Archives: Wiki Pages

A wiki custom post type

Sagami Bay

Sagami Bay

Co-ordinates: 35°07′N 139°23′E Sagami Bay Sagami Bay (相模湾) is a stretch of water lying to the south of Kanagawa Prefecture. Legendary Period The Bay is mentioned during the exploits of Yamato Takeru when he sails across it to subdue the Emishi. Crossing the bay a kami living in the water[...]

Sagami Province

Sagami Province

See also: List of Provinces Sagami Province Sagami Province (相模国) was an old Province in Japan, situated in what is now Kanagawa Prefecture, established during the Taika Reforms in 645.4 This area is called Sagami in the Kojiki1, but Suruga in the Nihongi2. Legendary Period Yamato Takeru travelled through here[...]

Nanatsukahagi

Nanatsukahagi

Period: Legendary Occupation: Military Nanatsukahagi Nanatsukahagi (七束脛命) was a known companion of Yamato Takeru who accompanied him against the Emishi alongside Takehi no Muraji and Takehiko. He also acted as Steward to Yamato Takeru.12 Footnotes 1. Littleton. C.S. (1995) “Yamato-takeru: An Arthurian Hero in Japanese Tradition”. Asian Folklore Studies, Vol.[...]

Takehi no Muraji

Takehi no Muraji

Period: Legendary Period Occupation: Military / Five Daibu Family: – Birth: – Death: – Takehi no Muraji Takehi no Muraji (大伴武日連命), also known as Otomo no Takehi2 was a known companion of Yamato Takeru who accompanied him against the Emishi alongside Takehiko and Nanatsukahagi.12 During his time with Yamato Takeru, he[...]

Takehiko

Takehiko

Takehiko Takehiko. We are a wiki as well as a Blog and podcast site which is constantly and steadily growing. Bringing to you all aspects of Japanese history. It is going to be a project which will expand continuously over the coming years. And we hope you stick with us[...]

Hitachi Fudoki

Hitachi Fudoki

Hitachi Fudoki The Hitachi Fudoki (常陸 風土記) is an 8th Century piece of Japanese Literature which includes within it the exploits of Yamato Takeru’s life.1 Footnotes 1. Littleton. C.S. (1995) “Yamato-takeru: An Arthurian Hero in Japanese Tradition”. Asian Folklore Studies, Vol. 54, No.2, pp.259-274.[...]

Owari Province

Owari Province

See also: List of Provinces Owari Province Owari Province (尾張国) was once a Province of Japan, located in what is now Aichi Prefecture. Created in 646 under the Kokugun System3, it is one of the 15 Provinces traversed by the Tokaido Road.13 This Province is also known as Bishū (尾州).3[...]

Miyazu Hime

Miyazu Hime

Period: Legendary Period Occupation: Princess Family: Yamato Takeru (husband) Miyazu Hime Miyazu Hime was a Princess living in the land of Owari. Yamato Takeru visits her before going to subdue the Emishi promising to marry her upon his return. When he returns, they do marry. Yamato then leaving for one[...]

Emperors of Japan

Emperors of Japan

Emperors of Japan Here follows a list of all Emperors (天皇) of Japan on our website so far. Legendary Emperors Kofun Period Asuka Period[...]

Yamato Hime

Yamato Hime

Yamato Hime Yamato Hime. We are a wiki as well as a Blog and podcast site which is constantly and steadily growing. Bringing to you all aspects of Japanese history. It is going to be a project which will expand continuously over the coming years. And we hope you stick[...]

Ōtamaruwake

Ōtamaruwake

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Oshima Family: Izanami (mother) Izanagi (father) Ōtamaruwake Ōtamaruwake (大多麻流別 – Lord Great Harbor) was the kami which inhabited the island of Ōshima, according to the Kojiki. Nothing more is mentioned of him.1 The Nihongi does not give a name to this kami, simply stating: Izanami and[...]

Oshima

Oshima

Oshima This is a redirect page for the Oshima. We are a wiki as well as a Blog and podcast site which is constantly and steadily growing. Bringing to you all aspects of Japanese history. It is going to be a project which will expand continuously over the coming years.[...]

Ohoshima

Ohoshima

Ohoshima This is a redirect page for the Ohoshima. We are a wiki as well as a Blog and podcast site which is constantly and steadily growing. Bringing to you all aspects of Japanese history. It is going to be a project which will expand continuously over the coming years.[...]

Yashiro Island

Yashiro Island

Coordinates: 33°55′N 132°14′E Region: Chugoku Region Prefecture: Yamaguchi Prefecture Yashiro Island Yashiro Island is an island often attributed to being Ōshima island in the kojiki and Ohoshima in the nihongi. Ōshima (大島 – Great Isle) was, according to the kojiki, the third island born after the Great Land of Eightfold[...]

Etchū Province

Etchū Province

See also: List of Provinces Etchū Province Etchū Province (越中国) was an old Province of Japan, located in what is now Toyama Prefecture. Legendary Period It is mentioned in the Nihongi alongside that of Echigo Province and Echizen Province. However, they are grouped together and given the name of Koshi.[...]

Echizen Province

Echizen Province

See also: List of Provinces Echizen Province Echizen Province (越前国) was an old Province of Japan, located in what is now Fukui Prefecture.1 Legendary Period It is mentioned in the Nihongi alongside that of Echigo Province and Etchu Province. However, they are grouped together and given the name of Koshi. Koshi[...]

Echigo Province

Echigo Province

See also: List of Provinces Echigo Province Echigo Province (越後国) was an old Province of Japan, located in what is now Niigata Prefecture, established in the early 8th Century.1 The folktale called The Mirror of Matsuyama is set in this province.4 Legendary Period It is mentioned in the nihongi alongside[...]

Koshi

Koshi

Koshi Koshi is mentioned in the Nihongi as the fifth of the Great Land of Eightfold Isles to have been created by Izanami and Izanagi. This place, however, is not an island, but an amalgamation of the old Echigo, Echizen and Etchū Provinces of Japan.1 Footnotes 1. Aston. W.G. (1896)[...]

Amenooshio

Amenooshio

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Chikanoshima Family: Izanami (mother) Izanagi (father) Amenooshio Amenooshio (天之忍男 – Grand Men of Heaven) was the kami which inhabited the island of Chikanoshima, according to the Kojiki.1 The Nihongi does not give a name to this kami, simply stating: Izanami and Izanagi then produced the sea,[...]

Empress Jingu

Empress Jingu

Reign: c.201-269AD Period: Legendary Period Family: Okinaga no sukune (father) Kadzuraki no Takanukahime (mother) Emperor Chuai (husband) Emperor Ojin (son) Soratsuhime (sister) Okinagahiko (brother) Burial Place: – Order of Succession: Predecessor Emperor Chuai * Successor Emperor Ojin Empress Jingu Empress Jingu (神功天皇) also known as Jingu Kogo (神功皇后)1 and Okinagatarashihime[...]

Emperor Chūai

Emperor Chūai

Reign: 192-270AD Period: Legendary Period Family: Yamato Takeru (father) Futajirihime (mother) Emperor Seimu (uncle) Empress Jingu (wife) Burial Place: – Order of Succession: Predecessor Emperor Seimu * Successor Empress Jingu Emperor Chūai Emperor Chūai (仲哀天皇) also known as Tarashinakatsuhiko (足仲彦天皇) was the fourteenth Emperor of Japan.1 He was made crown[...]

Sado Island

Sado Island

Co-ordinates: 38°1′N 138°22′E Region: Chūbu Region Prefecture: Niigata Prefecture Sado Island Sado Island (佐渡ヶ島, Marsh Paddy Isle) was, according to the Kojiki, the seventh island born after the Great Land of Eightfold Isles.1 The Nihongi also has this island as one of original Eightfold Isles. Though differs in saying it[...]

Amenooshikorowake

Amenooshikorowake

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Okigashima Family: Izanami (mother) Izanagi (father) Amenooshikorowake Amenooshikorowake (天之忍許呂別 – Grand-Shaped Lords of Heaven) is the name of a collective group of kami who dwell upon Okigashima according to the Kojiki. No specific names for the kami are given and nothing more is mentioned of them.[...]

Okigashima

Okigashima

Co-ordinates: 36°10′16.1″N 133°8′40.8″E Region: Chūgoku Region Prefecture: Shimane Prefecture Okigashima Okigashima (隠岐の島, Isles in the Offing/Oki Islands) is a small archipelago off the coast of Honshu.1 According to the kojiki this island is the third of the Great Land of Eightfold Isles to have been born by Izanami and Izanagi,[...]

Omodaru

Omodaru

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: – Family: Anakashikone (wife) Omodaru Omodaru (淤母陀琉神, Entirely Engorged) was the brother and husband of Anakashikone. He with his sister were the 6th Generation of Shinto kami. His name can also be read as Surface Complete or Fully Formed.1 The Nihongi agrees he was the 6th[...]

Awokashikine

Awokashikine

Awokashikine This is a redirect page for the Awokashikine. We are a wiki as well as a Blog and podcast site which is constantly and steadily growing. Bringing to you all aspects of Japanese history. It is going to be a project which will expand continuously over the coming years.[...]

Anakashikone

Anakashikone

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: – Family: Omodaru (husband) Izanagi (son) Izanami (daughter) Anakashikone Anakashikone (阿夜訶志古泥神, Awesome Indeed) was the sister and wife of Omodaru. She with her brother were the 6th Generation of Shinto kami. Her name refers to the magical powers possessed by a woman’s genitalia.1 The Nihongi agrees[...]

Takeuchi no Sukune

Takeuchi no Sukune

Period: Legendary Period Occupation: Prince / Ōomi / Prime Minister Family: Hikofutooshimakoto (father/grandfather?) Yamashitakage (mother?) Hatanoyashiro (son) Kosenookara (son) Soga no Ishikawa (son) Hegurinotsuki (son) Kinotsunu (son) Mato of Kume (daughter) Princess Nunoiro (daughter) Kadzurakinonagayenosotsubiko (son) Wakugo (son) Birth: – Death: – Takeuchi no Sukune Takeuchi no Sukune (武内宿禰) was a legendery[...]

Emperor Seimu

Emperor Seimu

Reign: 131-190AD Born: Period: Legendary Period Family: Emperor Keikō (father) Yasakairihime (mother) Ohotakara no iratsume (wife)  Wakanuke (son) Yamato Dake (brother) Emperor Chuai (nephew) Burial Place: misasagi in Tatanami near Saki. Order of Succession: Predecessor Emperor Keikō * Successor Emperor Chuai Emperor Seimu Emperor Seimu (成務 天皇) was the thirteenth Emperor[...]

Takehimukaitoyokujihinewake

Takehimukaitoyokujihinewake

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Tsukushi Family: Toyohiwake (brother), Shirahiwake (brother), Takehiwake(brother) Takehimukaitoyokujihinewake Takehimukaitoyokujihinewake (建日向日豊久士比泥別 – Little Lord Wondrous Wealthy Sunward Brave) was one of the four kami of Tsukushi according to the Kojiki, residing in the South-West part of the island called Hi. Nothing more is mentioned of him.1 Footnotes[...]

Takehiwake

Takehiwake

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Tsukushi Family: Toyohiwake (brother), Shirahiwake (brother), Takehimukaitoyokujihinewake (brother) Takehiwake Takehiwake (建日別 – Lord Sun Brave) was one of the four kami of Tsukushi according to the Kojiki, residing in the South-West part of the island where the Bear Folk lived. Nothing more is mentioned of him.1[...]

Shirahiwake

Shirahiwake

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Tsukushi Family: Toyohiwake (brother), Takehiwake (brother), Takehimukaitoyokujihinewake (brother) Shirahiwake Shirahiwake (白日別 – Lord Bright Son) was one of the four kami of Tsukushi according to the Kojiki, residing in the Northern part of the island called Tsukushi. He is noted to have a shrine in Fukuoka[...]

Toyohiwake

Toyohiwake

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Tsukushi Family: Shirahiwake (brother), Takehiwake (brother), Takehimukaitoyokujihinewake (brother) Toyohiwake Toyohiwake (豊日別 – Lord Abundant Sun) was one of the four kami of Tsukushi according to the kojiki, residing in the North-West part of the island called Toyo. Nothing more is mentioned of him.1 Footnotes 1. Yasumaro.[...]

Hiyeda no Are

Hiyeda no Are

Period: Nara Period Occupation: Katari Be? Hiyeda no Are Hiyeda no Are (稗田 阿礼) is known to have helped create the Kojiki which was completed in 712AD. Whether he was a man or woman it isn’t known. The whole document was written by Ō no Yasumaro, from the recitations of[...]

Yamato

Yamato

Yamato This is a redirect page for the Yamato. We are a wiki as well as a Blog and podcast site which is constantly and steadily growing. Bringing to you all aspects of Japanese history. It is going to be a project which will expand continuously over the coming years.[...]

Ōnakatomi Sadayo

Ōnakatomi Sadayo

Period: Kamakura Period Occupation: Ōnakatomi Sadayo Ōnakatomi Sadayo was a member of the Aristocracy who in 1266 wrote a copy of the Kojiki which was used later by the Monk Ken’yuu in 1371.1 Footnotes 1. Yasumaro. O, translated by Gustav Heldt. (2014) “Kojiki. An Account of Ancient Matters”. New York:[...]

Shin’yu

Shin’yu

Period: Muromachi Period Occupation: Buddhist Monk Shin’yu Shin’yu was a Buddhist Monk who acted as editor for Ken’yuu when he created a new copy of the Kojiki during the Muromachi Period.1 Footnotes 1. Yasumaro. O, translated by Gustav Heldt. (2014) “Kojiki. An Account of Ancient Matters”. New York: Columbia University[...]

Ken’yuu

Ken’yuu

Period: Muromachi Period Occupation: Buddhist Monk, Author. Ken’yuu Ken’yuu was a Buddhism who copied early records of the Kojiki. He began copying the 2nd and 3rd book in 1371 from a manuscript written by court aristocrat Ōnakatomi Sadayo in 1266, belonging to Ise-born textual lineage. One year later he uses[...]

Chikanoshima

Chikanoshima

Co-ordinates: Region: Kyushu Chikanoshima Chikanoshima (知訶島 – Near Isles) was, according to the Kojiki, the fifth island born after the Great Land of Eightfold Isles, inhabited by the kami Amenooshio. The island forms part of the Gotō Peninsula, west of Nagasaki. It is often the first island seen by foreigners[...]

Tsukushi

Tsukushi

Tsukushi This is a redirect page for the Tsukushi. We are a wiki as well as a Blog and podcast site which is constantly and steadily growing. Bringing to you all aspects of Japanese history. It is going to be a project which will expand continuously over the coming years.[...]

Kyushu

Kyushu

Co-ordinates: 33°N 131°E Prefectures: Fukuoka Prefecture, Kagoshima Prefecture, Kumamoto Prefecture, Miyazaki Prefecture, Nagasaki Prefecture, Oita Prefecture, Okinawa Prefecture, Saga Prefecture Kyushu Kyushu (九州, Nine Provinces) also called Tsukushi (筑紫島, Lands End) in the kojiki and nihongi is one of the four main islands of Japan, the islands older name of[...]

Yamato Dake

Yamato Dake

Yamato Dake This is a redirect page for the Yamato Dake. We are a wiki as well as a Blog and podcast site which is constantly and steadily growing. Bringing to you all aspects of Japanese history. It is going to be a project which will expand continuously over the[...]

Yamato Takeru

Yamato Takeru

Period: Legendary Period Occupation: Prince Family: Emperor Keikō (father) Harima no Inabi no Ōiratsume (mother) Yamato Hime (aunt) Emperor Chūai (son) Ōsu (brother) Kushitsunuwake (brother) Wakayamatoneko (brother) Kamukushi (brother) several other wives and children see below Birth: – Death: – Yamato Takeru Yamato Takeru (小碓命, Prince Ōsu – The Brave of[...]

Emperor Keikō

Emperor Keikō

Reign: 71-130AD Period: Legendary Period Family: Emperor Suinin (father) Hibasuhime (mother) Yasakairihime (wife) Emperor Seimu (son) many children see below Burial place: misasagi in Yamanobe Order of Succession: Predecessor Emperor Suinin * Successor Emperor Seimu Emperor Keikō Emperor Keikō (景行天皇) was the twelfth Emperor of Japan also known as Ōtarashihiko Oshirowake[...]

Emperor Suinin

Emperor Suinin

Reign: 29BC-70AD Born: Period: Legendary Period Family: Emperor Sujin (father) Mimakihime (mother) many wives and children, see below. Burial place: misasagi in Fushimi, Sugahara Order of Succession: Predecessor Emperor Sujin * Successor Emperor Keikō Emperor Suinin Emperor Suinin (垂仁天皇) was the eleventh Emperor of Japan also known as Ikumeiribikoisachi (活目入彦五十狭茅天皇)123. He ruled from[...]

Takahashi

Takahashi

Region: ? Prefecture: ? Takahashi Takahashi is known to have been the home of a man named Ikuhi. During his life he went on to be the Brewer to the Great Diet of Grain Crops.1 Where this place was located is unknown as the modern day city of Takahashi was[...]

Ikuhi

Ikuhi

Period: Legendary Period Occupation: Priest Ikuhi Ikuhi (活日) was a man who lived during the reign of Emperor Sujin. He was appointed as the Brewer of Ōkuninushi in the 8th year of his reign. Later that same year he presented sake to the Emperor and sang as song which went[...]

Emperor Sujin

Emperor Sujin

Reign: 97-30BC Born: 148BC Period: Legendary Period Family: Emperor Kaika (father) Ikagashikome (mother) Many wives and children see below. Burial place: misasagi in Isonokami Order of Succession: Predecessor Emperor Kaika * Successor Emperor Suinin Emperor Sujin Emperor Sujin (崇神 天皇) was the 10th Emperor of Japan also known as Mimakiiribikoiniye (御眞木入日子印恵命)1[...]

Enryaku-ji

Enryaku-ji

Co-ordinates: 35°04′14″N 135°50′28″E Region: Kansai Region Prefecture: Shiga Prefecture Founded: 788AD Affiliation: Buddhism Enryaku-ji Enryaku-ji (延暦寺) is a Buddhist Temple overlooking Kyoto. The temple itself is build upon Mount Hiei, situated in the old Province of Omi. Built during the Heian Period, the temple gained control of many estate lands[...]

Mii-dera temple

Mii-dera temple

Mii-dera temple This is a redirect page for the Mii-dera temple. We are a wiki as well as a Blog and podcast site which is constantly and steadily growing. Bringing to you all aspects of Japanese history. It is going to be a project which will expand continuously over the[...]

Miidera

Miidera

Co-ordinates: 35°00′48″N 135°51′10″E Region: Kansai Region Prefecture: Shiga Prefecture Founded: 672AD Affiliation: Buddhism Miidera (三井寺,御井寺) is a Buddhist Temple located close to Lake Biwa in Otsu city. Folktales It is mentioned in the Japanese Folktale My Lord Bag of Rice. According to the story, Fujiwara Hidesato donated a bell to[...]

Raigō

Raigō

Birth: – Death: – Period: Heian Period Occupation: Buddhist Monk Raigō Raigō was a Buddhist monk who lived during the reign of Emperor Shirakawa, residing at Mii-dera. During his lifetime he was tasked by Shirakawa to pray for the safe birth of his son, with the promise of his temple[...]

Onmyōdō

Onmyōdō

Onmyōdō Onmyōdō (陰陽道) is a concept in Japan which used the ideoogy of Ying and Yang which originated in China. Emperor Richū (400-406AD) is said to have died from a lack of harmony in the ‘elements of water and earth’ within him showing that the concept of Ying and Yang[...]

Furaribi

Furaribi

Furaribi The Furaribi (ふらり火) (Wander-Flame), also known as the Burari-bi, is a type of Yōkai depicted in the Gazu Hyakki Yagyō by Toriyama Sekien. The word ‘furari’ meaning to wander without a destination. The Yōkai appears, similarly depicted, in the Hyakkai Zukan by Sawaki Sūshi shown as a white bird-like[...]

Kamikiri

Kamikiri

Kamikiri The Kamikiri (髪切り) (Hair Cutter) is a type of Yōkai depicted in the Hyakkai Zukan by Sawaki Sūshi.1 The image from the Hyakki Zukan shows a grey colored creatures, whose beak and hand resembles the blades of scissors, with a like for cutting hair. Other Depictions Footnotes 1. Yoda,[...]

Sawaki Sūshi

Sawaki Sūshi

Birth: – Death: – Period: Edo Period Occupation: Artist, Author Sawaki Sūshi Sawaki Sūshi (佐脇 嵩之) is the creator of the Hyakkai Zukan, a Yōkai scroll which inspired much of Toriyama Sekien’s first book on Yōkai.1 Footnotes 1. Yoda, H. and Alt, M. (2016) “Japandemonium: Illustrated: The Yokai Encyclopaedia of[...]

Hyakkai Zukan

Hyakkai Zukan

Hyakkai Zukan The Hyakkai Zukan (百怪図巻, Illustrated Creeps), published in 1737, is a collection of picture scrolls depicted various types of Yōkai created by Sawaki Sūshi. These images greatly inspired the Yōkai works of Toriyama Sekien, in fact Volume three of his work the Gazu Hyakki Yagyō consists entirely of[...]

Kibinokojima

Kibinokojima

Kibinokojima This is a redirect page for the Kibinokojima. We are a wiki as well as a Blog and podcast site which is constantly and steadily growing. Bringing to you all aspects of Japanese history. It is going to be a project which will expand continuously over the coming years.[...]

Kibi no Ko

Kibi no Ko

Co-ordinates: – Region: Chugoku Region Prefecture: Okayama Prefecture Kibi no Ko Kibi no Ko (吉備児島, Little Isle of Broomcorn Millet) was, according to the kojiki, the first island born after the Great Land of Eightfold Isles, inhabited by the kami Takehikatawake. It is a peninsula, and was once a major[...]

Kojiki

Kojiki

Kojiki The Kojiki (古事記 – Records of Ancient Matters or An Account of Ancient Matters) is one of the earliest Japanese Chronicles we have from Japan. Creation and Authorship In AD682 the Emperor Tenmu commissioned his Princes and High Officials to prepare: a history of the Emperor’s and of matters[...]

Emperor Suizei

Emperor Suizei

Reign: 581-549BC Born: 633/632BC Period: Legendary Period Family: Emperor Jimmu (father) Himetatara Isuzuhime (mother) Isuzuyorihime (wife) Emperor Annei (son) Kamiyawimimi (brother) Tagishimimi (half-brother) Burial place: Tsukidaoka Order of Succession: Predecessor Emperor Jimmu  * Successor Emperor Annei Emperor Suizei Emperor Suizei (綏靖 天皇) was the second Emperor of Japan and is[...]

Umashiashikabihikoji

Umashiashikabihikoji

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: – Family: – Umashiashikabihikoji Umashiashikabihikoji (宇摩志阿斯訶備比古遅神, Fine Budding Reed Lad) is the fourth kami to come into existence in the kojiki. He, alongside the other kami Ametokotachi again hid themselves after they came into being. He is the first kami to have a gendered name.1 An[...]

Ametokotachi

Ametokotachi

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: – Family: – Ametokotachi Ametokotachi (天之常立神, Ever-Standing Heaven) is the fifth kami to come into existence in the Kojiki and he, alongside the other kami Umashiashikabihikoji hid themselves after they came into being. The name refers to the tip of a reed thrusting skywards. The Shinsen[...]

Yasumaro Futo no Ason

Yasumaro Futo no Ason

Yasumaro Futo no Ason This is a redirect page for the Yasumaro Futo no Ason. We are a wiki as well as a Blog and podcast site which is constantly and steadily growing. Bringing to you all aspects of Japanese history. It is going to be a project which will[...]

Ō no Yasumaro

Ō no Yasumaro

Period: Nara Period Occupation: Scribe, Ason Family:- Birth: – Death: AD723 Ō no Yasumaro Ō no Yasumaro (?-AD7231) (太 安万侶) (Yasumaro Futo no Ason in the Konin Shiki2 ) is known to have been the compiler of the Kojiki from the recitations of Hiyeda no Are2, signing his name with[...]

Kashihara

Kashihara

Co-ordinates: 34°31′N 135°48′E Region: Kansai Region Prefecture: Nara Prefecture Kashihara Kashihara (橿原市) is located within the modern day Nara Prefecture (Ancient Yamato). Historically the city is seen as the place where the first Emperor Jimmu descended to earth on the 11th February 660BC and began his rule in Japan.1 Footnotes[...]

My Lord Bag of Rice

My Lord Bag of Rice

See also: List of Folktales My Lord Bag of Rice My Lord Bag of Rice (俵藤太, Tawara Tōda) is a Japanese Folktale about Fujiwara Hidesato and The Dragon King. Synopsis Fujiwara, also known as Tawara Toda, wished for adventure and so one day set out. Reaching Seta-no-Karashi Bridge on Lake[...]

Ōgetsuhime

Ōgetsuhime

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Iyo Family: Otoshi (father?), Izanami (mother?), Izanagi (father?),  Ehime (sister), Takeyoriwake (brother), Iiyorohiko (brother) Ōgetsuhime Ōgetsuhime (大宣都比売) was one of the four kami of the Land of Groves according to the kojiki, residing in the East part of the island called ‘Awa’. As a female food kami[...]

Takeyoriwake

Takeyoriwake

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Iyo Family: Ehime (sister), Iiyorohiko (brother), Ogetsuhime (sister) Takeyoriwake Takeyoriwake (建日別 – Lord Summoned Brave) was the last of the four kami in the Land of Groves according to the kojiki, residing in the Southern part of the Island called ‘To-sa’. Nothing more is mentioned of[...]

Ehime Kami

Ehime Kami

Ehime Kami This is a redirect page for the Ehime Kami. We are a wiki as well as a Blog and podcast site which is constantly and steadily growing. Bringing to you all aspects of Japanese history. It is going to be a project which will expand continuously over the[...]

Iiyorohiko

Iiyorohiko

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Iyo Family: Ehime (sister), Takeyoriwake (brother), Ogetsuhime (sister) Iiyorohiko Iiyorohiko (飯依比古 – Food Summon Lad) was one of the four kami of the Land of Groves according to the kojiki, residing in the North part of the island called ‘Sandy Hollows’, nothing more is mentioned of[...]

Ehime (Shinto)

Ehime (Shinto)

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Iyo Family: Takeyoriwake (brother), Iiyorohiko (brother), Ogetsuhime (sister) Ehime Ehime (愛比売 – Lady Lovely) was one of the four kami of the Land of Groves according to the kojiki, residing in the South-West part of the Island called ‘Groves’. Nothing more is mentioned of her.1 Footnotes[...]

Gazu Hyakki Yagyō

Gazu Hyakki Yagyō

Gazu Hyakki Yagyō The Gazu Hyakki Yagyō (画図百鬼夜行), also called the Gazu Hyakki Yakō (The Illustrated Demon Horde’s Night Parade) is a compendium of Yōkai, demons and ghosts compiled by Toriyama Sekien, published in the Autumn of 1776. The books were inspired by the 10th Century Demon Horde’s Night Parade.[...]

Kurozuka

Kurozuka

Kurozuka The Kurozuka (黒塚) is a Yōkai depicted in the Gazu Hyakki Yagyō by Toriyama Sekien. She was also known as the Onibaba. This Yōkai is detailed in a 10th Century Poem in the Yamato Monogatari stating: At Kurozuka, in Adachi of Mutsu Province, lurks a demon, they say. Could[...]

Mutsu Province

Mutsu Province

See also: List of Provinces Mutsu Province Mutsu Province (陸奥国) is one of the many old Provinces of Japan. Originally known as Michinoku (陸奥 or 道奥) it was also known as Ōshu (奥州) or Rikushū and is categorized as one of the eight Tōsandō (Eastern Mountain Road) Provinces.12 The Province[...]

Onogoroshima

Onogoroshima

Onogoroshima Onogoroshima (淤能碁呂島) is the island formed by both Izanami and Izanagi using the Jewelled Spear of Heaven whilst standing upon the Floating Bridge of Heaven. The island formed after they used the Spear to churn up the ocean below, the salt which fell from the Spear piling up to[...]

Floating Bridge of Heaven

Floating Bridge of Heaven

Floating Bridge of Heaven The Floating Bridge of Heaven (天浮橋) is a mythological bridge where Izanagi and Izanami first came together to begin attempts at creating land on Earth. From here they thrust down the Jewelled Spear of Heaven into the Ocean, the salt that fell from the Spear forming[...]

Emperor Jimmu

Emperor Jimmu

Reign: 660-584BC Period: Legendary Period Family: Emperor Suizei (son) Burial Place: Near Mount Unebi. Order of Succession: Predecessor N/A  * Successor Emperor Suizei Emperor Jimmu Emperor Jimmu (神武天皇) was the first legendary Emperor of Japan, dated in the Nihongi to have begun his rule on 11th February 660BC in Kashihara,[...]

Taiheiki

Taiheiki

Taiheiki The Taiheiki (太平記, Chronicle of Great Peace) is a 14th Century chronicle. Within it contains several mentionings to certian Yōkai. One is that of Raigō, a monk, who dies from hunger strike. This is the result of the Emperor Shirakawa reneging on a promise he had made, causing him[...]

Tesso

Tesso

Tesso Tesso (鉄鼠) is a Yōkai depicted in the Gazu Hyakki Yagyō by Toriyama Sekien. His tale is related in the Taiheiki. This Yōkai takes the form of a plague of rats created by the Monk Raigō after his spirit was reborn, dying from a hunger strike, the hunger strike[...]

Terajima Ryōan

Terajima Ryōan

Period: Edo Period Occupation: Dentist, Author, Artist Birth: – Death: Terajima Ryōan Terajima Ryōan (寺島良安) was an Osaka Dentist but also was the creator of the Wakan Sansai Zue which would later greatly inspire Toriyama Sekien in his depictions of Yōkai. He spent years cataloguing Chinese information on astronomy, botany,[...]

Fujiwara Kamatari

Fujiwara Kamatari

Fujiwara Kamatari This is a redirect page for the Fujiwara Kamatari. We are a wiki as well as a Blog and podcast site which is constantly and steadily growing. Bringing to you all aspects of Japanese history. It is going to be a project which will expand continuously over the[...]

Fujiwara Clan

Fujiwara Clan

First Ruler: Fujiwara no Kamatari Final Ruler: – Dissolution: – Parent House: Nakatomi Clan For a full list of Japanese Clans see: Clans. Fujiwara Clan The Fujiwara Clan (藤原氏) is a descendant of the Nakatomi Clan and came into existence after Nakatomi no Kamatari had his family name changed by[...]

Nakatomi no Kamatari

Nakatomi no Kamatari

Period: Asuka Period Occupation: Naidaijin Family: Fujiwara no Fubito (son) Fujiwara no Higami no Iratsume (daughter) Fujiwara no Ioe no Iratsume (daughter) Birth: 614 Death: 669 Nakatomi no Kamatari Nakatomi no Kamatari (中臣 鎌足) was a member of the Nakatomi Clan and later founder of the Fujiwara Clan. Kamatari lived[...]

Yamawaro

Yamawaro

Yamawaro This is a redirect page for the Yamawaro. We are a wiki as well as a Blog and podcast site which is constantly and steadily growing. Bringing to you all aspects of Japanese history. It is going to be a project which will expand continuously over the coming years.[...]

Wakan Sansai Zue

Wakan Sansai Zue

Wakan Sansai Zue The Wakan Sansai Zue (和漢三才図会 – Illustrated Sino-Japanese Encyclopedia of the Three Realms) was published around 1712, and created by Terajima Ryōan. Toriyama Sekien was greatly inspired by this book for his Yōkai.1 Yōkai mentioned in the book include: Amanozako – Describes her appearance as a mix[...]

Chronicles of Old Matters of Former Ages

Chronicles of Old Matters of Former Ages

Chronicles of Old Matters of Former Ages This is a redirect page for the Chronicles of Old Matters of Former Ages. We are a wiki as well as a Blog and podcast site which is constantly and steadily growing. Bringing to you all aspects of Japanese history. It is going[...]

Kuijiki

Kuijiki

Kuijiki This is a redirect page for the Kuijiki. We are a wiki as well as a Blog and podcast site which is constantly and steadily growing. Bringing to you all aspects of Japanese history. It is going to be a project which will expand continuously over the coming years.[...]

Kokuki

Kokuki

Kokuki This is a redirect page for the Kokuki. We are a wiki as well as a Blog and podcast site which is constantly and steadily growing. Bringing to you all aspects of Japanese history. It is going to be a project which will expand continuously over the coming years.[...]

Kujiki

Kujiki

Kujiki The Kujiki (旧事紀) also known as the Kuijiki (English: Chronicles of Old Matters of Former Ages) is one of the earliest literary chronicles still in existence from Japan compiled in AD620. The text was entrusted to the Soga Clan. However when the house fell in AD645 a large part[...]

Mononobe no Moriya

Mononobe no Moriya

Period: Asuka Period Occupation: – Family: – Birth: – Death: – Mononobe no Moriya Mononobe no Moriya (物部 守屋) was head of the Mononobe Clan during the reign of Emperor Sushun. He, not wishing to have Sushun on the throne, and to promote a different candidate, ended up in a[...]

Leech Child

Leech Child

Leech Child This is a redirect page for the Leech Child. We are a wiki as well as a Blog and podcast site which is constantly and steadily growing. Bringing to you all aspects of Japanese history. It is going to be a project which will expand continuously over the[...]

Ebisu

Ebisu

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Wealth and Prosperity Family: Izanami (mother) Izanagi (father) Ebisu Ebisu (恵比寿), also known as the Leech Child (蛭子, Hiru-ko) was according to the kojiki the first child of Izanami and Izanagi. He was a limbless child and so they placed him in a reed boat and cast[...]

Sarume Clan

Sarume Clan

First Ruler: – Final Ruler: – Dissolution: – For a full list of Clans: See Clans. Sarume Clan The Sarume Clan were one of the many various clans of Japan. This clan claimed descent from the Shinto kami Ameno Uzume.1 Footnotes 1. Martin, P. (1997) ”The Chrysanthemum Throne”. Gloucestershire: Sutton[...]

Yatagarasu

Yatagarasu

Yatagarasu The Yatagarasu or Sun Crow (八咫烏) is noted to be a sign from the divine in Shinto mythology. One instance has the Sun Crow being sent to Emperor Jimmu after he and his men reached an impasse during their military exploits. Amaterasu the Sun-Goddesses told him in a dream[...]

Soga no Umako

Soga no Umako

Period: Asuka Period Occupation: – Family: Soga no Iname (father) Soga no Emishi (son) Emperor Sushun (nephew) Birth: – Death: – Soga no Umako Soga no Umako (蘇我 馬子) was a member of the Soga Clan noted to have been even more powerful than his father, Soga no Iname. During[...]

Soga no Iruka

Soga no Iruka

Period: Asuka Period Occupation: – Family: Soga no Emishi (father) Birth: – Death: – Soga no Iruka Soga no Iruka (蘇我 入鹿) was a member of the Soga Clan and alongside his father Soga no Emishi the two of them were very much in control of the political court. They[...]

Soga no Iname

Soga no Iname

Period: Kofun Period Occupation: Minister Family: Soga no Umako (son) Birth: – Death: – Soga no Iname Soga no Iname (蘇我 稲目) was one of the rulers of the Soga Clan, the Emperor Kinmei is known to have taken two of his daughters as consorts. Prior to the reign of[...]

Soga no Emishi

Soga no Emishi

Period: Asuka Period Occupation: – Family: Soga no Umako (father) Soga no Iruka (son) Birth: – Death:- Soga no Emishi Soga no Emishi (蘇我 蝦夷) was a powerful leader of the Soga Clan. Such was his political power he placed on the throne the Emperor Jomei making the Emperor a[...]

Kamo Clan

Kamo Clan

First Ruler: – Final Ruler: – Dissolution: – For a full list of Clans: See Clans. Kamo Clan The Kamo Clan (賀茂氏) is one of the various Clans of Japan. They are known to have taken charge of the Onmyōdō alongside the Abe Clan after it was created by Emperor Kōtoku.1[...]