Wiki Category: Places
All Pages on our site linked to Places.
Be sure to subscribe to our Podcast: Japan Archives. A weekly podcast into bite sized pieces of Japanese History.
If you want to help out our website let us known through our Contact Us page. We are a small team and any help from people who love Japanese history would only help to make this website expand even quicker than we are doing now.
Thank you for visiting our website, we try our best to make a useful website for all history enthusiasts and we hope you will recommend our site to others and come back again and again to learn more of Japanese History.
Again this is a page which links to pages relating to Places.
Kakurezato
KakurezatoKakurezato Kakurezato (隠れ里 – Hidden Village) is a type of yōkai/place depicted in the Konjaku Hyakki Shūi by Toriyama Sekien. This is the separate realm where yōkai, ghosts, mythical beasts, immortals and others not of this world live. This depiction of Kakurezato shows a celebration headed by Daikokuten, the god[...]
Hakutaku
HakutakuHakutaku Hakutaku (白澤 – Bai Ze) is a type of yōkai depicted in the Konjaku Hyakki Shūi by Toriyama Sekien. This creature is said to come from China, and taught the Yellow Emperor how to counter hauntings of every type. It gave the Emperor a detailed guide to the 11,520[...]
Takirei-ō
Takirei-ōTakirei-ō Takirei-ō (滝霊王 – Waterfall Spirit King) is a type of yōkai depicted in the Konjaku Hyakki Shūi by Toriyama Sekien. This creature is said to appear in waterfall basins of various regions. In the Blue Dragon Commentary it says all demons and calamities must submit to its authority. He[...]
Hōsōshi
HōsōshiHōsōshi Hōsōshi (方相氏 – Fangxiang Shi – An Exorcist) is a type of yōkai depicted in the Konjaku Hyakki Shūi by Toriyama Sekien. This creatures role is detailed in the 2nd Century Chinese Rites of Zhou which states: “The duty of Fangxiang Shi is to cover himself with bearskin, a[...]
Iyaya
IyayaIyaya Iyaya (否哉 – Oh No!) is a type of yōkai depicted in the Konjaku Hyakki Shūi by Toriyama Sekien. This is a sound response to seeing something. In the yōkai depiction it is when a beautiful woman catches her reflection in the water but she looks ugly.1 External Links View[...]
Ushirogami
UshirogamiUshirogami Ushirogami (後神 – The Kami Behind You) is a type of yōkai depicted in the Konjaku Hyakki Shūi by Toriyama Sekien. It is said that this kami accompanies the kami of cowardice. Whenever you think it is infront of you it will disappear behind you and pull your hair.[...]
Mekurabe
MekurabeMekurabe Mekurabe (目競 – Stared On) is a type of yōkai depicted in the Konjaku Hyakki Shūi by Toriyama Sekien. The story around this creature states that one night Taira no Kiyomori woke up to see skulls everywhere in a dream, they mulitplied from 2 to millions. He stared them[...]
Kyōkotsu
KyōkotsuKyōkotsu Kyōkotsu (狂骨 – Crazy bones) is a type of yōkai depicted in the Konjaku Hyakki Shūi by Toriyama Sekien. The creature is a skeleton in a well, though it is portrayed as quite ghost like. The depiction of a skeletal looking bamboo pole against withered tall grass can[...]
Mokumokuren
MokumokurenMokumokuren Mokumokuren (目目連 – Eye Eye) is a type of yōkai depicted in the Konjaku Hyakki Shūi by Toriyama Sekien. Sekiens desribes the creature as: ‘Spring mists leave no traces; gone like those who once lived in this abandoned house, now filled with eyes corner to corner. Perhaps it was[...]
Keukegen
KeukegenKeukegen Keukegen (毛羽毛現) is a type of yōkai depicted in the Konjaku Hyakki Shūi by Toriyama Sekien. This is a strange creature that is covered with hair, and it is said that sighting of this uncommon creature are rare. The name is written with the kanji Fur-Feather-Fur-Appearance.1 External Links View[...]
Byōbunozoki
ByōbunozokiByōbunozoki Byōbunozoki (屏風覗 – Screen Peeper) is a type of yōkai depicted in the Konjaku Hyakki Shūi by Toriyama Sekien. This is a type of spirit that can manifest from the grudge born of a woman not being able to be with her lover, the promise of meeting for[...]
Suzuri no tamashii
Suzuri no tamashiiSuzuri no tamashii Suzuri no tamashii (硯の魂 – The Haunted Inkstone) is a type of yōkai depicted in the Konjaku Hyakki Shūi by Toriyama Sekien. The story surrounding the creature states that a man had a fondness for the Akama-ga-seki (now Shimonoseki) inkstone he had. He fell asleep reading tale[...]
Yonaki no ishi
Yonaki no ishiYonaki no ishi Yonaki no ishi (夜泣き石 – The Stone that Wails at Night) is a type of yōkai depicted in the Konjaku Hyakki Shūi by Toriyama Sekien. This particular stone can be found in the Sayo no Nakayama pass in Enshū. The story around it says that a pregnant[...]
Mimorowake
MimorowakePeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: Prince Family: ? Birth: – Death: – Mimorowake Mimorowake is said to have been a Prince, during the reign of Emperor Keikō. He is sent to take over the post, governing the 15 Provinces of the Tōsandō, that Hikosajima was unable to fill. He is said[...]
Poems and Songs of Yamato Takeru
Poems and Songs of Yamato TakeruThis page serves as a list of all the songs and poems of Yamato Takeru. Poems and Songs of Yamato Takeru Sakawori Palace Staying at Sakawori Palace he composed a song at night time which went as follows: Since I passed Tsukuba, And Nihibari, How many nights have I slept?[...]
Amago Yoshihisa
Amago YoshihisaPeriod: Muromachi Period / Azuchi-Momoyama Period / Edo Period Occupation: – Family: – Birth: – Death: 1610 Amago Yoshihisa Amago Yoshihisa (尼子 義久) was a member of the Amago Family who died in 1610. In 1566 he was defeated by the Mōri Family, which led to the Amago Family losing[...]
Amago Haruhisa
Amago HaruhisaPeriod: Muromachi Period Occupation: – Family:- Birth: – Death: – Amago Haruhisa Amago Haruhisa (尼子 晴久) was a member of the Amago Family. His death, coupled with the defeat of Amago Yoshihisa in 1566 against the Mōri, ended most of the families power; with Tomito Castle falling into Mōri hands.1[...]
Amago Tsunehisa
Amago TsunehisaPeriod: Muromachi Period Occupation: – Family: Amago Mochihisa (grandfather) Birth: 1458 Death: 1541 Amago Tsunehisa Amago Tsunehisa (尼子 経久) was a member of the Amago Family living from 1458-1541.1 He extended the families power into Aki and Bingo Provinces fighting against the Mōri and Ōuchi Families.1 The families power additionally[...]
Amago Mochihisa
Amago MochihisaPeriod: Muromachi Period Occupation: – Family: Amago Tsunehisa (grandson) Birth: – Death: – Amago Mochihisa Amago Mochihisa (尼子 持久) was a member of the Amago Family, grandfather of Amago Tsunehisa. In 1392 he became shugodai (deputy military governor) of Izumo Province.1 Footnotes 1. Kodansha. (1993) ”Japan: An Illustrated Encyclopedia”. Tokyo:[...]
Amago Katsuhisa
Amago KatsuhisaPeriod: Muromachi Period / Azuchi-Momoyama Period Occupation: – Family: Birth: 1553 Death: 1578 Amago Katsuhisa Amago Katsuhisa (尼子 勝久) was a member of the Amago Family living from 1553-1578. Katsuhisa made attempts during his life to revive the families power with the aide of Yamanaka Shikanosuke as a vassal of[...]
Amago Family
Amago FamilyFirst Ruler:- Final Ruler: Amago Katsuhisa Dissolution: – Parent House: Kyōgoku Family For a full list of Clans: See Japanese Clans. Amago Family The Amago Family (尼子氏) was a daimyo clan of the Sengoku Period, descended from the Kyōgoku Family.1 They resided in the Chūgoku Region.2 In 1392 Amago Mochihisa[...]
Chichika no Inaki
Chichika no InakiPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: Warrior Family: – Birth: – Death: – Chichika no Inaki Chichika no Inaki is a warrior seen during the reign of Emperor Keikō from Owari Province. He is brought by Otohikogimi to help Yamato Takeru deal with the rebelling Kumaso.1 Footnotes 1. Aston. W.G. (1896) “Nihongi[...]
Tako no Inaki
Tako no InakiPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: Warrior Family: – Birth: – Death: – Tako no Inaki Tako no Inaki is a warrior seen during the reign of Emperor Keikō from Owari Province. He is brought by Otohikogimi to help Yamato Takeru deal with the rebelling Kumaso.1 Footnotes 1. Aston. W.G. (1896) “Nihongi[...]
Ishiura no Yokotachi
Ishiura no YokotachiPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: Warrior Family: – Birth: – Death: – Ishiura no Yokotachi Ishiura no Yokotachi is a warrior seen during the reign of Emperor Keikō from Owari Province. He is brought by Otohikogimi to help Yamato Takeru deal with the rebelling Kumaso.1 Footnotes 1. Aston. W.G. (1896) “Nihongi[...]
Otohikogimi
OtohikogimiPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: Archer Family: – Birth: – Death: – Otohikogimi Otohikogimi is said to have been an archer during the reign of Emperor Keikō living in Mino Province. He is brought by Miyadohiko to Yamato Takeru when he asks who he should take with him to deal with[...]
Yametsuhime
YametsuhimeAffiliation: Shinto Kami of: – Family: – Yametsuhime Yametsuhime is said to have been a kami that dwelt in the land of Yame in Tsukushi. They are mentioned by Saruohomi during the reign of Emperor Keikō when he inquired who lives in the area. It is also said this kami[...]
Saruohomi
SaruohomiPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: agatanushi of Minuma. Family: – Birth: – Death: – Saruohomi Saruohomi was the agatanushi of Minuma, seen during the reign of Emperor Keikō. When the Emperor arrives in Yame, Tsukushi, he asks if any kami live here. Saruohomi comes forth saying that the kami Yametsuhime lives[...]
Asotsuhime
AsotsuhimeAffiliation: Shinto Kami of: – Family: – Asotsuhime Asotsuhime is said to have been a kami, seen during the reign of Emperor Keikō. In the 18th year of his reign he arrives in the land of Aso in Tsukushi, asking who lives here and Asotsuhiko and Asotsuhime come forth saying[...]
Wohidari
WohidariPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: – Family: – Birth: – Death: – Wohidari Wohidari is a man seen during the reign of Emperor Keikō in the nihongi. He is said to be the ancestor of the Yama no Ahiko. The Emperor is said to have arrived in the area of Ashikata,[...]
Kosamebō
KosamebōKosamebō Kosamebō (小雨坊 – Drizzle Monk) is a type of yōkai depicted in the Konjaku Hyakki Shūi. This creature is said to live on Mount Ōmine and Mount Katsuragi and can be found begging for alms on nights with gentle rain.1 External Links View the book online here: Konjaku Hyakki Shūi Online.[...]
Idzuhime
IdzuhimePeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: kimi Family: – Birth: – Death: – Idzuhime Idzuhime was said to have been the kimi of Murokata. She is seen during the reign of Emperor Keikō during his tour of Tsukushi where she is invited to a banquet with the Emperor.1 Footnotes 1. Aston. W.G.[...]
Hinamori the Elder
Hinamori the ElderPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: Minister? Family: Hinamori the Younger (brother) Birth: – Death: – Hinamori the Elder Hinamori the Elder is a man seen during the reign of Emperor Keikō in the nihongi. In the 18th year of his reign, during his time touring around Tsukushi, the Emperor sees a[...]
Hinamori the Younger
Hinamori the YoungerPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: Minister? Family: Hinamori the Elder (brother) Birth: – Death: – Hinamori the Younger Hinamori the Younger is a man seen during the reign of Emperor Keikō in the nihongi. In the 18th year of his reign, during his time touring around Tsukushi, the Emperor sees a[...]
Poems and Songs of Emperor Keikō
Poems and Songs of Emperor KeikōThis page serves as a list of all the songs and poems of Emperor Keikō. Poems and Songs of Emperor Keikō Missing the Capital The nihongi records that in his 17th year of reign he vsited the Koyu District in Hyuga visiting the moors of Nimo there. Missing the capital[...]
Akamatsu Norisuke
Akamatsu NorisukePeriod: Kamakura Period / Muromachi Period Occupation: shugo Family: Akamatsu Norimura (father) Birth: 1311 Death: 1371 Akamatsu Norisuke Akamatsu Norisuke (赤松 範資) was a member of the Akamatsu Family living from 1311-1371. He was the son of Akamatsu Norimura. During his life he aided his father against the Kamakura Shogunate and served[...]
Akamatsu Norimura
Akamatsu NorimuraPeriod: Kamakura Period / Muromachi Period Occupation: shugo Family: Akamatsu Norisuke (son) Birth: 1277 Death: 1350 Akamatsu Norimura Akamatsu Norimura (赤松 則村) was the founder of the Akamatsu Family, living from 1277-1350 and father of Akamatsu Norisuke.1 He founded the clan in 1336 after he allied with Ashikaga Takauji2 and[...]
Akamatsu Family
Akamatsu FamilyFirst Ruler: Akamatsu Norimura Final Ruler: – Dissolution: – Parent House: Murakami-Genji For a full list of Clans: See Japanese Clans. Akamatsu Family The Akamatsu Family (赤松氏) was a descendant clan of the Minamoto, founded by Akamatsu Norimura in 1336 after he allied with Ashikaga Takauji to fight the Kamakura[...]
Minobi
MinobiMinobi Minobi (蓑火 – Raincoat Fire) is a type of yōkai depicted in the Konjaku Hyakki Shūi, also known as mino-mushi. This was a phenomenon in folklore which stated mino raincoats would at times spark during the rain. The only way to stop this was to remove the mino, but[...]
Kazenbō
KazenbōKazenbō Kazenbō (火前坊 – Bonze Before the Fire) is a type of yōkai depicted in the Konjaku Hyakki Shūi. This creature is said to rise form the bones of those interred on Mount Toribe when smoke rises over the mountain. This site was also the area where Buddhist monks practised[...]
Oboro-guruma
Oboro-gurumaOboro-guruma Oboro-guruma (朧車 – Gloom Cart) is a type of yōkai depicted in the Konjaku Hyakki Shūi. It is depicted as a travelling cart with a giant face. In essence it is not truly a creature, but a manefestation of the grudges of those who would try to find the best[...]
Momiji-gari
Momiji-gariMomiji-gari Momiji-gari (紅葉狩 – Momiji Hunting) is a depiction of a woman with a connection to a particular demoness in the Konjaku Hyakki Shūi. In this depiction she is shown in a mountain, holding a long-handled sake pot. This particular creature relates to the Demoness known as Kijo (a possible[...]
Ichikaya
IchikayaPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: – Family: Ichifukaya (sister) Birth: – Death: – Ichikaya Ichikaya was a member of the Kumaso and daughter to either Atsukaya of Sakaya, both of which were leaders of a group called the 80 Kumaso Braves. Emperor Keikō had come to Tsukushi to deal with the[...]
Ichifukaya
IchifukayaPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: – Family: Ichikaya (sister) Birth: – Death: – Ichifukaya Ichifukaya was a member of the Kumaso and daughter to either Atsukaya of Sakaya, both of which were leaders of a group called the 80 Kumaso Braves. Emperor Keikō had come to Tsukushi to deal with the[...]
Sakaya
SakayaPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: Chieftain Family: – Birth: – Death: – Sakaya Sakaya was one of the leaders of the Kumaso alongside Atsukaya, both of which were leaders of a group called the 80 Kumaso Braves. Emperor Keikō had come to Tsukushi to deal with the Kumaso rebellion and after[...]
Atsukaya
AtsukayaPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: Chieftain Family: – Birth: – Death: – Atsukaya Atsukaya was one of the leaders of the Kumaso alongside Sakaya, both of which were leaders of a group called the 80 Kumaso Braves. Emperor Keikō had come to Tsukushi to deal with the Kumaso rebellion and after[...]
Tsuchiworiwiwori
TsuchiworiwiworiPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: – Family: – Birth: – Death: – Tsuchiworiwiwori Tsuchiworiwiwori was a part of the Kumaso Clan residing on the island of Tsukushi mentioned in the nihongi during the reign of Emperor Keikō. When the Emperor comes to Tsukushi to defeat the rebelling Kumaso, a chieftain by[...]
Mimitari
MimitariPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: – Family: – Birth: – Death: – Mimitari Mimitari was a part of the Kumaso Clan residing on the island of Tsukushi mentioned in the nihongi during the reign of Emperor Keikō. When the Emperor comes to Tsukushi to defeat the rebelling Kumaso, a chieftain by[...]
Asahagi
AsahagiPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: – Family: – Birth: – Death: – Asahagi Asahagi was a part of the Kumaso Clan residing on the island of Tsukushi mentioned in the nihongi during the reign of Emperor Keikō. When the Emperor comes to Tsukushi to defeat the rebelling Kumaso, a chieftain by[...]
Kunimaro
KunimaroPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: – Family: – Birth: – Death: – Kunimaro Kunimaro was a member of the Kumaso Clan/Tsuchigumo which dwelt on the island of Tsukushi and we see him mentioned in the nihongi during the reign of Emperor Keikō. A female Chieftain called Hayatsuhime reveals to the Emperor that[...]
Yata
YataPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: – Family: – Birth: – Death: – Yata Yata was a member of the Kumaso Clan/Tsuchigumo which dwelt on the island of Tsukushi and we see him mentioned in the nihongi during the reign of Emperor Keikō. A female Chieftain called Hayatsuhime reveals to the Emperor that[...]
Shira
ShiraPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: – Family: – Birth: – Death: – Shira Shira was a member of the Kumaso Clan/Tsuchigumo which dwelt on the island of Tsukushi and we see him mentioned in the nihongi during the reign of Emperor Keikō. A female Chieftain called Hayatsuhime reveals to the Emperor[...]
Awo
AwoPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: – Family: – Birth: – Death: – Awo Awo was a member of the Kumaso Clan/Tsuchigumo which dwelt on the island of Tsukushi and we see him mentioned in the nihongi during the reign of Emperor Keikō. A female Chieftain called Hayatsuhime reveals to the Emperor[...]
Hayatsuhime
HayatsuhimePeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: Chieftain Family: – Birth: – Death: – Hayatsuhime Hayatsuhime was a part of the Kumaso Clan residing on the island of Tsukushi mentioned in the nihongi during the reign of Emperor Keikō. She reveals that there are Tsuchigumo by the names of Awo and Shira living[...]
Kamunashihime
KamunashihimePeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: Chieftain Family: – Birth: – Death: – Kamunashihime Kamunashihime was a part of the Kumaso Clan residing on the island of Tsukushi mentioned in the nihongi during the reign of Emperor Keikō. When the Emperor comes to Tsukushi to defeat the rebelling Kumaso, Kamunashihime submits herself[...]
Takemorogi
TakemorogiPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: Minister Family: – Birth: – Death: – Takemorogi Takemorogi was one of Emperor Keikō’s ministers who went with him to Tsukushi and is said to be the ancestor of the Omi of Oho. In the 12th Year, Autumn, 7th Month of the Emperor’s reign the Kumaso[...]
Natsubana
NatsubanaPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: Minister Family: – Birth: – Death: – Natsubana Natsubana was one of Emperor Keikō’s ministers who went with him to Tsukushi and is said to be the ancestor of the Kimi of Mononobe. In the 12th Year, Autumn, 7th Month of the Emperor’s reign the Kumaso[...]
Unade
UnadePeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: Minister Family: – Birth: – Death: – Unade Unade was one of Emperor Keikō’s ministers who went with him to Tsukushi and is said to be the ancestor of the Omi of Kusaki. In the 12th Year, Autumn, 7th Month of the Emperor’s reign the Kumaso[...]
Kumaso Rebellions
Kumaso RebellionsFor all battles on the site see: List of Battles. Kumaso Rebellions The Kumaso Rebellions relate to the times in which the Kumaso People, who were based in Tsukushi, rebelled against the Imperial Rule of Japan. Rebellion stopped by Emperor Keiko In the 12th Year, Autumn, 7th Month of Emperor[...]
Yanushioshihodakewogoro
YanushioshihodakewogoroPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: – Family: Kagehime (wife) Takeuchi no Sukune (son) Birth: – Death: – Yanushioshihodakewogoro Yanushioshihodakewogoro (屋主忍男武雄心命) is mentioned during the reign of Emperor Keikō. A divination was made to see if the Emperor should go to Kii to make sacrifice to all the kami. After an unlucky[...]
Ise Grand Shrine
Ise Grand ShrineCo-ordinates: 34°27′18″N 136°43′33″E Region: Kansai Region Prefecture: Mie Prefecture Founded: 4BCE Affiliation: Shinto Ise Grand Shrine The Ise Grand Shrine (伊勢神宮) is a Shinto Shrine dedicated to Amaterasu, located in Mie Prefecture. It is supposedly the resting place of the Sacred Mirror and was established by Yamatohime. Mythological Origins During[...]
Ototachibanahime
OtotachibanahimePeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: Princess Family: Yamato Takeru (husband) Wakatakehiko (son) Birth: – Death: – Ototachibanahime Ototachibanahime (弟橘媛) was one of the wives of Yamato Takeru and together they had a son by the name of Wakatakehiko. She is said to have been the daughter of Oshiyama no Sukune of the[...]
Ōtanehime
ŌtanehimePeriod: Legendary Period Occupation:- Family: Emperor Keikō (husband) Hiuga no Sotsuhiko (son) Birth: – Death: – Ōtanehime Ōtanehime (大田根媛) was one of several wives of Emperor Keiko and together they had a son by the name of Hiuga no Sotsuhiko. She is said to have come from Kaminaga in Hiuga.1 Footnotes[...]
Toyotowake
ToyotowakePeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: Prince Family: Emperor Keikō (father) Sonotakebime (mother) Kunichiwake (brother) Kunisewake (brother) Birth: – Death: – Toyotowake Toyotowake (豊戸別皇子) was the son of Emperor Keikō and Sonotakebime according to the nihongi.1 The kojiki states that he was the son of Keikō and ‘another concubine.’2 He is stated[...]
Longevity
LongevityLongevity Longevity (Chosei Furo – 長生不老) is one of many Japanese folktales, this one centered around a man known as Sentarō. Synopsis This tale has also been given the name of The Man who did not wish to die and goes as follow. There was a man called Sentarō and[...]
Rashōmon no oni
Rashōmon no oniRashōmon no oni Rashōmon no oni (羅城門の鬼 or 羅生門の鬼) was an oni said to have dwelt in the Rashōmon Gate of Heian-kyō. He is said to have been taller than the Gate, with hairy arms, eyes that flash like mirrors and flames which shot out of its mouth. The only salvation for[...]
The Clever Boar and Monkey
The Clever Boar and MonkeyThe Clever Boar and Monkey The Clever Boar and Monkey (賢い猿と猪) is one of Japan’s many folktales. Synopsis In the province in Shinshin there was a man who travelled around making a living by taking a monkey and around and making it do tricks. One day he returns home angry, saying[...]
The Oni of Adachigahara
The Oni of AdachigaharaThe Oni of Adachigahara The Oni of Adachigahara is one of many Japanese folktales, this one centering around an evil oni. Synopsis In Mutsu there was said to be oni who took the form of an old woman. People would go missing in the area and it was thought she was[...]
The Mirror of Matsuyama
The Mirror of MatsuyamaThe Mirror of Matsuyama The Mirror of Matsuyama, known in Japanese as Matsuyama kagami (松山鏡) is one of Japan’s many folktales. Synopsis In the province of Echigo lived a man and a wife who had one daughter aged seven. One day the man finds himself summoned to the capital in Kyoto,[...]
The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter
The Tale of the Bamboo CutterThe Tale of the Bamboo Cutter The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter, in Japanese known as the Taketori Monogatari (竹取物語) is one of the famous folktales from Japan. Synopsis There was an old man and woman who had no child. He would go every day and cut bamboo and made[...]
Chūjō-hime
Chūjō-himeChūjō-hime Chūjō-hime (中将姫), also known as Princess Hase, is said to have been the daughter of Fujiwara no Toyonari and a ‘Princess Murasaki.’ A folktale has sprung up around her life. Synopsis In Nara lived Fujiwara no Toyonari married to Princess Murasaki. They had no child, which caused them sadness[...]
Kintarō
KintarōKintarō Kintarō (金太郎) is a Japanese folktale centered around the life of a boy with the same name as the story. There are several versions of this tale and as we come across more of them we will add them to the website. Synopsis There was a man called Kintoki who[...]
Divine Treasures
Divine TreasuresSee also: Sacred Regalia Divine Treasures Divine Treasures appear to be some form of previous items gifted to Japan or brought to Japan by kami in the distant past. Reign of Sujin Under the rule of this Emperor there is made mention of Sacred Treasures which had been brought to[...]
Tajima Mori
Tajima MoriPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: – Family: – Birth: – Death: – Tajima Mori Tajima Mori (田道間守) is a man seen during the reign of Emperor Suinin, and is said to be the ancestor of the Miyake no muraji.12 He is stated in the nihongi as being the son of Amenohihoko[...]
Kiyohiko
KiyohikoPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: – Family: Prince Amanohihoko (great-grandfather) Birth: – Death: – Kiyohiko Kiyohiko was a man from the time of Emperor Suinin, said to have been the great-grandson of Prince Amanohihoko. Late in his reign the Emperor sends for the Divine Treasures brought at the start of his[...]
Ōhatanushi
ŌhatanushiPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: ōkannushi Family: – Birth: – Death: – Ōhatanushi Ōhatanushi is seen mentioned within the Jinnō Shōtōki where it states he was made the first Head Priest (ōkannushi) of the Ise Grand Shrine.1 Footnotes 1. Varley, H.P (1980) “A Chronicle of Gods and Sovereigns: Jinnō Shōtōki of[...]
Otanomikoto
OtanomikotoPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: – Family: Sarudabiko (ancestor) Birth: – Death: – Otanomikoto Otanomikoto also known as Okitama was a man mentioned within the Jinnō Shōtōki. He is said to have been a descendant of Sarudabiko and met with Yamatohime. During the establishment of the area to be used for the[...]
Yamatohime
YamatohimePeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: Princess / Established the Ise Shrine Family: Emperor Suinin (father) Hibasuhime (mother) Emperor Keikō (brother) Inishikinoiribiko (brother) Ohonakatsuhiko (brother) Wakakiiribiko (brother) Birth: – Death: – Yamatohime Yamatohime (倭比売命 / 倭姫命) was the daughter of Emperor Suinin and Hibasuhime and is creditted with the establishment of the Ise Grand Shrine.1[...]
Inaba Province
Inaba ProvinceSee also: Provinces Inaba Province Inaba Province (因幡国) is one of the many Provinces which once existed in Japan. Legendary Period Yamanobe no Ohotaka passed through here on his way to catch a swan for the Prince Homutsuwake.1 Footnotes 1. Yasumaro. O, translated by Gustav Heldt. (2014) “Kojiki. An Account[...]
Tajima Province
Tajima ProvinceSee also: Provinces Tajima Province Tajima Province (但馬国) is one of the many Provinces which once existed in Japan. Legendary Period During the 3rd year in the reign of Emperor Suinin, Prince Amanohihoko arrives with a gift of three gems (Habuto, Ashidaka and Ukaka) as well as an Idzushi short[...]
Ohokashima
OhokashimaPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: Five Daibu / saishu Family: – Birth: – Death: – Ohokashima Ohokashima is a mentioned during the reign of Emperor Suinin. He is said to have been one of the Five Daibu alongside Hikokunifuku, Takehi no Muraji, Tochine no Ōmuraji and Takenumakahawake. They are gathered by[...]
Yatsunada
YatsunadaPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: General Family: – Birth: – Death: – Yatsunada Yatsunada was a general of Emperor Suinin and is seen mentioned in the nihongi. In the fifth year of the Emperors reign, Sahobiko, brother to the Emperors wife Sahobime approached his sister asking who is most dearest to[...]
Amenohihoko
AmenohihokoPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: Prince Family: Mata no wo (wife) Tajima Mori (son) Kiyohiko (great-grandson) Birth: – Death: – Amenohihoko Amenohihoko/Amanohihoko (天之日矛) was a prince from Silla who visit Japan during the 3rd year of Emperor Suinin’s reign, it is said he decided to dwell in the land of Tajima[...]
Sonaka Cheulchi
Sonaka CheulchiPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: – Family: – Birth: – Death: – Sonaka Cheulchi Sonaka Cheulchi was a man mentioned during the reign of Emperor Suinin. At the start of his reign, after his marriage to Sahobime and the birth of their son Homutsuwake this man asked the Emperor to return[...]
Palaces
PalacesPalaces We are creating this page to serve as a place to list all of the different Palaces built and used through Japanese history. We will continue to update this page as we gain more information. Legendary Period Akitsushima Palace Located in Muro this was the palace of Emperor Kōan.5[...]
Kanibatatobe
KanibatatobePeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: Wife Family: Emperor Suinin (husband) Ihatsukuwake (son) Ihatsukubime (daughter). Yamashiro no Ohokuni no Fuchi (father) Karibatatobe (older sister) Birth: – Death: – Kanibatatobe Kanibatatobe (綺戸辺) was the wife of Emperor Suinin and together they had Ihatsukuwake123 and Ihatsukubime.12 The Emperor first heard of her when visiting Yamashiro[...]
Inishikinoiribiko
InishikinoiribikoPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: Prince Family: Emperor Suinin (father) Hibasuhime (mother) Emperor Keikō (brother) Ohonakatsuhiko (brother) Yamatohime (sister) Wakakiiribiko (brother) Birth: – Death: – Inishikinoiribiko Inishikinoiribiko (五十瓊敷入彦命) was the son of Emperor Suinin and Hibasuhime. During his lifetime he is said to have lived in the Kahakami Palace in Totori and[...]
Yamanobe no Ohotaka
Yamanobe no OhotakaPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: – Family: – Birth: – Death: – Yamanobe no Ohotaka Yamanobe no Ohotaka is a man seen in the kojiki during the exploits to try and get Prince Homutsuwake to speak. Though the prince had grown into a man he still could not speak, however, one[...]
Hinagahime
HinagahimePeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: Princess Family: Homutsuwake (husband) Birth: – Death: – Hinagahime Hinagahime (肥長比売) was the wife of Prince Homutsuwake. After the Prince had learnt to speak he was left to live in the palace of Nagaho in Ajimasa. Here he married Hinagahime for a single night where he discovered[...]
Homutsuwake
HomutsuwakePeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: Prince Family: Emperor Suinin (father) Sahobime (mother) Hinagahime (wife) Birth: – Death: – Homutsuwake Homutsuwake (誉津別命) was the son of Emperor Suinin and Sahobime.123 Birth Nihongi Version Homutsuwake was born prior to the assassination attempt on his father’s life by his mother. His mother, mourning that[...]
Tōdaiki
TōdaikiTōdaiki Tōdaiki (灯台鬼 – Candle Stick Demon) is a type of yōkai depicted in the Konjaku Hyakki Shūi. This tale can be found in the Wakan Sansai Zue. This creature was made after Minister Karu (軽大臣) was sent to China as an envoy. Once he was there he was poisoned by[...]
Dōjōji no kane
Dōjōji no kaneDōjōji no kane Dōjōji no kane (道成寺鐘 – The Bell of Dōjōji) is a type of yōkai depicted in the Konjaku Hyakki Shūi. The story behind this creature relates to the priest Anchin and his love Kiyohime. Kiyohime was the daughter of a wealthy merchant family and that her and[...]
Priest Dōin
Priest DōinPeriod: Heian Period Occupation: Waka Poet Family: Birth: 1090AD Death: c.1179AD Priest Dōin Priest Dōin (道因), also known as Fujiwara no Atsuyori, was a japanese poet who lived from 1090-c.1179AD. He was known for being mean. In addition to being a poet he also reached the fifth court rank and[...]
Fujiwara no Michimasa
Fujiwara no MichimasaPeriod: Heian Period Occupation: Poet Family: Fujiwara no Korechika (father) Birth: 992AD Death: 1054AD Fujiwara no Michimasa Fujiwara no Michimasa (藤原 道雅) was a member of the Fujiwara Clan, more specifically the Hokke Branch, living from 992-1054AD. He was the son of Fujiwara no Korechika and acted as Master of[...]
Fujiwara no Tsugukage
Fujiwara no TsugukagePeriod: Heian Period Occupation: Governor of Ise Province Family: Birth: – Death: – Fujiwara no Tsugukage Fujiwara no Tsugukage (藤原 継蔭) was a member of the Fujiwara Clan. He was the father of Lady Ise and acted as Governor of Ise Province in his lifetime.1 Footnotes 1. MacMillan, P. (2018)[...]
Ise Province
Ise ProvinceSee also: Provinces Izumi Province Ise Province (伊勢国) was one of the many provinces in Japan. Legendary Period During the reign of Emperor Suinin his daughter Yamatohime is entrusted with the care of Amaterasu. She goes searching for a place to enshrine Amaterasu travelling through Sasahata in Uda, then Mino[...]
Lady Ise
Lady IsePeriod: Heian Period Occupation: – Family: Fujiwara no Tsugukage (father) Nakatsukasa (daughter) Birth: c.875AD Death: c.938AD Lady Ise Lady Ise (伊勢) was the daughter of Fujiwara no Tsugukage, and therefore a member of the Fujiwara Clan. She was also the mother to Nakatsukasa. She is thought to have lived from[...]
Ihiirine
IhiirineFor the member of the Imperial Family see: Irine For the ancestor of the Haji Clan see: Iirine Period: Legendary Period Occupation: – Family: Izumo Furune (brother) Umashikarahisa (brother) Birth: – Death: – Ihiirine Ihiirine (飯入根) was the brother of Izumo Furune and Umashikarahisa. He gives over some sacred treasures[...]
Izumo Furune
Izumo FurunePeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: – Family: Ihiirine (brother) Umashikarahisa (brother) Birth: – Death: – Izumo Furune Izumo Furune (出雲振根) was a man who resided over the Izumo Shrine, and the Sacred Treasures there that had once been brought to earth by the kami Takehiratori. He is said to have been[...]
Takemorosumi
TakemorosumiPeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: – Family: – Birth: – Death: – Takemorosumi Takemorosumi (武諸隅命) is mentioned during the reign of Emperor Sujin. He is sent by the Emperor to Izumo Shrine to retrieve Sacred Treasures that had once been brought to earth by the kami Takehiratori. He is said to[...]
Atabime
AtabimePeriod: Legendary Period Occupation: Princess Family: Takehaniyasuhiko (husband) Birth: – Death: – Atabime Atabime (吾田媛) was the wife of Takehaniyasuhiko. The nihongi relates how she and her husband led armies to attack Emperor Sujin. Her army attacked from Ohosaka and her husband from Yamashiro Province. Her army was attacked by Kibitsuhiko[...]