Wiki Category: Periods

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Mountains Family: Kagutsuchi (father) Masakayamatsu (sibling) Odoyamatsumi (sibling) Kurayamatsumi (sibling) Okuyamatsumi (sibling) Shigiyamatsumi (sibling) Harayamatsumi (sibling) Toyomatsumi (sibling) Hayamatsumi Hayamatsumi (羽山津見神 – Mountain Foot Majesty) is the sixth of eight Shinto Mountain kami born from the body of Kagutsuchi after he was beheaded by the sword Itsunoohabari, owned[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Mountains Family: Kagutsuchi (father) Masakayamatsu (sibling) Odoyamatsumi (sibling) Kurayamatsumi (sibling) Okuyamatsumi (sibling) Hayamatsumi (sibling) Harayamatsumi (sibling) Toyomatsumi (sibling) Shigiyamatsumi Shigiyamatsumi (志藝山津見神 – Mountain Forest Majesty) is the fifth of eight Shinto Mountain kami born from the body of Kagutsuchi after he was beheaded by the sword Itsunoohabari, owned[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Mountains Family: Kagutsuchi (father) Masakayamatsu (sibling) Odoyamatsumi (sibling) Okuyamatsumi (sibling) Shigiyamatsumi (sibling) Hayamatsumi (sibling) Harayamatsumi (sibling) Toyomatsumi (sibling) Kurayamatsumi Kurayamatsumi (闇山津見神 – Mountain Gorge Majesty) is the fourth of eight Shinto Mountain kami born from the body of Kagutsuchi after he was beheaded by the sword Itsunoohabari, owned[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Mountains Family: Kagutsuchi (father) Masakayamatsu (sibling) Odoyamatsumi (sibling) Kurayamatsumi (sibling) Shigiyamatsumi (sibling) Hayamatsumi (sibling) Harayamatsumi (sibling) Toyomatsumi (sibling) Okuyamatsumi Okuyamatsumi (奥山津見神 – Inner Mountain Majesty) is the third of eight Shinto Mountain kami born from the body of Kagutsuchi after he was beheaded by the sword Itsunoohabari, owned[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Mountains Family: Kagutsuchi (father) Masakayamatsu (sibling) Okuyamatsumi (sibling) Kurayamatsumi (sibling) Shigiyamatsumi (sibling) Hayamatsumi (sibling) Harayamatsumi (sibling) Toyomatsumi (sibling) Odoyamatsumi Odoyamatsumi (淤縢山津見神 – Younger Mountain Majesty) is the second of eight Shinto Mountain kami born from the body of Kagutsuchi after he was beheaded by the sword Itsunoohabari, owned[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Mountains Family: Kagutsuchi (father) Odoyamatsumi (sibling) Okuyamatsumi (sibling) Kurayamatsumi (sibling) Shigiyamatsumi (sibling) Hayamatsumi (sibling) Harayamatsumi (sibling) Toyamatsumi (sibling) Masakayamatsumi Masakayamatsumi (正鹿山津見神 – True Mountain Majesty) is the first of eight Shinto Mountain kami born from the body of Kagutsuchi after he was beheaded by the sword Itsunoohabari, owned by[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Ravines Family: Kagutsuchi (father) Kuraokami (sibling) Kuramitsuha Kuramitsuha (闇御津羽神 – Ravine Water Rushing) is a Shinto kami and the last of two Ravine kami born from the blood of Kagutsuchi after he was beheaded by the sword Itsunoohabari owned by Izanagi. The blood, caught upon the swords hilt[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Ravines Family: Kagutsuchi (father) Kuramitsuha (brother) Kuraokami Kuraokami (闇淤加美神 – Ravine Rain Serpent) is a Shinto kami and the first of two Ravine kami born from the blood of Kagutsuchi after he was beheaded by the sword Itsunoohabari owned by Izanagi. The blood, caught upon the swords[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Lightning Family: Kagutsuchi (father) Hihayahi (brother) Mikahayahi (brother) Takemikazuchinoo Takemikazuchinoo (建御雷之男神 – Brave Mighty Thunderbolt Man) is a Shinto Kami and the last of three Lightning Kami born from the blood of Kagutsuchi after he was beheaded by the sword Itsunoohabari owned by Izanagi. The blood, caught[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Lightning Family: Kagutsuchi (father) Mikahayahi (brother) Takemikazuchinoo (brother) Hihayahi Hihayahi (樋速日神 – Blazing Stormer) is a Shinto kami and the second of three Lightning kami born from the blood of Kagutsuchi after he was beheaded by the sword Itsunoohabari owned by Izanagi. The blood, caught upon[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Lightning Family: Kagutsuchi (father) Hihayahi (brother) Takemikazuchinoo (brother) Mikahayahi Mikahayahi (甕速日神 – Stern Stormer) is a Shinto kami and the first of three Lightning kami born from the blood of Kagutsuchi after he was beheaded by the sword Itsunoohabari owned by Izanagi. The blood, caught upon[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Family: Kagutsuchi (father) Nesaku (brother) Iwasaku (brother) Iwatsutsunoo Iwatsutsunoo (石筒之男神 – Stone Mallet Man) is a Shinto kami and the last of three born from the blood of Kagutsuchi after he was beheaded by the sword Itsunoohabari owned by Izanagi. The blood, caught upon the swords tip[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Family: Kagutsuchi (father) Iwasaku (brother) Iwatsutsunoo (brother) Nesaku Nesaku (根折神 – Root Splitter) is a Shinto kami and the second of three born from the blood of Kagutsuchi after he was beheaded by the sword Itsunoohabari owned by Izanagi. The blood, caught upon the swords tip dripped[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Family: Kagutsuchi (father) Nesaku (brother) Iwatsutsunoo (brother) Iwasaku Iwasaku (石折神 – Boulder Splitter) is a Shinto kami and the first of three kami born from the blood of Kagutsuchi after he was beheaded by the sword Itsunoohabari owned by Izanagi. The blood, caught upon the swords tip[...]

Itsunoohabari Itsunoohabari (伊都之尾羽張 – Stern Sweeping Blade) also Amenoohabari (天之尾羽張神 – Sweeping blade of Heaven) is the ‘ten span sword’ owned by the Shinto kami Izanagi. He uses the blade to behead his child Kagutsuchi, after he caused the death of his mother Izanami during child birth by burning her. The[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Fire, Volcanoes, Slash and Burn Agriculture Family: Izanagi (father) Izanami (mother) Haniyamahime (wife) Children (numerous, see below) Kagutsuchi Kagutsuchi (Flame Elder – 軻遇突智) is the kami of Fire in Shinto Mythology. He is also known as Hinoyagihayao (Swift Burning Flame Man), Hinokagabiko (Blazing Flame Lad), Hinokagutsuchi[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Family: Izanagi (father) Nakisawame Nakisawame (Much Wailing Woman1 kojiki – 泣沢女神, nihongi – 啼沢女命) is a Shinto kami born from the tears of Izanagi in mourning over his wife’s death. She is said to dwell on Kaguyama, at the base of the tree trunks there.12 We[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Family: Wakamusubi (father) Toyoukebime Toyoukebime (Lady Bountiful Fare), sometimes called Toyouke, is a Shinto kami said to be the daughter of Wakamusubi.12 She is worshiped in Ise.1 Footnotes 1. Yasumaro. O, translated by Gustav Heldt. (2014) “Kojiki. An Account of Ancient Matters”. New York: Columbia University[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Agriculture Family: Izanami (mother) Haniyamahime (mother) Kagutsuchi (father) Mizuhanome (sibling) Wakumusubi Wakumusubi (和久産巣日神 – Fresh Growth) is Shinto kami of Agriculture born from the urine of Izanami during her death throws after being burnt by the kami Kagutsuchi. He is the brother of Mizuhanome and has a child[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Irrigation Family: Izanami (mother) Wakumusubi (sibling) Mizuhanome Mizuhanome  (彌都波能売神 – Water Gushing Woman) was a child of Izanami, born from her urine during her death throws after being burnt after the birth of Kagutsuchi. She is the sister of Wakumusubi in the kojiki.1 The Engi Rites state[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: The Earth Family: Izanami (mother) Haniyasubiko (brother) Kagutsuchi (husband) Wakumusubi (child) Haniyasubime Haniyasubime (波邇夜須毘売神 – Lady Kneading Clay) is a Shinto kami born from the excrement of Izanami in her death throws after being burnt by giving birth to Kagutsuchi, this is all related in the Kojiki. Her[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Earth Family: Izanami (mother) Haniyasubiko Haniyasubiko (波邇夜須毘古神 – Kneading Clay Lad) is a Shinto kami born from the excrement of Izanami in her death throws after being burnt by giving birth to Kagutsuchi, this is all related in the Kojiki. His sister is the kami Hanayasuhime and[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Metals Family: Izanami (mother) Kanayamabiko (brother) Kanayamahime Kanayamahime (金山毘売神 – Lady Metal Mountain) is a kami born from the vomit of Izanami in her death throws after being burnt by giving birth to Kagutsuchi. This is mentioned in the kojiki.1 She is the sister of Kanayamabiko and the Engi[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Metals Family: Izanami (mother) Kanayamahime (sister) Kanayamabiko Kanayamabiko (金山毘古神 – Metal Mountain Lad) is a kami born from the vomit of Izanami in her death throws after being burnt by giving birth to Kagutsuchi. This is mentioned in the kojiki and nihongi.12 He is the brother of[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Family: Izanami (mother) Izanagi (father) Torinoiwakusufune Torinoiwakusufune (鳥之石楠船神 – Swooping Stone Hard Ship of Camphor Wood) also known as Amenotoribume (Bird Boat of Heaven) is said to be the son of Izanami and Izanagi in both the kojiki and nihongi12. In the kojiki he is said to[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: kami of the Earth Family: Izanami (mother) Izanagi (father) Haniyasu Haniyasu is a Shinto Earth kami mentioned in one version of the nihongi where she is stated to have been born by Izanami and Izanagi after the kami Kukunochi.1 Footnotes 1. Aston. W.G. (1896) “Nihongi Volume[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Hunger? Rice. Family: Izanami (mother) Izanagi (father) Alternatively Susano-o (father) Kamu Ōichihime (mother) Ukanomitama Ukanomitama (倉稲魂命) is a Shinto kami mentioned in one version of the nihongi where she is born from the hunger of Izanami and Izanagi after the kami Shinatsuhiko had been created.1 We find[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Family: Ōyamatsumi (father) Kayanohime (mother) Kuninosazuchi (brother) Amenosazuchi (sister) Amenosagiri (sister) Kuninosagiri (brother) Amenokurado (sister) Kuninokurado (brother) Ōtomatohiko (brother) Ōtomatohime Ōtomatohime (大戸惑女神 – Lady Great Valley) was the eighth and last child born to the kami Ōyamatsumi and Kayanohime according to the kojiki. Her name could alternatively[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Family: Ōyamatsumi (father) Kayanohime (mother) Kuninosazuchi (brother) Amenosazuchi (sister) Amenosagiri (sister) Kuninosagiri (brother) Amenokurado (sister) Kuninokurado (brother) Ōtomatohime (sister) Ōtomatohiko Ōtomatohiko (大戸惑子神 – Great Valley Lad) was the seventh of eight children born to the kami Ōyamatsumi and Kayanohime according to the kojiki. His name could alternatively be[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Family: Ōyamatsumi (father) Kayanohime (mother) Kuninosazuchi (brother) Amenosazuchi (sister) Amenosagiri (sister) Kuninosagiri (brother) Amenokurado (sister) Ōtomatohiko (brother) Ōtomatohime (sister) Kuninokurado Kuninokurado (国之闇戸神 – Land’s Steep Gorge) was the sixth of eight children born to the kami Ōyamatsumi and Kayanohime according to the kojiki.1 The nihongi makes no mention of this[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Family: Ōyamatsumi (father) Kayanohime (mother) Kuninosazuchi (brother) Amenosazuchi (sister) Amenosagiri (sister) Kuninosagiri (brother) Kuninokurado (brother) Ōtomatohiko (brother) Ōtomatohime (sister) Amenokurado Amenokurado (天之闇戸神 – Heaven’s Steep Gorge) was the fifth of eight children born to the kami Ōyamatsumi and Kayanohime according to the kojiki.1 The nihongi makes no mention of this[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Family: Ōyamatsumi (father) Kayanohime (mother) Kuninosazuchi (brother) Amenosazuchi (sister) Amenosagiri (sister) Amenokurado (sister) Kuninokurado (brother) Ōtomatohiko (brother) Ōtomatohime (sister) Kuninosagiri Kuninosagiri (国之狭霧神 – Land’s First Mist) was the fourth of eight children born to the kami Ōyamatsumi and Kayanohime according to the kojiki.1 The nihongi makes no mention of this[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Family: Ōyamatsumi (father) Kayanohime (mother) Kuninosazuchi (brother) Amenosazuchi (sister) Kuninosagiri (brother) Amenokurado (sister) Kuninokurado (brother) Ōtomatohiko (brother) Ōtomatohime (sister) Amenosagiri Amenosagiri (天之狭霧神 – Heaven’s First Mist) was the third of eight children born to the kami Ōyamatsumi and Kayanohime according to the kojiki.1 The nihongi makes no mention of[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Family: Ōyamatsumi (father) Kayanohime (mother) Kuninosazuchi (brother) Amenosagiri (sister) Kuninosagiri (brother) Amenokurado (sister) Kuninokurado (brother) Ōtomatohiko (brother) Ōtomatohime (sister) Amenosazuchi Amenosazuchi (天之狭土神 – Heaven’s First Soil) was the first of eight children born to the kami Ōyamatsumi and Kayanohime according to the kojiki.1 The nihongi makes no mention[...]

For the Yokai of the same name see: Nozuchi (Yokai) Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Herbs (nihongi) Moorland (kojiki) Family: Izanami (mother) Izanagi (father) Ōyamatsumi (brother/husband) Kuninosazuchi (son) Amenosazuchi (daughter) Amenosagiri (daughter) Kuninosagiri (son) Amenokurado (daughter) Kuninokurado (son) Ōtomatohime (daughter) Ōtomatohiko (son) Kayanohime Kayanohime (草野姫命 – Lady Thatch) also called Nozuchi (Moorland[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: The Mountains Family: Izanami (mother) Izanagi (father) Kayanohime (sister/wife) Kuninosazuchi (son) Amenosazuchi (daughter) Amenosagiri (daughter) Kuninosagiri (son) Amenokurado (daughter) Kuninokurado (son) Ōtomatohime (daughter) Ōtomatohiko (son) Several others. Ōyamatsumi Ōyamatsumi (大山祇 – Great Mountain Majesty) is the kami of the Mountains and was created by Izanami and[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: The Trees Family: Izanami (mother) Izanagi (father) Kukunochi Kukunochi (久久能智神 – Tree Trunk Elder1) is the ancestor of all trees, created by Izanami and Izanagi after the islands of Tsushima and Iki. This is related in the nihongi. Another version of the nihongi goes on to[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: The Winds Family: Izanami (mother) Izanagi (father) Shinatsuhiko Shinatsuhiko (志那都比古神 – Long Blowing Lad) is the kami of the Winds, born after the children of Hayaakitsuhime and Hayakitsuhiko. He was created by Izanami and Izanagi which is all related in the kojiki. Norito prayer (No.4) gives this[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: – Family: Hayaakitsuhiko (father) Hayaakitsuhime (mother) Aha Nagi (brother)  Awa Nami (sister) Tsuranagi (brother) Tsuranami (sister) Amenomikumari (sibling) Kuninomikumari (sibling) Amenokuizamochi (sibling) Kuninokuizamochi Kuninokuizamochi (国之久比奢母智神 – Land’s Dipper Holder) is mentioned in the Kojiki as a child of Hayaakitsuhime and Hayaakitsuhiko, the Estuary kami. They were the eighth and last[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: – Family: Hayaakitsuhiko (father) Hayaakitsuhime (mother) Aha Nagi (brother)  Awa Nami (sister) Tsuranagi (brother) Tsuranami (sister) Amenomikumari (sibling) Kuninomikumari (sibling) Kuninokuizamochi (sibling) Amenokuizamochi Amenokuizamochi (天之久比奢母智神 – Heaven’s Dipper Holder) is mentioned in the Kojiki as a child of Hayaakitsuhime and Hayaakitsuhiko, the Estuary kami. They were the seventh of eight[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: – Family: Hayaakitsuhiko (father) Hayaakitsuhime (mother) Aha Nagi (brother)  Awa Nami (sister) Tsuranagi (brother) Tsuranami (sister) Amenomikumari (sibling) Amenokuizamochi (sibling) Kuninokuizamochi (sibling) Kuninomikumari Kuninomikumari (国之水分神 – Land’s Watershed) is mentioned in the Kojiki as a child of Hayaakitsuhime and Hayaakitsuhiko, the Estuary kami. They were the sixth of eight born to[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: – Family: Hayaakitsuhiko (father) Hayaakitsuhime (mother) Aha Nagi (brother)  Awa Nami (sister) Tsuranagi (brother) Tsuranami (sister) Kuninomikumari (sibling) Amenokuizamochi (sibling) Kuninokuizamochi (sibling) Amenomikumari Amenomikumari (天之水分神 – Heaven’s Watershed) is mentioned in the Kojiki as a child of Hayaakitsuhime and Hayaakitsuhiko, the Estuary kami. They were the fifth of eight born to them with[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: – Family: Hayaakitsuhiko (father) Hayaakitsuhime (mother) Aha Nagi (brother)  Awa Nami (sister) Tsuranagi (brother) Amenomikumari (sibling) Kuninomikumari (sibling) Amenokuizamochi (sibling) Kuninokuizamochi (sibling) Tsuranami Tsuranami (頬那美神 – Wave Surface Woman) is mentioned in the Kojiki as daughter of Hayaakitsuhime and Hayaakitsuhiko, the Estuary kami. She was the fourth of eight born to them. Her[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: – Family: Hayaakitsuhiko (father) Hayaakitsuhime (mother) Awa Nami (sister) Aha Nagi (brother) Tsuranami (sister) Amenomikumari (sibling) Kuninomikumari (sibling) Amenokuizamochi (sibling) Kuninokuizamochi (sibling) Tsuranagi Tsuranagi  (頬那藝神 – Calm Surface Man) is mentioned in the Kojiki as son of Hayaakitsuhime and Hayaakitsuhiko, the Estuary kami. He was the third of eight born to them. His[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: – Family: Hayaakitsuhiko (father) Hayaakitsuhime (mother) Aha Nagi (brother) Tsuranagi (brother) Tsuranami (sister) Amenomikumari (sibling) Kuninomikumari (sibling) Amenokuizamochi (sibling) Kuninokuizamochi (sibling) Awa Nami Awa Nami (沫那美神 – Wave Foam Woman) is mentioned in the Kojiki as daughter of Hayaakitsuhime and Hayaakitsuhiko, the Estuary kami. She was the second of eight born to them[...]

Born: 1797 Died: 1858 Period: Edo Period Occupation: Ukiyo-e artist Utagawa Hiroshige Utagawa Hiroshige (歌川 広重) (1797-1858) was an Ukiyo-e artist who created the One Hundred Famous Views of Edo which includes depictions of the Yōkai‏‎ known as the Kitsune-bi due to their popularity.1 Footnotes 1. Yoda, H. and Alt,[...]

Region: Kanto Prefecture: Saitama Prefecture Mangyō-ji Mangyō-ji is a Buddhist temple within Saitama Prefecture. It has links to the story called The Bell of Nodera in which the fabled bell of Nodera Temple which was hidden by the monk during times of war was rediscovered by farmers. The bell was brought[...]

Shin Otogi Bōko The Shin Otogi Bōko (新御伽婢子) is a 1683 collection of stories. One of the stories within relates to the Buddhist monk Sōgen and his wicked deeds which led to him becoming the Yōkai Sōgen-bi.1 Footnotes 1. Yoda, H. and Alt, M. (2016) “Japandemonium: Illustrated: The Yokai Encyclopaedia[...]

One Hundred Famous Views of Edo One Hundred Famous Views of Edo (名所江戸百景, Meisho Edo Hyakkei) is a publication of Ukiyo-e prints created by Utagawa Hiroshige. Within its pages, it includes only one image with a supernatural element, where a Kitsunebi is depicted.1 References 1. Yoda, H. and Alt, M. (2016)[...]

Period: Heian Period Occupation: Samurai Miyamoto no Yoshitsune Miyamoto no Yoshitsune (源 義経) was a known martial artist and a Samurai during his lifetime. According to legend, he learnt his skills in martial art from the Yōkai known as the Tengu.1 Footnotes 1. Yoda, H. and Alt, M. (2016) “Japandemonium:[...]

Born: 1831 Died: 1889 Period: Edo Period Occupation: Artist Kawanabe Kyōsai Kawanabe Kyōsai (河鍋 暁斎) (1831-1889) was a Ukiyo-e artists who was associated with the Utagawa School. As a great artist he created many striking portrayals of Yōkai and Yurei inspired by Toriyama Sekien.1 Footnotes 1. Yoda, H. and Alt,[...]

Birth: 1839 Death: 1902 Period: Edo Period Occupation: Artist Tsukioka Yoshitoshi Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (月岡 芳年) (1839-1902) was an Ukiyo-e artist who was associated with the Utagawa School. As a great artist he created many striking portrayals of Yōkai and Yurei inspired by Toriyama Sekien.1 Known Works Footnotes 1. Yoda, H.[...]

Utagawa School The Utagawa School (歌川派) was a school dedicated to Ukiyo-e prints, founded by Utagawa Toyoharu1 Members Kawanabe Kyōsai, 河鍋 暁斎. Tsukioka Yoshitoshi, 月岡 芳年. Utagawa Toyoharu, 歌川 豊春. Footnotes 1. Yoda, H. and Alt, M. (2016) “Japandemonium: Illustrated: The Yokai Encyclopaedia of Toriyama Sekien.”. New York: over Publications,[...]

Reign: 1073-1087AD Period: Heian Period Family: Fujiwara no Kenshi (wife) Burial Place: – Order of Succession: Predecessor Emperor Go-Sanjō * Successor Emperor Horikawa Emperor Shirakawa Emperor Shirakawa (白河天皇) was the 72nd Emperor of Japan. Family He was married to the daughter of Morozane, Fujiwara no Kenshi.3 Childhood His wet nurse,[...]

Period: Legendary Period Family: Emperor Kotei (son) Emperor Yuhi Emperor Yuhi is mentioned as the father of the later Emperor Kotei in the Folktale known as The Shinansha. Nothing more is mentioned of him.1 Footnotes 1. Ozaki, Y.T. (1903) “The Japanese Fairy Book”. Westminster: Archibald Constable & Co. Ltd.[...]

Period: Legenedery Period Family: Emperor Yuhi (father) Emperor Kotei Emperor Kotei is said to have been the son of Emperor Yuhi, and is mentioned in the Folktale The Shinansha. He ascends as Emperor after his father, quickly becoming troubled by the rebel Shiyu who wished to take his throne. And[...]

Period: Legendary Period Occupation: Magician. Bandit. Shiyu Shiyu is noted to have been a rebel in the Folktale The Shinansha. He is said to have had been a wicked magician with a head made of iron, and that no man could ever defeat him. In the tale, he wishes to[...]

Takuroku Takuroku is a fabled location from the Folktale known as The Shinansha. Upon this plain, the Emperor Kotei and his army attack the forces of Shiyu, a rebel wishing to claim the throne. He was also a sorcerer and so when the battle began he summoned forth fog onto[...]

See also: List of Folktales See also: The Shinansha (Artefact) The Shinansha The Shinansha, also known as The South Pointing Carriage is a Japanese Folktale relating to China. Synopsis One day the mother of Emperor Kotei was out walking, looking at the North Star vivid flashes of lightning came from[...]

Reign: 673-686AD Period: Asuka Period Family: Empress Kōgyoku (mother) Empress Jitō (wife) Emperor Tenji (brother) Prince Kusakabe (son) Emperor Kōbun (nephew) Prince Ōtsu (son) Burial Place: – Order of Succession: Predecessor Emperor Kōbun * Successor Empress Jitō Emperor Tenmu Emperor Tenmu (天武天皇) (Prince Oama7) was the 40th Emperor of Japan reigning[...]

Reign: 672AD Period: Asuka Period Family: Emperor Tenji (father) Emperor Tenmu (uncle) Burial Place: – Order of Succession: Predecessor Emperor Tenji * Successor Emperor Tenmu Emperor Kōbun Emperor Kōbun (弘文天皇) (Prince Otomo2) was the 39th Emperor of Japan who ruled in 672AD. His father was the Emperor Tenji and was[...]

Reign: 661-672AD Period: Asuka Period Family: Emperor Kōgyoku (mother) Emperor Kōtoku (uncle) Emperor Kōbun (son) Empress Jitō (daughter) Emperor Tenmu (brother) Burial Place: – Order of Succession: Predecessor Emperor Saimei * Successor Emperor Kōbun Emperor Tenji Emperor Tenji (天智天皇) was the thirty-eighth Emperor of Japan, living from 626-672AD, and ruling[...]

Taika Reforms The Taika Reforms (大化の改新) were a set of governmental overhauls instigated by Emperor Kōtoku and created by Prince Naka with the help of Nakatomi no Kamatari. The Reforms set up new provincial administrative systems as well as instigating the organisation of a census and a land survey. Lots[...]

Reign: 645-654AD Period: Asuka Period Family: Emperor Kogyoku (sister) Prince Naka (nephew) Burial Place: – Order of Succession: Predecessor Empress Kogyoku * Successor Empress Saimei Emperor Kōtoku Emperor Kōtoku (孝徳天皇) was the 36th Emperor of Japan, reigning from 645-654AD.1 His name prior to ascension was Karu.2 Reign Kōtoku came to[...]

Reign: 642-645 (Kōgyoku) 655-661 (Saimei) Period: Asuka Period Family: Emperor Jomei (husband) Prince Naka (son) Emperor Kotoku (brother) Burial Place: – Order of Succession: 1st Reign Predecessor Emperor Jomei * Successor Emperor Kōtoku 2nd Reign Predecessor Emperor Kōtoku * Sucessor Emperor Tenji Empress Kōgyoku Empress Kōgyoku (皇極天皇) was the thirty-fifth[...]

Reign: 629-641AD Period: Asuka Period Family: Emperor Bidatsu (grand-father) Empress Kōgyoku (wife) Burial Place: – Order of Succession: Predecessor Empress Suiko * Successor Empress Kōgyoku Emperor Jomei Emperor Jomei (舒明天皇) was the thirty-fourth Emperor of Japan. He was the grandson of the Emperor Bidatsu1 and husband of Empress Kōgyoku.12 This[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Kibi no Ko Family: Izanami (mother) Izanagi (father) Takehikatawake Takehikatawake (建日方別 – Lord Sunward Brave) was the kami which inhabited the island of Kibi no Ko, according to the kojiki, nothing more is mentioned of him.1 The nihongi does not give a name to this kami,[...]

Reign: 593-628AD Period: Asuka Period Family: Emperor Bidatsu (husband) Emperor Kinmei (father) Emperor Yōmei (brother) Soga no Umako (uncle) Shōtoku Taisha (nephew) Burial Place: – Order of Succession: Predecessor Emperor Sushun * Successor Emperor Jomei Empress Suiko Empress Suiko (推古天皇) was the thirty-third Emperor of Japan1, younger sister to Emperor[...]

Reign: 587-592AD Period: Asuka Period Family: Soga no Umako (uncle) Burial Place: – Order of Succession: Predecessor Emperor Yomei * Successor Emperor Suiko Emperor Sushun Emperor Sushun (崇峻天皇) was the thirty-second Emperor of Japan. He was placed on the throne by Soga no Umako after winning a skirmish against Mononobe[...]

Shaku Nihongi The Shaku Nihongi (釈日本紀) is a piece of Japanese Literature dating to the 13th Century. This document preserves some of the Commentaries written concerning the Nihongi soon after its completion, the commentaries described as being written during the Eras Yōrō 714-724, Kōnin 810-824 and Engi 901-923.1 Footnotes 1.[...]

Kana Nihongi The Kana Nihongi is a Japanese text said to have existed before the creation of the Nihongi, due to this is may have been used in the composition of the Nihongi.1 Footnotes 1. Aston. W.G. (1896) “Nihongi Volume 1: Chronicles of Japan from the Earliest Times to AD697”.[...]

Region: Kansai Region Prefecture: Nara Prefecture Co-ordinates: 34°36′51″N 135°44′03″ Founded: 607AD Affiliation: Buddhism Horyu-ji Horyu-ji (法隆寺) is a Buddhist Temple constructed under the orders of Shōtoku Taisha. The Yumedono (Pavillion of Dreams) here is reputed as the place where he had prophetic dreams.1 The original form of the document known[...]

Period: Asuka Period Family: Emperor Yōmei (father) Empress Suiko (aunt) Occupation: Prince, sesshō Shōtoku Taishi Shōtoku Taishi (聖徳太子) also known as Prince Umayado was the son of Emperor Yomei nephew of Empress Suiko. He is said to have been able to speak at birth and was an accomplished scholar, able[...]

Reign: 585-587AD Period: Asuka Period Family: Emperor Kinmei (father) Empress Suiko (sister) Burial Place: – Order of Succession: Predecessor Emperor Bidatsu * Successor Emperor Sushun Emperor Yōmei Emperor Yōmei (用明天皇) was the thirty-first Emperor of Japan. He is known to have been the son of Emperor Kinmei and father to[...]

Reign: 572-585AD Period: Asuka Period Family: Emperor Kinmei (father) Empress Suiko (wife) Emperor Yōmei (half-brother) Emperor Jomei (grand-son) Burial Place: – Order of Succession: Predecessor Emperor Kinmei * Successor Emperor Yōmei Emperor Bidatsu Emperor Bidatsu (敏達天皇) was the thirtieth Emperor of Japan. During his reign there were several court power[...]

Period: Asuka Period Occupation: Emperor Emperor Kudara Emperor Kudara is the name ascribed to an Emperor who gifted the image of the Buddha as well as Buddhist scriptures to the Emperor Kinmei which would eventually lead to the adoption of the religion in Japan.1 Footnotes 1. Martin, P. (1997) ”The[...]

Reign: 539-571AD Period: Asuka Period Family: Emperor Keitai (father) Emperor Senka (brother) Emperor Bidatsu (son) Emperor Yomei (son) Empress Suiko (daughter) Burial Place: – Order of Succession: Predecessor Emperor Senka * Successor Emperor Bidatsu Emperor Kinmei Emperor Kinmei (欽明天皇) is the twenty-ninth Emperor of Japan. His brother was the Emperor[...]

Reign: 536-539AD Period: Kofun Period Family: Emperor Keitai (father) Emperor Ankan (brother) Emperor Kinmei (brother) Burial Place: – Order of Succession: Predecessor Emperor Ankan * Successor Emperor Kinmei Emperor Senka Emperor Senka (宣化天皇) was the twenty-eighth Emperor of Japan. Prior to his reign the Emperor both ruled as well as[...]

Reign: 531-536AD Period: Kofun Period Family: Emperor Keitai (father) Emperor Senka (brother) Emperor Kinmei (brother) Burial Place: – Order of Succession: Predecessor Emperor Keitai * Successor Emperor Senka Emperor Ankan Emperor Ankan (安閑天皇) was the twenty-seventh Emperor of Japan and may have been born when his father was only 13[...]

Reign: 507-531AD Period: Kofun Period Family: Emperor Ankan (son) Emperor Senka (son) Emperor Kinmei (son) Emperor Ojin (ancestor) Burial Place: – Order of Succession: Predecessor Emperor Buretsu * Successor Emperor Ankan Emperor Keitai Emperor Keitai (継体天皇) was the twenty-sixth Emperor of Japan. If the records are true he had his[...]

Reign: 498-507AD Period: Kofun Period Family: Burial Place: – Order of Succession: Predecessor Emperor Ninken * Successor Emperor Keitai Emperor Buretsu Emperor Buretsu (武烈天皇) was the twenty-fifth Emperor of Japan. During his reign he became well versed in law and enjoyed physical punishment known to have: Ripped up the belly[...]

See also: List of Folktales The Tongue Cut Sparrow The Tongue Cut Sparrow (舌切り雀) is a Folktale about an old husband and wife and a Sparrow. Synopsis The old man was kind-hearted and loving, however, the woman always spoiled the happiness of their home with her scolding tongue. The old[...]

Family: Otohime Sama (daughter) Urashima Taro (son-in-law) Ryūjin Ryūjin or Ryōjin (龍神) is the Dragon King of the Sea. He is mentioned in the tale Urashima Taro the Fisher Lad but not seen.1 Footnotes 1. Ozaki, Y.T. (1903) “The Japanese Fairy Book”. Westminster: Archibald Constable & Co. Ltd.[...]

For the member of the Imperial Family see: Otohime Family: Ryūjin (father) Urashima Tarō (husband) Otohime Sama Otohime Sama (乙姫) was the daughter and Princess of Ryūjin noted in the Folktale Urashima Taro the Fisher Lad. She is described as having lovely black hair fashioned in the style of hundreds[...]

See also: List of Folktales Urashima Tarō the Fisher Lad Urashima Tarō the Fisher Lad (浦島 太郎) is a Folktale about Urashima Taro and a Tortoise. Origins The earliest versions of this Folktale appear in the Tango Fudoki where the character of Urashima is given the name Shima no Ko.1[...]

Kōnin Shiki Kōnin Shiki. 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[...]

Co-ordinates: 34°40′12″N 135°39′2.5″ Region: Kansai Region Prefecture: Osaka Prefecture Founded: Affiliation: Shinto Hiraoka Shrine Hiraoka Shrine (枚岡神社) is a Shinto shrine with links to the Yōkai spirit called the Ubagabi. The creature is said to have been a fireball, though looked like an old woman, who had a habit of[...]

Kawachi Kagami Meishoki Kawachi Kagami Meishoki (A Record of Famous Places in Kawachi, 河内鉴名所记) is at the name suggests, a book centered on the area of Kawachi written in the 17th Century. Within the book it talks of the Yōkai Spirit the Ubagabi which haunts the area and Hiraoka Shrine[...]

Period: Asuka Period Occupation: Prince Family: Empress Jito (Mother), Emperor Tenmu (father) Emperor Monmu (son) Princess Abe (wife) Born: 661AD Died: 689AD Prince Kusakabe Prince Kusakabe (草壁皇子) was the son of Empress Jitō and Emperor Tenmu, and father to the later Emperor Monmu. His wife was Princess Abe. He was[...]

Period: Nara Period Family: Emperor Tenmu (father) Kiyohara no Fukayabu (descendant) Occupation: Prince Prince Toneri Prince Toneri (舎人親王) oversaw the creation of the Nihongi reputedly laying it before Empress Genshō alongside Ō no Yasumaro in 720AD.1 He is the ancestor of Kiyohara no Fukayabu.2 Footnotes 1. Aston. W.G. (1896) “Nihongi[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Sea Estuaries. Family: Izanami (mother) Izanagi (father) Hayaakitsuhiko (brother) Aha Nagi (son) Awa Nami (daughter) Tsuranagi (son) Tsuranami (daughter) Amenomikumari (child) Kuninomikumari (child) Amenokuizamochi (child) Kuninokuizamochi (child) Hayaakitsuhime Hayaakitsuhime (速秋津比売神 – Lady Rushing River Mouth) was the last of ten kami created after Izanami and Izanagi had created the Eightfold Isles and the[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: River Estuaries. Family: Izanami (mother) Izanagi (father) Hayaakitsuhime (sister) Aha Nagi (son) Awa Nami (daughter) Tsuranagi (son) Tsuranami (daughter) Amenomikumari (child) Kuninomikumari (child) Amenokuizamochi (child) Kuninokuizamochi (child) Hayaakitsuhiko Hayaakitsuhiko (速秋津日子神 – Rushing River Mouth Lad) was the ninth of ten kami created after Izanami and Izanagi had created the Eightfold Isles and the[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: The Ocean. Family: Izanami (mother) Izanagi (father) Ōwatatsumi Ōwatatsumi (大綿津見神 – Great Ocean Majesty) was the eighth of ten kami created after Izanami and Izanagi had created the Eightfold Isles and the six subsequent isles, according to the kojiki. The Engi Rites state a Shrine was[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: House Family: Izanami (mother) Izanagi (father) Kazamotsuwakenooshio Kazamotsuwakenooshio (風木津別之忍男神 – Grand Man Lord Wind Bearer) was a house kami. He was the seventh of ten kami created after Izanami and Izanagi had created the Eightfold Isles and the six subsequent isles, according to the Kojiki. Nothing more[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Family: Izanami (mother) Izanagi (father) Oyabiko Oyabiko (大屋毘古神 – Great Roof Lad) was a kami dwelt in the area of Woods and is known to have sent Ōkuninushi to Susano-o after saving him from his brothers. He was the sixth of ten kami created after Izanami[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Protecting the entrance of people’s homes. Family: Izanami (mother) Izanagi (father) Otohiwake Otohiwake (大戸日別神 – Lord Great Entry) was known as the kami charged with protecting the entrances of people’s homes. He was the fourth of ten kami created after Izanami and Izanagi had created the[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Family: Izanami (mother) Izanagi (father) Iwasuhime Iwasuhime (石巣比売神 – Lady Boulder Home/Lady Boulder Sands) was the third of ten kami created after Izanami and Izanagi had created the Eightfold Isles and the six subsequent isles, according to the Kojiki. Nothing more is mentioned of her. Her[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Family: Izanami (mother) Izanagi (father) Iwatsuchibiko Iwatsuchibiko (石土毘古神 – Boulder Ground Lad) was the second of ten kami created after Izanami and Izanagi had created the Eightfold Isles and the six subsequent isles, according to the kojiki. Nothing more is mentioned of him. His name implies[...]

Affiliation: Shinto Kami of: Family: Izanami (mother) Izanagi (father) Ōkotooshio Ōkotooshio (大事忍男神 – Grand Man of Great Matters) was the first of ten kami created after Izanami and Izanagi had created the Eightfold Isles and the six subsequent isles, according to the kojiki. Nothing more is mentioned of him.1 The[...]

Yamato Monogatari The Yamato Monogatari (大和物語, Tales of Yamato) is a 10th Century monogatari. Poets The poet Henjo is mentioned within the text, with many stories about his many lovers and religious conversations that he had included inside.2 Supernatural Creatures Within its texts it discusses the Yōkai known as the[...]