We show you the most exciting stories of Japanese Mythology. Discover with us all its eternal legends and myths.
Japanese Mythology
Japanese mythology is the set of stories compiled from oral traditions about legends, gods, ceremonies, customs, practices and historical accounts of the Japanese people.
It has a long history dating back more than 2,000 years. It became part of two major religious traditions: Shinto, an indigenous religion, and Buddhism, which developed in India and came to Japan from China and Korea.
This mythology of Japan includes a large number of gods, goddesses and spirits. Most of the stories concern the creation of the world, the founding of the islands of Japan, and the activities of deities, humans, animals, spirits, and magical creatures. Some myths describe characters and events associated with particular places in Japan. Others are set in legendary places, such as the sky or the underworld.
Origin of Japanese mythology
For many centuries myths were passed down orally in Japan. In A . D. 712, a written version of mythology, the Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters), was compiled for the Japanese imperial court. The Kojiki accounts tell of the creation of the world, the origin of the gods, and the ancestry of the Japanese emperors, who claimed descent from the sun goddess Amaterasu.
In the Japanese creation myth, the first deities that emerged at the time of the creation of the universe are collectively called Kotoamatsukami.
Later, the seven generations of kami, known as Kamiyonanayo “Seven Generations of the Age of Gods,” arose, following the formation of heaven and earth.
The first two generations are individual deities called hitorigami, while the next five were born as pairs of male and female kami: brothers and sisters who were also married couples. In this chronicle, the Kamiyonanayo comprise 12 deities in total.
In contrast, the Nihon Shoki states that the Kamiyonanayo group was the first to appear after the creation of the universe, as opposed to the Kamiyonanayo who appeared after the formation of heaven and earth. It also states that the first three generations of deities are hitorigami (individual deities) and that later generations of deities are pairs of the opposite gender, as compared to the two generations of hitorigami of the Kojiki.
Periods of Japanese mythology
One of the standard classifications of the periods of Japanese Shinto mythology reduces it to four main periods:
Before the advent of Buddhism
During this period there was no formal Shinto religion, but many local cults that today are grouped under the name Shinto.
Like many prehistoric peoples, the early inhabitants of Japan were probably animists; dedicated to the spirits of nature. In their case, these were the Kami found in plants and animals, mountains and seas, storms and earthquakes, sand and all significant natural phenomena.
The early Japanese developed rituals and stories that allowed them to make sense of their universe, creating a spiritual and cultural world that gave them historical roots, and a way of seeming to take control of their lives, in what would otherwise have been a frightening and bewildering landscape.
Shinto and Buddhism together
From the 6th century AD onwards, the beliefs now known as Shintoism were greatly altered by the addition of other ingredients.
Shinto was the only religion in Japan until the arrival of Buddhism in the 6th century AD. Thereafter, Shinto religions and traditions took on Buddhist and, later, Confucian elements. Some Shinto shrines became Buddhist temples, existed within Buddhist temples or had Buddhist priests in charge. Buddhist temples were built and Buddhist ideas were explored.
The ruling aristocracy saw advantages in drawing on Shinto, Confucianism and Buddhism to guide the Japanese people. In the same period, the government assumed a role in religion with the establishment of the “Department for Deity Affairs.”
Shinto and Buddhism
Shinto had a disadvantage compared to Buddhism and Confucianism in its lack of complex intellectual doctrines. This meant that the development of Japanese theology and philosophy was inevitably based on the comparative intellectual richness of this two concepts.
Buddhism began to expand significantly, and was given a role in supporting the growing influence of the central government.
As time went on, the Japanese became increasingly accustomed to including both Kami and Buddhist ideas in their spiritual lives. Philosophers proposed the idea that kami were “transformations of the Buddha manifested in Japan to save all sentient beings.”
During the 7th and 8th centuries the emperor’s spiritual status as a descendant of the Sun Goddess Amaterasu became official doctrine, and was supported by rituals and the establishment of Ise shrines as the shrines of the divine imperial family.
Influence in government
During the following centuries, Buddhist influence in government became increasingly strong, despite the DÕkyÕ affair in the middle of the 8th century. Between the 11th and 15th centuries, Japanese government was in the hands of three interdependent power blocs: the court, the aristocracy and the religious institutions, although there is some debate as to whether the various religious groups were able to present a united front, or whether they ever had as much political strength as the other two blocs.
The 16th century was a time of conflict in Japan, but religious establishments continued to play a role in the administration of the country’s various territories.
Religion became something of a hot potato when missionaries came to Japan during this period and began to convert people from Shinto and Buddhism. Christianity was seen as a political threat and was ruthlessly eradicated. The 17th century was dominated by Buddhism, but a Shinto-laden Buddhism, partly because an anti-Christian measure forced all Japanese to register at a Buddhist temple and pay for the privilege of being a Buddhist.
The “non-religious” period of Shintoism
It was during this period that Shinto was declared “non-religious”. Traditional historians say (rather cynically) that this was done to avoid any conflict between the Japanese state’s imposition of Shinto and the Japanese Constitution’s guarantee of religious freedom.
In fact, it was more subtle than that: Shinto was considered inseparable from the “Imperial Way” and inseparable from Japan’s fundamental ethical and social code. This made Shinto so superior to other religions (which, although of enormous value, were created by human beings) that it was considered non-religious.
In his critique of popular conceptions of Shinto, historian Kuroda Toshio explains that it has come to be regarded as “the cultural will or energy of the Japanese people, embodied in conventions that precede or transcend religion.”
Gods or deities of Japanese mythology
Japanese gods and goddesses are mostly those of the traditional religion of Japan, known as Shinto “The Way of the Gods,” or kami-no-michi. The mythologies of the Shinto religion were first written down in the 8th century AD, in two documents known as “Kojiki” (712 AD) and “Nihonshoki” (720 AD). But the gods and goddesses of Japan have also been influenced to some extent by Indian (Buddhism and Hinduism) and Chinese (Buddhism and Confucianism) mythologies.
Twentieth-century folklorists Yanagita Kunio and Origuchi Shinobu collected folklore from peasants and common people; such folklore varies from community to community, tends to be flexible, and is rarely recorded. In contrast, the major Shinto gods and goddesses of Kojiki and Nihonshoki are shared by the entire nation, ideas that are noted and reinforce the national myths of the political state.
The kami are the spirits, gods and deities of Japan’s Shinto religion
This is a broad concept that can be used to describe the spirits of deceased loved ones, the gods of Japanese mythology, animal spirits and even the deities of other religions such as Buddha or Bodhisattvas.
It is said that there are eight million kami (八百万) which is a number traditionally used to express infinity in Japan. Kami can be good or bad. They can be incredibly powerful or relatively benign.
The following kami come from both the Shinto and Japanese Buddhist traditions. Many have been influenced by Greek, Roman, Indian and Chinese gods and goddesses.
1. Amaterasu Omikami: the goddess of the sun
2. Ebisu: one of the seven gods of fortune
3. Fūjin: the god of wind
4. Hachiman: the god of war
5. Inari Okami: the god of rice and agriculture
6. Omoikane: the deity of wisdom
7. Susanoo-no-mikoto: the god of the sea and the storm
8. Tenjin: the god of poetry
9. Tsukuyomi: the god of the moon
10. Raijin: the god of lightning, thunder and storms
11. Ryūjin: the Japanese dragon god of the sea and storms
Animals of Japanese mythology
There is a great deal of overlap between the animals found in Japan and those considered sacred at shrines and temples. Here are some of the creatures most important to the Japanese religion and where they can be found in Japan.
While there are plenty of adorable wild animals that call Japan home, there are also many that have held a special place in the hearts of the Japanese for generations. These sacred animals are often the messengers of Shinto or Buddhist deities or are symbols of Japan as a whole.
1. Komainu – Shrine Guardians
Komainu are the stone lion dog statues found at the entrances of many shrines throughout Japan. These dogs are said to be protectors and messengers of the deities of that particular shrine, so you may find different creatures standing guard at different shrines.
2. Foxes – Inari Divine Messengers
The messenger of the harvest god Inari is the fox. The identification of this deity with foxes is so strong that the fox statues that can be seen on the shrine grounds have also come to be called Inari in Japanese.
3. Sacred cows – Tenmangu Shrines
Although to some cows may seem like dull or lackluster creatures, they are actually very intelligent, so much so that in Japan they have become associated with the god of scholars, Tenjinsama.
Japanese mythology literature
Early works of Japanese literature were heavily influenced by cultural contact with China and Chinese literature, often written in classical Chinese. Indian literature also influenced through the separation of Buddhism in Japan.
Eventually, Japanese literature developed in a separate style, although the influence of Chinese literature and classical Chinese remained until the end of the Edo period. Since Japan reopened its ports to Western trade and diplomacy in the 19th century, Western and Eastern literature have affected each other and continue to do so.
Symbols and Symbology of Japanese Mythology
Symbols and motifs have always been an integral part of Japanese aesthetics, both in traditional and modern designs. These symbols are embedded in many of the elements found in Nalata through graphics, textiles and applied arts. This is a reference guide that will give you some insight into the meaning behind these motifs and hopefully give you a better appreciation of the symbolic aspects of Japanese culture.
The Japanese Iconic Symbol
This is derived from the mythological sun goddess, Amaterasu of the Shinto religion. According to myth, the goddess founded Japan approximately 2700 years ago and all emperors of Japan are known as “Sons of the Sun”, essentially direct descendants of the goddess herself. The design of the national flag reflects the central importance of the sun in Japanese tradition
Primarily a symbol of purity, the lotus is revered in Japan for its ability to rise from dirty muddy waters to bloom into a beautiful flower.
The Daruma
This is a traditional Japanese wishing doll and the symbol of success in Japan.It is an ancient tradition that is practiced tothis day
The cherry blossom
This flower has long been revered by the Japanese and closely associated with their philosophy of non-conscious monkey. The flower’s brief blooming time and the fragility of the flower has always been linked to an association with the transience of life and an appreciation of fleeting beauty
The butterflies
These animals have a number of meanings but are most closely associated with the symbolism of metamorphosis and transformation. They are closely linked to recently departed spirits and are consequently depicted on a number of traditional family crests
The moon goddess
At the center of Japanese mythology is the moon goddess, Tsukiyomi. This powerful figure in early times has made the moon a common motif in Japanese arts and crafts. Until the mid-19th century, Japan even followed the lunar calendar. The symbolic meaning of the moon is closely linked to the act of rejuvenation
Koi fish
According to Japanese legend, if a koi fish managed to swim upstream and climb the waterfalls at a point called Dragon Gate on the Yellow River, it would transform into a Dragon. Based on this legend, it became a symbol of aspiration and perseverance
Myths and Legends of Japanese Mythology
Japanese mythology consists of stories derived from ancient folk beliefs, as well as from Shinto and Buddhist religions. Japanese mythology also consists of a large number of tales, but here we will share five of the most well-known Japanese legends.
1. Japanese creation myth
The creation myth comes from the Kojiki, or “Record of Ancient Matters,” the first book written in Japan (dating from 712) and the Nihon Shoki (completed in 720).
The story begins in a limitless and formless chaos of a dark and silent universe. After many eons, particles begin to move and create sound. The lighter particles rise to form the heavens, where the first three gods – the Three Creator Deities – appear.
The remaining particles fall downward and create a mass called “Earth,” but it takes many millions of years for it to solidify. Instantly, two more deities emerge, this time on Earth, sprouting from a reed.
Many more gods follow, but they have nothing to do but exist while the universe remains in chaos.
Two gods, Izanagi and Izanami, are summoned and told to descend to earth to rule creation. Thus begins life on Earth.
2. The Sun, the Moon and the Wind
Shortly after her creation, Izanami dies during childbirth. Grief-stricken, Izanagi makes a journey to Yomi, the land of the dead, to bring her back.
Izanagi is too late. Izanami’s body has already begun to rot. Izanagi returns to Earth and purifies himself, and in doing so, new deities appear, including Amaterasu, the sun goddess, Tsukuyomi, the moon god, and Susanoo, the wind god.
As you can see, many Japanese legends have to do with the creation of everyday things in the world around us.
3. Amaterasu and the Cave
Amaterasu is the best known Japanese goddess, and much of Japanese mythology tells of her rivalry with her brother Susanna.
In the most famous tale, Amaterasu hides inside a cave after another conflict with Susanna. This causes the whole world to sink into darkness, and evil spirits begin to roam the Earth.
After several attempts by the gods to get her out of the cave, they finally succeed when the Ame-No-Uzume, the goddess of joy, dresses in flowers and dances in an overturned washtub.
When flowers fall from her body, the male gods burst into laughter. When Amaterasu leaves the cave, Amenotejikara pulls her out of the cave and light returns to the world.
Today, this Japanese legend is remembered through Shinto theatrical performances.
4. Inaba Hare
There are two versions of the hare of Inaba, but here is one of the most widely accepted. This Japanese legend is a metaphor for how civilization fought against barbarism to form the nation of Japan.
The myth tells how a hare tricks a crocodile into forming a bridge to cross to an island. Unfortunately, the crocodiles discover the trick, and they join the hare and take all his skin.
Around the same time, some men who looked like the king’s son pass the hare. The hare calls out to them and asks for help. The brothers advise the hare to wash himself with seawater and dry in the sun. The salt of the seawater makes the hare even more uncomfortable, and the hare lies on the field screaming in pain.
Soon after, another brother tells the hare to wash in fresh water and roll in cattail pollen. After the treatment, the hare rewards the brother, who is actually the fairy Okuni-nushi-no-Mikoto, by telling him that he will marry Princess Yakami.
The Inaba hare is remembered for its role in spreading modern Japan through its depiction in festivals, artwork and shrines throughout the country. This is one of the best-known Japanese legends.
5. The Japanese legend of Emperor Jimmu
Jimmu, the great-grandson of the goddess Amaterasu, is the mythical founder of Japan and the first emperor in traditional lists.
Legend has it that he was born in 711 BC and died in 585 BC, which would mean that he was 126 years old at the time of his death. There is little evidence that Jimmu existed. In fact, modern scholars believe that of the nine emperors, Suizei, Jimmu’s successor, was the only one who actually lived.
Despite this historical discrepancy, the Japanese myth remains important, as it tells the story of how the Imperial Family, which still exists today, began.
Learning Japanese mythology can enrich your overall learning experience if you are taking Japanese classes. The stories are interesting and generally teach readers important life lessons.
Japanese Mythology Traditions
Traditional Japanese religion includes Shinto, Buddhism and Confucianism.
Shinto “The Way of the Gods” is the name given to religious practices that were indigenous to Japan before the introduction of Buddhism. It is concerned with humanity’s relationship with nature, agriculture and society. Prayers and offerings ask the deities (kami) for health, a good harvest, children and safety. Harvest festivals are Shinto events. Shinto is also concerned with community relations; therefore, marriages are often Shinto ceremonies.
The richness of Buddhism and its links to Chinese culture helped it gain support at the Japanese court. Buddhism also responded to spiritual needs that Shinto neglected, including questions of morality and the afterlife.
In the Nara period (A.D. 710-794), Shinto and Buddhism began to coexist. The Shinto deities (gods) were explained as Japan’s local versions of the universal beings represented by the numerous Buddhas.
Shintoism dealt with this-worldly issues (crops, social relations, clan ancestors), while Buddhism concentrated on ethical (moral) and metaphysical (supernatural) issues. This division still works for many Japanese. Weddings may be Shinto ceremonies, but Buddhism deals with morality, funerals and questions about the future life of the human soul.
Confucianism
The Confucianism is imported from China. Confucianism emphasizes the need to find one’s place within the larger social order, and to be a responsible member of the social units to which one belongs. The confucianism is hierarchical: in social relations one party is superior and the other inferior. It is the duty of the superior to teach, protect and nurture the inferior.
The inferior should respect and learn from the superior. Ideally, Confucianism leads to a highly ethical and caring social order. It also emphasizes study, a widely accepted value in Japan.
Christianity was introduced to Japan by St. Francis Xavier in 1549. Catholic missionaries enjoyed considerable success for nearly a century before the military government expelled them and made the practice of Christianity a crime punishable by death. Christianity was legalized again in the 1870s.
At that time Catholic, Protestant and Orthodox missions were established. Today, all of them are active throughout the country, especially in the field of education and charitable works. Only 1 percent of Japanese are Christians. However, Christian teachings have significantly influenced Japanese thinking.
Sacred sites of Japanese mythology
Japan is a religious country that celebrates both Buddhism and Shinto. These places and shrines throughout Japan are said to be the sacred and famous places of the country.
Tono – The Legends of Tono
The landscape of Tono retains much of the enigmatic charm found in its storybook of the same name. One of the most famous places is a stream at the edge of the temple that is said to have been inhabited by a mischievous kappa, a water imp with a fondness for both cucumbers and meat.
The source of a kappa’s power is said to be the water that fills the bowl-shaped depression on top of its head. However, if you ever encounter a kappa, simply bow to it. The ever-polite rude one will return your bow and lose his strength as the water falls from his bowl.
Okayama and Megijima – Momotaro
Although the original setting of one of Japan’s most beloved folk tales, Momotaro, is disputed, it is often associated with Okayama Prefecture, where the so-called “Peach Boy” is regarded as a hometown hero and references to the legend abound.
The ogre island where the decisive battle took place is supposedly Megijima Island in nearby Kagawa Prefecture, where the numerous caves are a perfect hiding place for Momotaro’s fearful ogres.
Takachiho – Amaterasu and the Cave
According to the legends of the native Japanese religion, Shinto, the sun goddess Amaterasu hid in a cave of sorrow after her wild brother, the storm god Susanoo, was unleashed. Thus Japan was deprived of sunlight until the other gods conspired to lure her out of the cave with a joyful and provocative dance.
Takachiho is the location of the legendary cave from which the sun goddess emerged and it is not difficult to see how this area, with its ravine, river, waterfalls and virgin forests, could be the setting for some of Japan’s most prominent founding myths.
Mount Osore – Sai no Kawara
In Japanese Buddhist tradition going back several centuries, the souls of prematurely deceased children are sent to a kind of purgatory at Sai no Kawara, a riverbed of the underworld located at the entrance to hell.
Miho Pine Grove – The Legend of the Hagoromo
The Legend of the Hagoromo tells the story of a fisherman who one day comes across a beautiful hagoromo (feathered robe) while fishing. Upon taking it, a celestial maiden appears and demands his immediate return, otherwise he will not be able to return to heaven.
The man forces her to dance the sky dance; she puts on her feathered robe and dances so elegantly that the fisherman is mesmerized as she floats away to her heavenly home.
As in many Japanese folk tales, there are several places in Japan that claim their setting as the scene of the Legend of the Hagoromo. Arguably the most famous of these places is the Miho Pine Grove in Shizuoka Prefecture, where a stretch of black pine trees creates a stark contrast with the sea, framing a wonderfully picturesque view of Mount Fuji.