Kore Wa Hon ni Nai Rick Polland

“Kore wa Hon ni nai” 　これは　本にない　“It’s not in the book”

This article is about Heijo Kyo, an ancient capitol modeled on China.  Set to the cardinal points of the compass there are defining aspects much like feng shui that also as specific colors and mythological animals to guarantee an auspicious blessing on the location.  Today many famous dojo names such as "Genbu" come from this concept.

• North: Genbu:  Turtle w/ Snake's Head
• East:  Seiryu:  Blue Dragon
• South:  Suzaku:  Red Peacock
• West:  Byakuko:  White Tiger w/ Dog's Head