The Beginning of Japan - The Land Created by Gods (Second half)
- Prologue: The Departure of Susanoo and the Dawn of a New Era
After slaying the fearsome Yamata no Orochi, Susanoo settled in the land of Izumo, building a new life with Kushinadahime. He reformed his once-violent nature, embraced family life, and worked toward es
However, this was merely the beginning of a new era that his descendants would go on to shape.
Meanwhile, in Takamagahara, a crucial decision was about to be made. Amaterasu, the sun goddess, declared that Ashihara no Nakatsukuni (the land of the reed plains) should be ruled according to the will of the heavenly gods. She thus began devising a plan to send a divine ruler to govern the earthly realm.
Thus, the story of Okuninushi, a descendant of Susanoo, begins. He would endure numerous trials, build a great nation, and ultimately make the momentous decision known as the "Transfer of the Land" to the heavenly deities.
This is the grand myth of how the world of gods transitioned into the world of humans.
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- Chapter One: Okuninushi – The Heroic God Who Ruled Izumo
Okuninushi is one of the most revered deities in Japanese mythology, known as the god who built the land of Izumo. He is worshipped as the god of nation-building, commerce, and matchmaking.
His story is one of hardships, trials, and, ultimately, negotiation with the heavenly gods, culminating in the historic "Transfer of the Land."
Okuninushi is also enshrined as the main deity of Izumo Taisha, a sacred site that continues to attract countless worshippers from all over Japan.
- The Birth of Okuninushi and His Many Trials
1. The Jealousy of His Brothers Over Yakami-hime
Okuninushi, a descendant of Susanoo, was born into a large family with many brothers known as the Yaso-gami (Eighty Gods). However, these brothers harbored deep jealousy toward him.
One day, the brothers all sought to marry Yakami-hime, a beautiful princess from Inaba. However, Yakami-hime declared, "I wish to marry Okuninushi instead."
(Art.Mochida daisuk)
Enraged by her choice, the brothers devised numerous trials to eliminate Okuninushi.
2. The White Rabbit of Inaba – A Testament to Okuninushi’s Kindness
Determined to get rid of him, the brothers tricked Okuninushi into walking across a burning field, led him into a dense forest, and repeatedly attempted to take his life. Yet, each time, his mother intervened to revive him, ensuring his survival.
One day, as he was wandering, he came across a crying white rabbit.
This was the famous White Rabbit of Inaba, a cunning rabbit that had tried to deceive sharks to cross the sea. However, upon being discovered, the sharks skinned the rabbit, leaving it in immense pain.
The brothers, seeing the suffering rabbit, gave it false advice: "Bathe in the sea and dry yourself in the wind." The rabbit followed their instructions, but instead of relief, it suffered even greater pain.
Just then, Okuninushi arrived. With gentle words, he advised,
"Wash your body in the river and wrap yourself in cattail fluff—it will heal you."
The rabbit followed his advice and soon recovered completely. In gratitude, it foretold,
"You are the one destined to marry Yakami-hime."
This episode is a symbolic representation of Okuninushi’s compassionate and benevolent nature.
- Trials in the Land of Ne and the Founding of Izumo
Trials in the Land of Ne – Marriage to Susanoo’s Daughter
Later, Okuninushi fell in love with Suseribime, the daughter of Susanoo.
However, Susanoo, skeptical of Okuninushi’s worthiness, subjected him to a series of grueling trials to prove himself.
- Trial of the Fiery Chamber
Susanoo locked Okuninushi inside a blazing fire chamber, intending to burn him alive.
However, Suseribime secretly provided him with water, allowing him to survive.
- Trial of the Serpent Chamber
Next, Susanoo sent him into a chamber filled with venomous snakes.
But Suseribime gave him a scarf that repelled snakes, ensuring his safety.
- Trial of the Centipede and Hornet Chamber
Lastly, Okuninushi was thrown into a room swarming with giant centipedes and hornets.
However, with the insect-repelling medicine that Suseribime provided, he emerged unharmed.
After passing all the trials, Okuninushi finally won Suseribime’s hand in marriage and became the ruler of Izumo.
Thus, he embarked on his journey as the great nation-builder of Japan.
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- Chapter Two: The Transfer of the Land and the Descent of the Heavenly Grandson – From the Land of Gods to the Land of Humans
1. The Decision of Takamagahara – The Prelude to the Descent of the Heavenly Grandson
Amaterasu, who ruled over Takamagahara, turned her gaze toward Ashihara no Nakatsukuni, the land of the reed plains. There, the Kunitsugami (earthly deities), led by Okuninushi, governed a prosperous nation.
However, Amaterasu believed that "the land should be ruled by one who carries the blood of the heavenly gods." Thus, she decided to send messengers to convey the will of the celestial deities.
The first deities dispatched as envoys failed in their mission, as Kotoshironushi, the son of Okuninushi, persuaded them not to proceed with the land transfer.
(Art.Mochida daisuk)
As a last resort, Amaterasu sent Takemikazuchi, the god of thunder and war, to negotiate the transfer of the land.
2. Takemikazuchi and Okuninushi – The Battle for the Transfer of the Land
Takemikazuchi descended to Izumo and confronted Okuninushi.
"The heavenly gods have decreed that they shall rule this land. Will you relinquish your kingdom?"
Okuninushi did not answer immediately. Instead, he decided to seek the opinions of his sons.
➤ Kotoshironushi’s Decision
His eldest son, Kotoshironushi, accepted the land transfer without resistance and immediately withdrew from the world.
➤ The Battle with Takeminakata
His second son, Takeminakata, was a powerful war god. He declared, "This matter should be settled through strength!" and challenged Takemikazuchi to a duel.
(Art.Mochida daisuk)
However, Takemikazuchi overwhelmed Takeminakata, chasing him all the way to Shinano Province (modern-day Nagano Prefecture). Fearing for his life, Takeminakata surrendered and vowed never to wage war again.
Thus, the transfer of the land was settled.
3. Okuninushi’s Condition – The Construction of Izumo Taisha
Having decided to yield the land, Okuninushi made a request to Takemikazuchi:
"In exchange for relinquishing my rule, I ask that a grand palace be built for me—one so magnificent that it reaches the heavens."
His wish was granted, leading to the construction of Izumo Taisha.
(The size at the time is estimated from an investigation of the remains of the main hall.)
Though he did not ascend to the realm of the gods, Okuninushi remained in Izumo to govern the unseen world.
With this, Ashihara no Nakatsukuni fell under the rule of Takamagahara, and preparations for the descent of the heavenly grandson were finally complete.
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- Chapter Three: The Descent of the Heavenly Grandson – The Arrival of Amaterasu’s Grandson on Earth
1. The Divine Mission – Amaterasu’s Decision
With the land now ready for governance, Amaterasu summoned her grandson, Ninigi-no-Mikoto, and declared:
"I bestow upon you this land. Take the Three Sacred Treasures and descend to rule Japan."
Thus, Ninigi descended from Takamagahara to Earth, an event known as Tenson Korin (the Descent of the Heavenly Grandson).
2. The Three Sacred Treasures – The Symbol of Imperial Legitimacy
Ninigi carried with him the Three Sacred Treasures, which symbolized the legitimacy of his rule:
Yata no Kagami (Eight-Span Mirror) – A mirror reflecting truth and sincerity (the symbol of Amaterasu).
Kusanagi no Tsurugi (Grass-Cutting Sword) – A sword representing martial power and victory (the legendary blade obtained by Susanoo after slaying Yamata no Orochi).
Yasakani no Magatama (Eight-Saka Magatama) – A mystical jewel embodying divine spiritual energy.
Ninigi descended to Takachiho, in present-day Miyazaki Prefecture, a place still revered today as the sacred site of the Heavenly Grandson’s descent.
3. Marriage with Konohanasakuya-hime and the Trial of Mortality
Upon arriving on Earth, Ninigi met a beautiful goddess named Konohanasakuya-hime.
She was the daughter of Oyamatsumi, the god of Mount Fuji, and was known for her fleeting beauty, like that of blooming flowers.
(Art.Mochida daisuk)
Ninigi fell in love at first sight and immediately proposed marriage. Oyamatsumi agreed, but also offered his elder daughter, Iwanaga-hime, in marriage.
However, Iwanaga-hime was unattractive, and Ninigi rejected her.
In response, Oyamatsumi lamented:
(Art.Mochida daisuk)
"Iwanaga-hime was sent to bestow eternal life upon you. Since you have rejected her, your descendants shall no longer be immortal, and their lives will be finite."
This myth explains why, despite being of divine descent, Japan’s emperors are not immortal but have a limited lifespan like ordinary humans.
4. The Birth of Japan’s First Emperor, Emperor Jimmu
Among Ninigi’s descendants, a boy would one day be born.
That boy would later become Emperor Jimmu (Jinmu Tennō), the first emperor of Japan.
As a direct descendant of the heavenly gods, Emperor Jimmu would go on to rule Japan, marking the official birth of the Japanese nation.
His story remains a foundational myth of Japan and continues to be told as the origin of the Imperial lineage.
For the story of Emperor Jimmu, please refer to a separate article.
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- Chapter Four: From Myth to the Modern Era – The Enduring Influence of Japanese Mythology
The foundation myths of Japan are not merely stories of the past—they continue to profoundly influence modern Japan. The worldview, rituals, and spirituality established by the gods are still embedded in various aspects of contemporary Japanese culture and society.
The Three Sacred Treasures and Imperial Succession – The Connection Between the Emperor and Mythology
The Three Sacred Treasures (Yata no Kagami, Kusanagi no Tsurugi, and Yasakani no Magatama) were bestowed upon Ninigi by Amaterasu when he descended to Earth. These are not just relics but serve as symbols of the legitimacy of the Imperial lineage, having been passed down through generations of emperors.
Yata no Kagami (Eight-Span Mirror) – Said to be enshrined in the Inner Shrine of Ise Grand Shrine.
Kusanagi no Tsurugi (Grass-Cutting Sword) – Believed to be housed in Atsuta Shrine.
Yasakani no Magatama (Eight-Saka Magatama) – Said to be kept within the Kashikodokoro of the Imperial Palace.
Since these treasures are never publicly displayed, their true forms remain known only to the Imperial family.
- The Modern Imperial Family and the Three Sacred Treasures
When an emperor ascends to the throne, a ceremony called "Kenji-tō Shōkei no Gi" (The Ceremony of the Inheritance of the Sacred Sword and Jewel) takes place. This is one of the most significant rituals based on Japanese mythology, reaffirming the divine nature of the Imperial lineage.
The unbroken tradition of the Imperial family, spanning over 2,600 years, remains deeply connected to Japan’s mythological heritage.
- The Influence of Shinto – The Roots of Japanese Mythology in Religion
Japanese mythology is not just a collection of stories—it forms the foundation of Shinto, Japan’s indigenous religion.
Shinto is characterized by nature worship and ancestral reverence, emphasizing harmony with the gods.
The Legacy of Mythology in Japanese Shrines
Across Japan, numerous shrines are dedicated to the deities of mythology, serving as a bridge between the ancient divine world and modern society.
Ise Grand Shrine (Ise Jingū) – The most sacred shrine in Japan, dedicated to Amaterasu, and deeply tied to the Imperial family.
Izumo Taisha – Revered for Ōkuninushi, the god of marriage and fate.
Takachiho Shrine – Located in Takachiho, the legendary site of Ninigi’s descent to Earth.
Atsuta Shrine – Said to house Kusanagi no Tsurugi, the legendary sword of Susanoo.
These shrines keep the spirit of mythology alive, offering places for worship and reflection.
- Festivals and Traditions Rooted in Mythology
Many myths continue to be passed down in the form of festivals, preserving their legacy in a modern context.
"Kagura of Amanoiwato Shrine" (Miyazaki Prefecture) – Based on the myth of Amaterasu hiding in the celestial cave.
"Izumo Kagura" (Shimane Prefecture) – A reenactment of Susanoo’s battle with Yamata no Orochi.
"Takachiho Night Kagura" (Miyazaki Prefecture) – A festival celebrating the descent of the heavenly grandson.
These festivals serve as living narratives, allowing people to connect with the ancient deities.
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- Final Chapter: The Spirit of Mythology in Japanese Culture – Tradition and Values
Japanese mythology has profoundly shaped the spiritual and cultural identity of Japan.
Core values such as harmony, coexistence with nature, and reverence for ancestors reflect the essence of mythological teachings.
1. The Spirit of Harmony (Wa no Seishin)
Japanese myths often depict gods resolving conflicts and restoring balance.
For example, the story of Amaterasu hiding in the celestial cave after Susanoo’s rampage teaches that "continued conflict plunges the world into darkness."
This resonates with the Japanese principle of "Wa wo motte tōtoshi to nasu" (harmony is the most precious value), which remains an essential part of Japanese culture.
2. Coexistence with Nature
Many deities born from Izanagi and Izanami are associated with natural elements, such as mountains, rivers, and wind.
The belief that gods reside in nature has influenced Japan’s strong environmental consciousness.
For example, sacred forests (Chinju no Mori) surrounding Shinto shrines are protected, reflecting the enduring reverence for nature.
3. Ancestral Worship and Family Bonds
The myth of Amaterasu sending Ninigi to Earth, and his descendants becoming emperors, is the foundation of ancestral worship in Japan.
Even today, the values of honoring one's lineage and respecting ancestors remain deeply ingrained in Japanese society.
Mythology Continues into the Future – Its Influence on Culture and Creativity
Japanese mythology has also influenced modern anime, games, and literature, ensuring its continued relevance in contemporary storytelling.
- Examples of Mythological Influence in Popular Culture:
"Princess Mononoke" (Studio Ghibli) – Explores themes of harmony between nature and humans.
"Okami" (Capcom) – A game centered around Amaterasu as the protagonist.
"Fate/Grand Order" – Features characters based on Susanoo and Ōkuninushi.
"Demon Slayer (Kimetsu no Yaiba)" – Incorporates sun worship and sacred dance elements.
"Naruto" – Borrows names from mythology, such as Susanoo and Amaterasu.
Through these works, Japanese mythology remains alive and continues to captivate new generations.
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- Conclusion: The Eternal Legacy of Japanese Mythology
Japanese mythology is not merely an ancient tale—it forms the backbone of Japan’s culture, faith, and values.
Even today, its influence can be seen in rituals, traditions, and daily life, symbolizing the continuity of Japan’s spiritual heritage.
More than just a collection of legends, these myths continue to live within us and will be passed down for generations to come.