Japanese

The Kojiki, which translates to “the record of ancient matters”, is an ancient document that elaborates the legends and myths of Japan. Japanese mythology dates back 2000 years and melds the beliefs of the Shinto and Buddhist religions with a focus on creation and the forces of nature.

According to the legend, all of creation emerged from a mud- like ooze that first formed heaven and earth. The deities followed creation, and Japanese mythology has an extensive pantheon of gods and goddesses which still play an important role in the arts of Japan today.

Japanese Creatures

Japanese Gods

The first collective of the Japanese gods were born at the creation of the universe are called the Kotoamatsukami. Kami is the name for an individual god or spirit. As the myth of the Japanese Gods in the Kojiki unfolds, the first three deities were formed in the heavens and followed by the creation of two others. The original five are named the Separate Heavenly Deities. Afterward, the Seven Generations of the Age of the gods included five couples of gods and goddesses and two single deities. An Emperor is considered a descendent of the original imperial family, appointed by the gods and referred to as Sumera-Mikoto, heavenly sovereign.

Japanese

Japanese Creatures

Japanese Gods

Izanagi

Kappa

Kitsune

Raijin

Shinigami

Tanuki

Tengu