Doubutsu Kato

Doubutsu Kato is a bustling, independent city that exists at the crossroads of the spiritual world. Beyond the heights of the rose wall is a vast population containing a multitude of races, tribes, and creeds. Of the various races that dwell here, the henge yokai command the greatest wealth and respect. Among these shape-shifting animal tribes, the twelve most illustrious and powerful, whom are known as the twelve tribes of the zodiac, rule over Doubutsu Kato.

Origins
It isn't clear which tribe founded Doubutsu Kato, although many would exhuberantly proclaim it. Being at a crossroads between the material world, the spiritual realms, and the dark lands of the hollows, it was well positioned as a trading post and waypoint for travelers. More likely than not the city now known as Doubutsu Kato predated the henge yokai tribes, who came to reside here afterward. The rulership of the twelve tribes of the zodiac has provided an era of unprecendented prosperity and security for the residents of Doubutsu Kato by defending them from hollow attacks, and consequently, the population has flourished.

Customs & Traditions
Doubutsu Kato is a hodgepodge of various cultures and traditions, and navigating the city can be extremely confusing, as one block to the next may be comprised of entirely differing ethnicities, colors, and even architectures. The one underlying philosophy the residents of Doubutsu Kato hold, is a respect for life and personal expression. Here, the life and desires of even a small animal is measured as equal to that of a human.

Outer City

 * Rose Wall
 * 12 Celestial Mansions

Inner City

 * Wards
 * Kato District

Trivia

 * I am using the present tense in writing this article, because I think it sounds more formal, and since the information contained herein is to be used for Turn Back the Pendulum: Sengoku.