Are you interested in discovering the rich world of Japanese myth and folklore? Have you always wanted to know more about the history of Japan, and the gods and goddesses, creatures, and myths that form part of its culture? If you’ve been looking for a book to expand your comprehension of this mythology while enriching yourself with its wisdom, then keep reading… this is the book for you!
Japanese mythology is an affluent culture that encapsulates the Shinto and Buddhist traditions. In addition to some core beliefs that influence society, it also contains spiritual and religious folklore that not only shapes Japanese culture, but also guides the community on how to approach the dynamics of life.
Through this comprehensive guide, not only will you travel back to ancient worlds and legendary characters, but you’ll also uncover various creatures that encircle this unique world filled with stories about love, and sometimes betrayals, that remind us of our human nature, and even some extraordinary endings that will give you some more hope. By the time you come back to reality, you will be deeply intrigued but, most importantly, fulfilled. So, are you ready to embark on this adventure?
Inside Uncovering Japanese Mythology, you’ll discover:
- A comprehensive introduction to Japanese Buddhism, its brief chronology, and its traditional social culture
- The creation of Takamagahara, and an all-inclusive list and history of the gods and goddesses who helped shape the history and reality of this sacred mythology
- Empowering stories of the heroes who interact with gods, spirits, and other extraordinary creatures
- The most important supernatural creatures who live close to you, and who you interact with across various phases of life
- More than ten ‘never heard before’ folktales written through the Monogatari art form, highlighting extraordinary stories of ordinary people who’ve had the most unusual encounters in human history
The interaction between modernization, important Japanese concepts, and the Japanese reverence for the sun, is everything you’ve been yearning to understand. Each chapter in this book will bring you a step closer to a fascinating and mysterious world and culture that has been in existence for over 2,000 years!
Are you ready to embrace a better understanding of life under the rising sun? Then read Uncovering Japanese Mythology now!
Jimmy James –
If you’re a bit bored with a monotheistic god belief where the one person in charge is sitting on his hands, Then you’ll dig the Japanese and their hundreds of gods, who range from pranksters to fire-breathing protectors of the nation. This book is a great pick-up, put down and pick-up again romp through Japanese mythology. No wonder its people were described as “inscrutable,” as they must have never known which gods might take offense at the wrong expression. However, bedtime stories must have been way more exciting as an oral tradition than the moralizing claptrap doled up in the West.
Corns Elba –
If you are someone who is curious about Japanese myths, then this book is for you. The author’s writing style is very engaging and brings out the facts which keep you hooked. Certainly a handbook for those interested in Japanese myths & all the weird stuff that goes with them.
Jenson Rowland –
this is a book that explores the rich and fascinating world of Japanese mythology. Through the use of stories, folklore, and historical accounts, the book delves into the complex pantheon of gods and goddesses, creatures, and legends that make up this ancient belief system
Lysander Sutton –
Really interesting read and a real page-turner. I definitely recommend this book.Loved it
Curious Mind –
Looks like a well researched book
There are a lot of references in this book to other books and articles that gives you a sense that this is a well researched book. However, I didn’t find the book an enjoyable read. It is full of the the names of god and goddess without any picture or graph. I also found the text hard to follow up. There are some awkward sentences and paragraphs that needs to be corrected or rewritten. I think this book can greatly benefit from professional editing.
sarah baker –
A remarkable guide to one of the world’s most intricate mythological traditions.
“Uncovering Japanese Mythology” transcends the role of a mere compendium of stories. It is a testament to the power of storytelling, culture, and the enduring human fascination with the divine. With its accessible prose, contextual depth, and enthralling narratives, this book is a treasure trove that not only imparts knowledge but also kindles an enduring spark of curiosity for the captivating realm of Japanese mythology.
SQinOZ –
Well written and entertaining
I am tagging along on my husband’s business trip to Tokyo at the end of this month. I saw this book was on promotion and thought it would be helpful to read along with travel planning. I found the book very interesting because I did not know anything about Japanese mythology before I read it. I liked the introduction because the author provided background on Shintoism, Japanese Buddhism, and the different ruling periods from Japan’s long history which gave great context. I had no idea that there were so many Gods or fables. I found it very interesting that Japan has developed in isolation and yet they have so many Gods just like the ancient Greeks did. It is fascinating to me how people make sense of the world through religions, Dieties, and mythical creatures. The book was well-written and logically laid out. I’m glad I read it in preparation for my upcoming trip.
Adam Lewis –
Fantastic!
Even though I have lived in Japan for over 25 years and spent a great deal of that time learning the cultural history. There was still so much information in this book that I had never heard.It is well written and easy to read. If you love Japanese mythology and spiritual history then this is a no brainer.
Pope –
Great, in-depth overview of Japanese religion and mythology!
I found this book interesting in that it discusses something that we as a society (especially in the west) share a general collective knowledge of – Japanese mythology, through manga, Japanese films, etc. – but often lack a concrete understanding. I liked this book in that it does a good job in covering Japan’s culture, by discussing topics such as Japanese religious beliefs, social classes, history, and even the origins of Japanese fairy tales. One thing I liked in particular is that it cites sources, which serves the a positive academic benefit, and also allows the reader to dive deeper into the facts and ideas shared. From a historical perspective, it covers the important eras over the course of Japan’s existence. It additionally discusses a detailed set of Japanese gods and goddesses, of which there are plenty relating to the Shinto religion. It also goes into detail about folklore stories, which are quite charming, and often times either wise or inspirational. I would definitely pick this book up if you want to brush up on your knowledge of Japan, it’s religion and ultimately, its culture. I would even brush up again when preparing to visit the country. Great read!