NHK will be broadcasting a documentary on the famous “Choujuu Jinbutsu Giga” scrolls on 17th May. “JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure” author Hirohiko Araki, as well as prominent art historians and Japanese literary figures, will be making appearances on the show, discussing the artistic merits and historical significance of the “Choujuu Jinbutsu Giga” scrolls .

“Choujuu Jinbutsu Giga” (literally “Animal-person Caricatures”), commonly shortened to Chōjū-giga or “animal caricatures”, is a famous set of four picture scrolls depicting animals frolicking like humans. Belonging to the Kōzan-ji temple in Kyoto, “Choujuu Jinbutsu Giga” is credited as the oldest work of manga. The scrolls are now entrusted to the Kyoto National Museum and Tokyo National Museum.