Introduction Welcome to the “Japanese Myths Series.” This collection brings you the ancient myths and legends of Japan in plain English. Our goal is to make these timeless stories accessible to everyone, especially those looking to improve their English reading skills. Each volume in this series will explore different myths, giving insights into the roots […]
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The Legend of Hiruko Hiruko (also known as Ebisu or Hiru-ko) is a deity in Japanese mythology, featured in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki. Hiruko was the first child born to Izanagi and Izanami, but he did not develop normally, leading to a life marked by hardship. Birth and Misfortune Izanagi and Izanami were tasked
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The Legend of Hoori and Toyotama-hime Hoori (Hoori no Mikoto) is a god in Japanese mythology, also known as Yamasachihiko. Toyotama-hime is the daughter of the sea god Watatsumi and is known as Hoori’s wife. This story is detailed in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki. The Lost Fishing Hook and Adventure Hoori and his brother
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The Legend of Amano-Iwato Amano-Iwato (Heavenly Rock Cave) is a pivotal episode in Japanese mythology, prominently featured in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki. This story recounts the chaos that ensues when the sun goddess Amaterasu retreats into the Heavenly Rock Cave and the subsequent efforts of the gods to coax her out. Amaterasu’s Retreat Amaterasu’s
The Legend of Umihiko and Yamahiko Umihiko (Sea Prince) and Yamahiko (Mountain Prince) are brothers in Japanese mythology, prominently featured in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki. They play significant roles in myths related to hunting and fishing. The Conflict Between Umihiko and Yamahiko Umihiko and Yamahiko are brothers, with Umihiko skilled in fishing and Yamahiko
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Izanagi and Izanami are central deities in Japanese mythology, known as the creators of the Japanese archipelago and many of its gods. Their story is primarily detailed in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki. Creation of the Japanese Islands Izanagi and Izanami were given the task of creating the world by the elder gods. They stood
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The Legend of Yamato Takeru Yamato Takeru (Prince Ōsu) is a legendary hero in Japanese mythology and history, known for his numerous adventures and heroic deeds. His story is detailed in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki. Childhood and Trials Yamato Takeru was born as Prince Ōsu, the son of Emperor Keikō, the 12th emperor of
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The Legend of Ame-no-Wakahiko Ame-no-Wakahiko is a deity in Japanese mythology, featured prominently in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki. He is a member of the heavenly descendants (Tenson) and was sent to pacify the earthly realm. Descent and Mission Ame-no-Wakahiko was chosen by Amaterasu and Takamimusubi to descend to the earthly realm (Ashihara no Nakatsukuni)
Ōkuninushi’s Nation-Building Ōkuninushi is a pivotal deity in Japanese mythology, known as the god of nation-building. His story is a heroic saga of overcoming numerous trials and challenges, as detailed in ancient texts like the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki. Ōkuninushi is a descendant of Susanoo-no-Mikoto and is famed for his efforts in building the nation,
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The Legend of Takemikazuchi’s Conquest Takemikazuchi is a prominent deity in Japanese mythology, known as the god of thunder and swordsmanship. He plays a crucial role in the myth of the transfer of the land (Kuniyuzuri), as recorded in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki. Background Amaterasu, the sun goddess, intended to have her descendants rule