Japanese mythology

Japanese mythology encompasses the traditional stories, beliefs, and religious narratives of Japan, drawing primarily from Shinto and Buddhist traditions.

Creation myths describe the divine couple Izanagi and Izanami forming the Japanese islands, while the sun goddess Amaterasu holds central importance as ancestor of the imperial line.

The mythology includes kami (nature spirits and deities), yokai (supernatural creatures like kappa and tengu), and tales of heroes and demons that continue to influence Japanese art, literature, and popular culture.