsu mon; the division of the face presents the Akodo’s dual
nature, as both accomplished warriors and learned thinkers.50

49
Legend of the Five Rings 3rd Edition revised core rulebook, p. 72
50
Way of the Lion, p. 22
 Matsu Family
The Matsu mon was crafted with their simple passion for war in mind. It
shows a sword, carried in a lion’s paw, raised to the heavens in defiance of any
who would challenge them.51

Ikoma Family
The Ikoma mon is an arched portal surrounding nothing. Though others
may see the Lion iconography upon it as more important, all Ikoma realize the
importance of the portal itself. Through each portal lies knowledge and ultimate
understanding, along with another portal and a greater vista. The path to
comprehension is never-ending, as each discovery leads to more questions.52

53

51
Way of the Lion, p. 33
52
Way of the Lion, p. 38
53
by SpookyElectric
 Kitsu Family
The Kitsu mon bears a striking resemblance to their fallen ancestor, before
he was made by Lady Sun to look like men. Kitsu remember the past, those who
have come before, and what they have done. Their mon is a memory, both of fallen
Kitsu and his legacy.54

54
Way of the Lion, p. 43
 55

56

55
by Michael Komarck
56
by Chris Appel
 57

58

57
by Edwin David
58
by Steve Argyle
 Mantis Clan and Yoritomo Family
Sea-green and black.59

Teal-green and gold.60

Tsuruchi Family and Wasp Clan

Black and gold.61

59
Legend of the Five Rings 3rd Edition revised core rulebook, p. 72
60
Way of the Minor Clans, p.3
61
Way of the Minor Clans, p.3
 Moshi Family and Centipede Clan
Orange, black and brown.62

Kitsune Family and Fox Clan

Red-brown and silver.63

62
Way of the Minor Clans, p.3
63
Way of the Minor Clans, p.3
 64

65

64
by Mario Wibisino
65
by Michael Komarck
 66

67

66
by Jason Engle
67
by Steve Argyle
 Phoenix Clan
Red, yellow and orange.68

68
Legend of the Five Rings 3rd Edition revised core rulebook, p. 72
 Shiba Family
The mon of the Shiba Family is a set of crossed swords, surmounted by the
flames of the Phoenix. While the background is a stoic black, the flames and
swords are done in vibrant gold and silver, symbolizing the eternal dedication of
the Shiba to their founder’s oath. There is a variant of the Shiba mon which is used
by those bushi who serve Isawa shugenja as yojimbo – the central area between the
swords then also contains the symbol of Void, stitched in shining gold.69

Shiba Yojimbo

69
Way of the Phoenix, p. 37
 Isawa Family
The mon bears the symbol of the Five Elements, symbolizing the arcane
ties which the Isawa have to the kami. The spiral pattern indicates their belief that
all things in nature are part of each other, bound by the fabric of eternity.

The mon of the Isawa may be the most widely known Family symbol in the
Empire, save only that of Hantei himself. Certainly it is worn by hundreds of
shugenja in all the Clans of Rokugan, showing their ties to the teachers of
spellcraft. Students who graduate from the Isawa schools, and even those who
simply for a few years after their graduation from the schools of other Clans, wear
the mark as a badge of pride.70

Much to Temoru's shock, the symbol adorning the City of Gold was not the
chop of Isawa as he had believed. Instead, the information he uncovered there
indicated that Isawa may have been born within the city and adopted its symbol as
his own when he left for Rokugan.71

70
Way of the Phoenix, p. 23
71
Secrets of the Dragon, p. 41
 Asako Family
The mon of the Asako is comprised of a simple hand, holding a quill. The
quill ends in flames symbolizing the Phoenix for whom the Family serves; the quill
itself is the sign of their devotion as historians and keepers of information. Asako
once used another mon – one with far more sinister overtones – but if it is true,
then that mon was lost long ago.72

Old Asako
The first man who had spoken was called Sagoten, another of the many
who created me. He bore the name of his mother, Asako. The symbol on his chest
was that of an open hand, the fingers stained in blood, the symbol his father created
to symbolize his family’s dedication to the magic Isawa taught them. That symbol
has long been forgotten. I wonder why? 73

72
Way of the Phoenix, p. 43
73
the old mon of the Asako Family is depicted in the fiction “To Change the World”
 Agasha Family
The mon of the Agasha Family is a dragon encircling and clinging to a
pomegranate. On the outside, the pomegranate is simple, appearing to be an
ordinary fruit like an apple or pear. Once opened, it reveals its many, many seeds,
all of which represent a separate possibility, a hundred different potentialities.74

74
Way of the Dragon, p. 30
 75

76

75
by Miguel Coimbra
76
by Edwin David
 77

78

77
by Michael Komarck
78
by Miguel Coimbra
 Scorpion Clan
Blood-red and black.79

Bayushi Family
The mon of the Bayushi Family is a scorpion surrounded by water. It is
often accompanied by the kanji “I can swim”.80

79
Legend of the Five Rings 3rd Edition revised core rulebook, p. 72
80
Way of the Scorpion, p. 24
 Shosuro Family
The mon of the Shosuro is an endless loop of intertwining ivy. It is the
eternal maze, the puzzle that may never be solved.81

Soshi Family
The mon of the Soshi Family is a scorpion with claws outstretched, a net
between them.82

81
Way of the Scorpion, p. 28
82
Way of the Scorpion, p. 29
 Yogo Family
The mon of the Yogo Family is a mask made of flaming feathers,
representing their lost heritage to the Phoenix Clan.83

83
Way of the Scorpion, p. 33
 84

85

84
by Steve Argyle
85
by Lasahido
 86

87

86
by Miguel Coimbra
87
by Drew Baker
 Unicorn Clan
Purple and white.88

When the Unicorn meet with outsiders, they tend to use the Unicorn mon.
However, in the Unicorn Clan, each Family has its own mon. A Family’s mon is
most often prominently displayed during Unicorn Clan gatherings. Finally, each
person or nuclear family within the Clan may have their own mon. Usually this is
simply the kanji character of their name, but other symbols have been used, and are
too numerous to be listed here.89

88
Legend of the Five Rings 3rd Edition revised core rulebook, p. 72
89
Way of the Unicorn, p. 35
 Shinjo Family
The Ki-Rin design in the Shinjo mon, is regarded by the Family as a
portrait of the original Shinjo in her true form. The Ki-Rin faces West, representing
Shinjo’s journey into that mysterious land. The flaming mane is swept back as the
creature runs free, a symbol of the Family’s spirit of freedom and exploration. The
colour scheme is black on bright orange, with fiery red around the edge.90

Utaku and Otaku Family

The Otaku mon is the simplest of Rokugan: a plain field of pale purple. It
represents the original Otaku’s silence, but can also be taken to represent her purity
of purpose. Many opponents, have learned, in some cases quite briefly, how
terrifying this banner can be when carried by a formation of charging, silent
shiotome, none of whom wish to dishonour their ancestor by uttering a battle cry.91

90
Way of the Unicorn, p. 44
91
Way of the Unicorn, p. 42
 Iuchi Family
Power is what you think it is.
The mon of the Iuchi Family clearly represents their devotion to the study
of magic. An open scroll flows across a deep blue field. The spirals incorporated in
the design represent the dynamic, fluid energy of magic, while the scroll
symbolises the Tao of Shinsei, on which the Iuchi base all their magical
interpretations.92

92
Way of the Unicorn, p. 41
 Ide Family
“Violence is the language of defeat, swords the tongues of the lost.”
- from the Ide Family standard banner
The Ide Family mon shows a gold-coloured hand open in friendship and
giving. The green octagon that forms the background represents the Emerald
Empire and the eight children who founded it. There is a variant of the Ide mon
also in use: those of the Family who choose to pursue magic (or, more rarely, war)
display the Ide mon with the fingers pointing up, as if it were poised to deliver a
jiujutsu strike.93

Non-courtier Ide

93
Way of the Unicorn, p. 40
 Moto Family
“Moto can die, but cannot yield.”
- from the Moto war banner, during the Blood War
“Never.”
- from the Moto war banner, present day
The mon of the Moto Family bears the face of death – a stylized mask of
intimidating determination that matches the ghostly white make-up worn by the
Moto samurai into battle. The mon is stark and grim, as the Moto are themselves,
and its appearance on the battlefield always seems to be followed by a
disconcerting chill and a mournful keening of the wind.

The Moto wear white armour with purple used only as highlights.

The loss of their Family’s honour through the vile sorceries of the
Shadowlands has had a profound effect on the remainder of the Moto Family. They
changed their Family mon to reflect their change of attitude. Instead of the
optimistic red chrysanthemum, their new banner bore a grim and threatening
kabuki face; and they replaced the motto on their war banner.

In spite of their grievous losses during the Blood War, the Family has
rebuilt. They have formed the White Guard, a military unit that embodies the
implacable determination and unyielding mettle of the Family.

Their armour is white and battered, ghostly white plumes and manes adorn
their helmets, and their faces are painted with stark white and black in frightening
masks of death.94

94
Way of the Unicorn, p. 44 to 46
Old Moto
 Horiuchi Family

95

95
a mon can be seen on the “Shinden Horiuchi” card, however it is unclear if it is a
stylised Unicorn mon or the Horiuchi Family mon; the former is more likely
 96

97

96
by Steve Argyle
97
by April Lee
 98

99

98
by April Lee
99
by Chris Appel
The Emperor

Otomo Family
 Seppun Family

100

Miya Family

100
by SpookyElectric
Emerald Champion and Emerald Magistrates

101

Jade Champion and Jade Magistrates

102

101
the mon of the Emerald Champion and Magistrates can be seen on the
“Test of the Emerald Champion” card
102
the mon of the Jade Champion and Magistrates can be seen on the
“Mantle of the Jade Champion” card
 Yotsu Family

103

103
a mon can be seen on “Yotsu Dojo” card, however it is unclear if it is the mon of the
Yotsu Dojo or the mon of the Yotsu Family
 104

105

104
by Glen Osterberger
105
by Ijur
 106

107

106
by Steve Argyle
107
by John Donahue
 Badger Clan
Brown and black.

Pale grey with stripes of black and white.109

Bat Clan
Black.110

108
Legend of the Five Rings 3rd Edition revised core rulebook, p. 72
109
Way of the Minor Clans, p.3
110
Legend of the Five Rings 3rd Edition revised core rulebook, p. 72
 Boar Clan
Dark blue and green.111

Dragonfly Clan
Blue, brown and gold.112

Jewel tones, in a rainbow of colour.113

111
Way of the Minor Clans, p.3
112
Legend of the Five Rings 3rd Edition revised core rulebook, p. 72
113
Way of the Minor Clans, p.3
 Hare Clan
Red and white.114

Monkey Clan
Orange and brown.115

114
Legend of the Five Rings 3rd Edition revised core rulebook, p. 72
115
Legend of the Five Rings 3rd Edition revised core rulebook, p. 72
 Ox Clan
Blue and black.116

Snake Clan
Silver, black and grey-purple.117

116
Legend of the Five Rings 3rd Edition revised core rulebook, p. 72
117
Legend of the Five Rings 3rd Edition revised core rulebook, p. 72
 Sparrow Clan
Shades of brown.

Dun-brown and black.119

Tortoise Clan
Light green and white.120

Blue-black and gold.121

118
Legend of the Five Rings 3rd Edition revised core rulebook, p. 72
119
Way of the Minor Clans, p.3
120
Legend of the Five Rings 3rd Edition revised core rulebook, p. 72
121
Way of the Minor Clans, p.3
 122

123

122
by Jaime Jones
123
by Steve Argyle
 124

125

124
by Steve Argyle
125
by Edwin David
 The Brotherhood of Shinsei

Toturi’s Army and Legion of the Wolf

Nezumi and One Tribe

The Naga
 Shadowlands Horde
The newest symbol borne by the minions of darkness is the scowling oni
emblazed upon Yogo Junzo’s battle standard. Junzo claims that the design of the
mon came to him in a dream, a vision in which the diverse creatures of darkness
were unified beneath a single leader. He call this army the Shadowlands Horde.
When the true leader of the Horde returns, Yogo Junzo intends to make certain his
armies are waiting.126

The Moto Black Guard

The mon of the Moto Black Guard is a hideous caricature of the mon
utilised by the Unicorn Moto. The colours of the mon have been inverted and the
kabuki’s mask trademark frown has been replaced with a sinister grin. The mon
was not created as a parody of the Moto mon, as many believe. The two were
developed independently, at the same time. The Tainted Moto believe it signifies
the brotherhood they share with their “confused brethren”. The Unicorn Moto
would rather not think about what the coincidence symbolises.127

126
Way of the Shadowlands, p. 32
127
Way of the Shadowlands, p. 24
 The Spider
Black and white.128

The Jade Hand

129

128
Legend of the Five Rings 3rd Edition revised core rulebook, p. 72
129
The mon of the Jade Hand can be seen on the “Hiruma Kaikawa” card
 Dojo and Holdings
Unlike Clans and Families, which all follow the same pattern of mon and
colours, dojo have another mean for individuals to show their allegiance. Every
way of honouring the school and sensei is unique to each schooling facility.

However, Rokugani heraldry extends further than the personal display of

loyalty on clothing or banners, and holdings play their own part on the heraldic
scene. By having easily identifiable buildings, Clans and factions make it clear to
outsiders whose territory it is, while strengthening the unity of those living in them.

130

130
by Charles Urbach
 Kuni Wastes
The Kuni Family practices a ritual of face painting, similar in many ways to
the kabuki make-up worn by many Kakita actors. Under ideal circumstances, the
make-up is applied each day after awakening. The methodical application of the
paint can take up to an hour, as each line on the face has a meaning known only to
the individual in question. Even the Kuni do not know where this tradition
originated, or what purpose it serves.

Kuni shugenja show respect to their sensei’s by wearing a style of face

paint similar to their sensei’s. Those familiar with Kuni heraldry can identify a
Kuni’s sensei, and his sensei’s sensei, by the style of his war paint. Due to Kuni
tendency to relocate children to live with their sensei from an early age, Kuni are
often closer to their sensei than their parents.131

132

131
Way of the Shugenja, p. 22
132
by David Horne
 133

134

133
by Okita
134
by Steve Argyle
 The Witch Hunters
The Jade seal carried by the Kuni Witch Hunter is a combination of the
crossed claws of the Kuni Family mon and the open eye of the Asako Inquisitors.
The crossed claws represent the ever-present defense offered by the tsukai-sagasu.
The open eye symbolizes the eternal vigilance of their allies, the Inquisitors. These
seals are only carried by the Kuni, and are often enhanced by the Jade Eternal spell
so that they are more difficult to corrupt. The Witch Hunters are quite unforgiving
toward the rare fools that dare to lake counterfeit Witch Hunter badges.135

136

137

135
Way of the Shadowlands, p. 31
136
Way of the Shadowlands, p. 85
137
Way of the Shadowlands, p. 26
 The Damned
The Damned have their own peculiar heraldry, mostly to warn friendly
units of their presence. The mon of the Damned is simply the mon of whatever
Family the bushi belonged to before, marred with a splash of blood-red. The
default mon of the damned is that of the Hida, as more Hida have fallen to the
Taint than any other samurai.138

139

140

138
Way of the Shadowlands, p. 37
139
Way of the Shadowlands, p. 52
140
by Charles Urbach
 Kyuden Doji
Students at Kyuden Doji can be recognised by the symbol of the court fan
spread beneath the Family mon on their kimono.141

Kakita Duelling Academy

The symbol of the Academy is a single strike of silver, signifying the
lightning strike of Kakita himself. The strike appears on the right side of the
students’ Family mon on their kimono.142

Kosaten Shiro
The students of Kosaten Shiro are easily recognisable by the twin crossed
yari beneath the Family mon on their kimono or armour.143

144

141
Way of the Samurai, p. 24
142
Way of the Samurai, p. 26
143
Way of the Samurai, p. 27
144
by Charles Urbach
 Mountain Home Dojo
Students of Mountain Home may display their dojo by placing the
mountain in front of the dragon on their Family mon, instead of the usual dragon
design coiled in front of the mountain. This shows that the mountains are their
protection and their home, and also symbolises that they are the mountain that
defends the Dragon Clan.145

Togashi Testing Grounds

Those tattooed monks who survive a passage through the Togashi Testing
Grounds receive a special badge to display their capabilities. This badge is a (non-
magical) tattoo of a dragon scale on the tattooed monk's body for every day he
survived in the Testing Grounds.146

147

145
Way of the Shugenja, p. 36
146
Secrets of the Dragon, p. 69
147
by Charles Urbach
 Shiro No Yojin
Notorious for their aggressive and unforgiving nature, the students of Shiro
no Yojin are equally renowned for their unbridled ferocity in battle. They are
noticeable because of the red edge on the sleeve of their otherwise traditional
kimono. The red signifies the blood of the enemies the samurai will slay in the
name of his Clan.148

149

148
Way of the Samurai, p. 43
149
by Charles Urbach
 Dojo Raiden
The training that each student receives at Dojo Raiden places a great deal of
emphasis on the non-combat portions of a samurai’s duty. Many students choose to
tattoo the “mon of the cliff-face” onto their wrists after their gempukku, to honour
their school. The mon is not official, and does not appear in any heraldic record,
but can be easily recognised by anyone familiar with the dojo.150

151

150
Way of the Samurai, p. 48
151
by Charles Urbach
 Asako Inquisitors
The Phoenix order of Inquisitors was founded in response to the corruption
of Isawa Akuma, though for many years they were little more than Clan
magistrates defending the Phoenix Clan from internal corruption. After the rise of
Iuchiban, the jurisdiction of the Inquisitors was extended across the entire Empire,
and they become an official sub-group of the Emerald Magistrates.

Over the years, the Inquisitors have worked alongside the Kuni Witch
Hunters and, for the past few decades, the magistrates of the revived office of Jade
Champion. The Asako, left largely to their own device by the Phoenix, have
assumed the responsibility of overseeing the Inquisitors as they continue their
crusade against maho and corruption. The Inquisitors can be readily identified by
the strange eye tattoos that they bear on their palms. These tattoos are magical,
enhancing the Inquisitor’s already great perceptive talents. In the past, when the
Dragon and Phoenix were allies, the Togashi Family provided these tattoos. In
recent times, the Agasha have taken up the duty of crafting these tattoos. (The
Agasha are not able to recreate the Dragon tattoos; they have mastered only the
relatively simple Inquisitor tattoo).152

153

152
Way of the Shugenja, p. 60
153
Way of the Shadowlands, p. 26
 154

154
by Charles Urbach
 Dojo of Lies
The preeminent school of the Scorpion courtiers is home to both the most
affable and the most dangerous members of the Clan. This reputation leaves many
wondering if their pleasant Scorpion companion is plotting their downfall or is
truly fond of them. Students of the Dojo of Lies honour their dojo by removing the
tail from any Scorpion appearing on their garments (save those on the Clan
mon).155

Dojo of the Closed Eye

The Soshi Family is hesitant to admit those from outside their Family.
Other Scorpion occasionally gain admittance into the shugenja dojo, but arte never
truly accepted as one of the Family.

Students of the Dojo of the Closed Eye honour their school by removing the
eyes from the Soshi mon.156

157

155
Way of the Samurai, p.64
156
Way of the Shugenja, p.65
157
by Charles Urbach
 Gatherer of Winds Dojo
Students of the Gatherer of Winds Dojo generally denote their school by
having a small white or grey kanji for “Air” stitched on the lower part of their
Family mon.158

159

158
Way of the Shugenja, p. 70
159
by Charles Urbach