Otafuku is a curious crossbreed character, familiar to anyone who lives in Japan. She’s a dumpy, homely, cheery faced figure who’s also a bringer of happiness. At some shrines she’s given out as an engimono (good luck charm). But … Read the rest
Category: Mythology (Page 10 of 11)
Shrine approach
The Creation of Japan is closely connected with Awaji Island, and the guardian shrine for the myth is Izanagi Jingu (see Part One). The last time I visited the island was in 2002, at the time … Read the rest
Japan’s Creation Myth
The Creation of Japan myth (kuniumi shinwa) goes something like this. The deities of heaven (Takamagahara) ask a male and female pair to descend to the unformed land below and create order there so people … Read the rest
* The present emperor underwent a ceremony affirming his connection with the sun goddess, Amaterasu. He’s claimed to be the 125th descendant in direct line from her.
* The Rock Cave myth, central to Shinto, is funny and playful in … Read the rest
Today in Kyoto it’s snowing, and after the warmth of the Philippines I’m freezing! Meanwhile, the year of the dragon is well under way. In an article in the Japan Times our friend Amy Chavez has great fun with the … Read the rest
Foundation
Izumo Taisha is more than a shrine. It’s a legend, a symbol, a reminder of a once glorious past. It’s the country’s foremost shrine for enmusubi (love connections). It’s got the biggest honden (inner sanctuary) in Japan, and the … Read the rest
Some of my favourite places are those enriched by myth, but which have escaped untouched from the ravages of modern life. Take the west of England, with its Arthurian tales, Somerset legends and Glastonbury mystique. Here in Japan the … Read the rest