![]() ![]() Email Mark.Īll stories and photos, unless specified otherwise, by Schumacher. Because of such tales, the dragon was often used in old-world Asia as the crest or emblem of imperial houses.Ĭopyright 1995 - 2013. See the DRAGON page for general details about this magical creature, or view the TALE OF HOORI to learn about the origins of Japan’s first human emperor, Jimmu Tenno. Indeed, the Japanese Imperial family claims direct descent from Princess Toyotama (Rich Jewel or Fruitful Jewel), who was the daughter of the Dragon King. According to mythology from both China and Japan, dragons possess the power of transformation, and can change themselves into alluring male or female forms and thereafter mate with people. Their supernatural powers include shape-shifting into human or animal forms, the ability to speak to humans without moving their mouth, the magic of moving instantly from place to place without using their wings, and the sorcery to appear uninvited in the dreams of the living.ĭRAGONS. Mountain and forest goblins with both Shinto & Buddhist attributes. ![]() In legends, the Tanuki can cast powerful illusions - they can turn leaves into fake money or horse excrement into a delicious-looking dinner. The term henge is also used to describe the various manifestations of Kannon Bosatsu.Īble to transform into human shape (typically that of a bewitching woman), and to hear and see all secrets of humankind, the fox is Inari’s messenger.Ĭan transform into any living or inanimate shape, but often assumes the form of a monk or a tea kettle to play tricks on people. Nonetheless, Japan’s imperial family even today claims direct descent from the line of the Dragon King. There is also the powerful Dragon, who is more closely aligned to Buddhist traditions. The latter is worshipped as the slayer of vanity and pride. ![]() Some say the Kitsune (fox) and Tanuki (racoon-like dog) are manifestations of the powerful Tengu (bird-man). All incorporate both Shinto and Buddhist attributes. In folklore, the Kitsune and Tanuki are masters of transformation, as is the Tengu, the bird-man goblin of mountain forests. English translations include 'soul of language', 'spirit of language', 'power of language', 'power word', 'magic word', and 'sacred sound'. Animals and mythological creatures that can transform themselves into humans or other entities - for either benevolent or malevolent purposes - are called henge 変化 in Japan. 'word spirit/soul') refers to the Japanese belief that mystical powers dwell in words and names. ![]()
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