Japanese Gods & Goddesses of Mythology

Japanese mythology is a rich tapestry of traditional stories, folktales, and beliefs, deeply influenced by Shinto and Buddhist traditions, as well as myths from China, Korea, Ainu, and Okinawan cultures. It features a diverse range of characters including bodhisattva, kami (spirits), yokai (supernatural beings), dragons, and animals with supernatural powers like kitsune (foxes) and tanuki (raccoon dogs).

Amaterasu, whose name translates to 'shines from heaven', is the great and glorious goddess of the sun and queen of the kami. She is considered the embodiment of the rising sun in Japan, and the Japanese imperial family claims direct descent from her. Her primary role is to illuminate and nourish all living things, marking the orderly progression of day into night.

Izanagi, meaning 'he who invites', is the father of many Japanese kami, including Amaterasu, Tsukuyomi, and Susanoo. Alongside his wife Izanami, he created the islands of Japan. He defends the world from the land of the dead and ensures that births outnumber deaths to preserve his creation, often wielding his heavenly jeweled spear, Ame-no-nuboko.

Susanoo-no-Mikoto is the powerful and temperamental Japanese god of the sea and storms. His chaotic moods reflect his domain. One of his most famous feats involves slaying the eight-headed dragon Yamata no Orochi, which led to the discovery of the Kusunagi-no-Tsurugi sword, a sacred regalia of Japan. He can be both benevolent and malevolent.

Tsukuyomi-no-Mikoto, the Japanese god of the moon, is a proud and orderly deity, often described as the estranged husband of Amaterasu. His name translates to 'moon reading' or 'moonlight watching'. He believes strongly in etiquette and order, even to the point of violence to maintain it, making him a somewhat negative figure in shinto and Japanese folklore despite his beauty.

Inari Okami is a complex and highly popular kami associated with prosperity, rice agriculture, industry, and smithing. Often depicted as male, female, or androgynous, Inari is famously linked with kitsune (foxes) who serve as their messengers. Inari has more shrines dedicated to them than any other kami in Japan, reflecting their significant and diverse attributes.

Raijin, the Japanese god of storms and thunder, is a chaotic being born of death. He brings vital rains but also destruction, flying across the sky on dark clouds and throwing lightning. Known by names like Kaminari-sama and Narukami, he is depicted with a terrifying appearance and a drum to create thunder. Raijin is also seen as a protector of temples and a bringer of bountiful harvests.

Fujin is the powerful Japanese wind god, elemental deity, and brother to Raijin. He controls all the winds of the world with his bag of air. Appearing as an oni (demon) with green skin, disheveled red and white hair, and a monstrous face, he rides on clouds. While often a destructive force, Fujin can also bring gentle, refreshing winds and is somewhat less intense than his brother, Raijin.

Ameno-Uzume is the Shinto goddess of dawn, merry-making, humor, and dancing. Her ingenuity was crucial in luring Amaterasu out of her cave, thus restoring the sun to the world. She is considered the originator of performing arts and is often portrayed smiling. Mirrors are sacred to her, reflecting the dawn sun.

Ebisu is a Japanese god of luck, wealth, and prosperity, particularly concerning the sea. He is the patron god of fishermen, perpetually smiling and one of the Seven Lucky Gods, and uniquely indigenous to Japan. Despite being deaf and partially crippled as a child due to lack of bones, he is a kindly god who shares his wealth. He is often depicted with a fishing rod and a large fish.

Ninigi is the grandson of Amaterasu and was sent to Japan to cultivate the first rice crop, bringing civilization, justice, and agriculture. He is the great-grandfather of Emperor Jimmu, the first emperor of Japan, and thus an honored ancestor of the Japanese imperial family, serving as a bridge between the divine and the ruling class. His story may symbolize the immigration of agricultural people to Japan.

Yamata no Orochi was a fearsome eight-tailed and eight-headed dragon that annually devoured the daughters of earthly gods. The legend describes how Susanoo, exiled from the heavens, encountered grieving gods who were about to sacrifice their last daughter, Kushinada-hime. Susanoo offered to save her in exchange for her hand in marriage, eventually intoxicating and slaying the dragon, finding the sacred Kusunagi-no-Tsurugi sword within its tail.

Ryujin, also known as Ryo, is the dragon king, sea god, and master of serpents in Japanese mythology. With his magic jewels, he controls the tides and represents both the perils and bounty of the sea. He is often associated with Watatsumi, another water deity, and is considered a bringer of rain and thunder, as well as having knowledge of medicine. Ryujin can be both a sinister force and a kindly ruler in myths.