Japanese Mythology and Its Influence on Japanese Values and Culture
Japanese mythology is not just a collection of ancient tales but is deeply intertwined with the values, lifestyle, national identity, and cultural traditions of modern Japan. Below is an easy-to-understand explanation of its concrete impacts.
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1. Mythology as the Foundation of Japanese Culture
The Connection Between Shinto and Japanese Mythology
- Japanese mythology forms the foundation of Shinto, Japan’s traditional religion.
- Many deities worshipped in **shrines** are those that appear in Japanese myths (e.g., Amaterasu at Ise Shrine, Ōkuninushi at Izumo Taisha).
- Practices like shrine visits during **New Year’s Day (Hatsumōde)** or **Shichi-Go-San** are rooted in the faith inspired by these myths.
Influence on Annual Events
- Traditional events such as New Year’s, Setsubun, Tanabata, and summer festivals evolved from Shinto rituals based on mythology.
- Example: **Kagami-mochi** offered during New Year’s originates from customs of presenting offerings to the gods.
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2. Influence on Japanese Values
Reverence for Nature
- In Japanese mythology, nature itself is often deified (e.g., Ōyamatsumi, the god of mountains; Ōwatatsumi, the god of the sea).
- This has influenced the modern Japanese appreciation for nature and seasonal changes (e.g., cherry blossom viewing, autumn leaf hunting).
Harmony and the Spirit of Wa
- Many stories in Japanese mythology depict gods working together to create the nation or resolving conflicts.
- This "spirit of Wa" (harmony) continues to shape modern Japanese values of cooperation and peaceful coexistence.
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3. National Identity of Japan
Imperial Legitimacy
- The Japanese Imperial Family is described in mythology as descendants of Amaterasu, lending a sacred and legitimate foundation to the concept of the emperor.
- The emperor serves as the “symbol of the unity of the Japanese people,” a role rooted in mythological depictions of peace and prosperity.
National Foundation Day
- The enthronement of Emperor Jimmu in 660 BCE, as described in mythology, is celebrated as **National Foundation Day**.
- This provides Japanese people with an opportunity to reaffirm their history and identity through mythology.
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4. Influence on Arts and Pop Culture
Traditional Performing Arts
- Traditional Japanese arts such as **Noh**, **Kabuki**, and **Kyōgen** often incorporate themes and stories from Japanese mythology.
- Example: The Noh play *Ama no Iwato* depicts Amaterasu’s retreat into the celestial cave.
Modern Pop Culture
- Characters and legends from Japanese mythology frequently appear in modern anime, films, and novels.
- Example: The reverence for nature and gods in **Princess Mononoke** and the divine connections in **Your Name** reflect mythological elements.
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5. Mythology as a Tourism Resource
- Many sites associated with Japanese mythology and deities have become popular tourist destinations.
- Example: **Izumo Taisha** (linked to Ōkuninushi) and **Takachiho Gorge** (associated with the Tenson Kōrin myth).
- These locations allow visitors to connect with Japanese history and culture through the lens of mythology.
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6. Mythology as a Source of Comfort
- Japanese mythology conveys themes of overcoming adversity and restoring harmony.
- Example: The story of Amaterasu retreating into the cave, plunging the world into darkness, teaches the value of unity and recovery from hardships.
- Such stories continue to inspire hope and reassurance in modern society.
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- Conclusion
Japanese mythology, while ancient, remains deeply embedded in the lives and spirit of modern Japanese people.
It influences faith, culture, values, national identity, arts, and tourism, serving as a vital element of Japan’s cultural foundation.
Far from being mere legends of the past, Japanese mythology continues to support the identity and spirit of Japan today.