The Japanese narrative picture scroll; emaki; is ideal for presenting heroic military sagas, biographies of important peoples, histories of famous places, and tales of romance and courtly intrigue.

The process of viewing a handscroll section by section allows the painter to create a cinematic effect.As the composition is gradually revealed, the story unfolds and dramatic anticipation builds. Between viewings, the handscroll is kept in a specially made, fitted box that helps to protect it from damage, humidity, and insects. Before viewing, it is removed from the box and placed on a flat surface, usually a low table.This process gives the viewer time to focus his attention so that he can become fully engaged with the work of art at hand.The silk cord used to bind it is untied, folded over, and tucked away.To view the scroll, it is unrolled about an arm's length, moving from right to left. As one section is completed, the viewer opens the next, revealing only one portion at a time.

In addition to enjoying the painting, the viewer examines any inscriptions and seals to deepen his appreciation and understanding of the scroll.

When viewing is finished, the handscroll is carefully re-rolled to the beginning,providing a brief opportunity to review the scenes and reflect on them.The scroll is re-tied, and returned to its box until the next encounter.