PUBLIC MARKS from ainos with tags kamon & symboles

Guess how many kamon, family crests, exist in Japan! Well, there are about 20,000 with each one of them having a rich historical background. Impressive! So, kamon with a hollyhock, chrysanthemum, star or moon design are just beginning: For today, PingMag introduces you to the genki world of Japanese kamon with tons of fabulous animal symbols.

The concept of the Family Crest in Japan is still alive today, although its identified history goes far back to the beginning of the 12th century. Generally, the Family Crest in Japan is called KA-MON, KA means "family with own genealogical trees" and MON means "crest" or "emblem". Similarly, in European history, the concept of Heraldry and use of unique Shield of Arms or Coat of Arms also existed, with its history tracing back to a similar period in the 12th century.