Magical Creatures in Japanese Mythology

Kami, which are the spirits that inhabit all things, can take many forms in Japanese myths. Beginning with the origin of the Japanese islands, several important creatures have contributed to the mythology of Japan. 

Izanagi and Izanami created the islands of Japan, after stirring the waters of the earth with a jeweled spear. They pulled the spear from the water to see if it had gathered sediment, and droplets of salt fell from the blade. These droplets formed the island known as Onogoro. The two settled on the island, then birthed eight children who became the other islands of Japan. 

There are also monkey-like creatures that the Japanese call kappa. The kappa live in ponds and rivers around Japan, and they are said to carry water with them in a hollow at the top of their heads. This water helps the kappa retain their magical powers, but if the water is spilled the kappa becomes powerless. 

Kappa are mostly polite creatures, but they are known to feast on the blood of humans and other animals. They have a tendency to bow when they meet new creatures, which also has the unintended effect of spilling the water in their skulls. Humans have been known to outsmart kappa by forcing them into promises they cannot keep, as kappas are known for fulfilling any promise they make. Kappa also eat cucumbers, and it is said that a family attacked by a kappa can write their names on a cucumber and throw it to the creature to save themselves.