Kirin

[ManaMinori 4,145]

In the world of Equestria, we have the Kirin race that have become rather popular among the fanbase. And throughout the course of MLP's 35 year history (including g4) it  would seem that ponies, at least, were known to be nomads for various reasons. Do you guys see the Kirin- being very equine in appearance and biology, having been the same? Would they be  more closely related to Japanese or Chinese culture n the world of Equestria? (such as close relatives of the unicorns of Mistmane's Asian-esque race?) or perhaps closer to the Japanese "Osharena" ponies of g1?

 

 

[Dashy 4 Ever 4,835]

Well, it depends on their traits I suppose...

I probably think they're Japanese.

Edited December 8, 2018 by Sondash Studios

[Misty Shadow 7,909]

I do believe that Kirin would be more closely related to Chinese and Japanese culture since they are from Chinese and Japanese culture, after all.  Seriously, look it up. Kirin originate from East Asian culture and the word, "kirin", is just the Japanese word for the Chinese name, "qilin". 

[Jeric 46,852]

The unicorns in Mistmane’s village are only close relatives? Since when? They look like unicorns with just a different trait to me. Quite different from the Kirin that possess a few very unique additions that would likely give them a different taxonomy. 

Anyway, Kirin are East Asian in origin. The story surrounding them in the show is also surprisingly Asian in origin particularly the concept of gaman. It is a term I first heard when talking to George Takei. He related his time at the internment camps to the word which means sort of a mix between denial of self and suffering or beating pain with dignity and silence. Obviously you see the connection with the story. 

He said that there is a time for gaman, and a time to yield a shield and use your voice. Just some random thoughts about a great episode. 

[Ganondorf8 11,321]

I'm with Jeric on this one. The Kirin have their origins with East Asia if you look them up and read the available information on them. Because of this, they don't have a direct relation to ponies though there are some common traits.