TOP JAPAN 8 Animals in JAPANESE Culture / Tradition History and Mythology

There are some animals that play a very important role in Japanese culture. The tradition, history and mythology of Japan is full of fantastic tales and wonderful beings! (You can watch the video or continue reading below)

Today we are going to delve into the fascinating world of animals that have left a deep mark on Japanese culture and mythology. As in all cultures, Japan has its own animals that represent values, meanings, and traditions that have endured through the centuries.

Tombo: The Brave Dragonfly

We will begin our exploration with the “tombo”, known as the dragonfly in Spanish. This small insect has great relevance in Japanese culture, especially in relation to the samurai. The dragonfly represents perseverance and continuous progress, which makes it a highly appreciated symbol. In Japanese painting and fashion, such as yukatas and kimonos, you will often see representations of this animal. Like the dragonfly, the samurai strove to always move forward , never giving up, and this connection is deeply significant.

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Kitsune: The Crafty Fox

Our next protagonist is the “kitsune”, the Japanese fox. This animal has a special place in the Shinto pantheon, associated with the deity Inari . Foxes are believed to be able to shapeshift and trick people, making them cunning and mysterious beings. They are also attributed supernatural powers and are considered to bring abundance. Temples dedicated to Inari often feature fox statues and are very common in Japan.

Neko: The Guardian Between Worlds

The cat, a common domestic animal throughout the world, also has a special place in Japanese symbology. He is considered the guardian of the portal between life and death. He appears in movies, books, and even Studio Ghibli art. In the movie “Totoro”, for example, there are also references to the importance of the cat in Japanese culture. The book “I am a cat” by Natsume Soseki also addresses this special relationship with felines.

Komainu: The Magic Guardian

“Komainu”, resembling lion dogs, are commonly found at the entrances of Japanese shrines. These twin statues, one with its mouth open and the other closed, represent the beginning and the end, the “alpha” and the “omega”. These magical beings are believed to guard temples and can move in ancient Japanese legend . Although they are not real animals, they hold great significance in Japanese culture and are considered protectors.

Koi: The Symbol of Strength and Persistence

Koi, or Japanese carp, are found in rivers and ponds throughout Japan. This fish is known for its longevity and its ability to swim against the current. It is a symbol of strength and resistance, and it is believed that it can live up to 200 or even 300 years. The “koinobori”, the colorful carp-shaped flags seen on Children’s Day , symbolize this desire for children to grow up strong and persevering.

Tanuki: The Abundant Prankster

The “tanuki” is a peculiar animal found mainly in Japan. This raccoon dog-like animal has an intriguing history. In ancient times, he was considered a mischievous thief who stole from humans. However, over time, magical powers were attributed to it and it became a symbol of abundance and cunning. Statues of “tanuki” paunchy with umbrellas are common and represent the search for prosperity.

Shika: The Guardian of Nature

The “shika”, or Japanese deer, is an intelligent and revered animal in Japanese culture. He is considered a guardian of nature and is a symbol of peace. In Shinto temples, they are often depicted as protectors of the sacred . In Nara, deer are especially sacred due to a legend in which a white deer ridden by a deity descended from heaven to purify the earth.

Saru: The Clever Monkey

Finally, we have the monkey, which has a complex relationship with humans in Japanese culture. In the past, monkeys were believed to be divine messengers, but over time, they gained a reputation for being mischievous and disobedient. However, their intelligence and similarity to humans keep them in a special place in Japanese culture. The monkeys even appear at the famous Nikko Toshogu temple .

So here’s an overview of eight animals that play significant roles in Japanese culture and mythology. Each of them has its own set of meanings and symbolism, demonstrating the richness and diversity of Japanese tradition. Which of these animals do you find most interesting? Tell us in the comments!