The Five Ancient Races were the rulers of the world that would become Rokugan, before humanity became the dominant race of the mortal realm.
These races reside in disparate corners of Rokugan, shadows of their former selves but as dangerous as ever. This includes the Ningyo. After the Five Ancient Races another race, the Naga, dwelled in the lands that later became Rokugan.
- Kitsu - Noble and Intelligent feline beings resembling a cross between human beings and lions, with thick manes and golden eyes.
- Ningyo - A race of fish-like humanoids, who dwelled in the deep waters lapping at the shores of the Emerald Empire.
- Tengu - A race of bird-like, solitary, humanoid creatures with large wings that did not age, having centuries to practice the sword.
- Troll - Ancient and mysterious beings. Intelligent but often belligerent, wise but often short-tempered.
- Zokujin - A race of small reptilian humanoids. Little is known.
- Naga - Sixth Race that came later. Race of serpent-folk who dwell within the Shinomen Mori.