Anime mythology

In 2012, to celebrate the 1200th anniversary of Kojiki (712), NHK commissioned a version of the Hyuga cycle of myths, central to the putative descent of the imperial line from heaven.

The animator is award-winning Koji Yamamura, born 1964. He studied painting at Tokyo Zokei University, and his short films have been shown in over 30 countries.  He is currently sub-chairman of the Japan Animation Association (JAA) and visiting professor at various art colleges.

The subtitled short film gives a succinct and rather charming overview of the central Kojiki myths from the time of Izanagi, Izanami and the creation of Japan.  Following this comes the death of Izanami, the pollution of Izanagi as he defies taboo to visit her, and the subsequent birth of Amaterasu, Susanoo and Tsukunomikoto representing sun, sea-storm and moon.

The story then focusses on Susanoo’s bad behaviour and the resulting retreat of Amaterasu into the famous Rock Cave.  Following the festival to lure her out, light is restored and Susanoo expelled.  The narrative thereafter centres on Ninigi no mikoto, who descends to earth and marries the blossom princess, Konohanasakuya (called here Flowering Tree).

The children of Ninigi and his bride are known as Umisachi and Yamasachi, who harvest from the sea and from the mountains respectively.  Following a quarrel over a fishing hook, Yamasachi spends three years at the palace of the Sea God and marries his daughter, Toyotama.  Aided by the Sea God, he returns to confront his brother, who yields to him. (Though not mentioned in the anime, Yamasachi’s real name was Hikohohodemi no mikoto, grandfather of legendary Emperor Jimmu and thereby an imperial ancestor.)

The Hyuga cycle of myths can be viewed here.  Set aside 12 minutes to take a look – you may find it educational as well as entertaining.

Izanagi undergoes the primal misogi which led to the birth of Amaterasu, Susanoo and Tsukuyomi no mikoto from his facial orifices (nose and eyes)