Exploring the Life, Myth, and Art of Japan

According to Japanese mythology, the cosmos took form spontaneously from chaos. Lighter elements formed the abode of the gods, while heavier ones became the shapeless Earth. Many divinities emerged in these two realms, but the seventh celestial couple consisted of Izanagi and Izanami, a god and goddess whose destiny was to establish the sea-kissed islands of Japan in the unruly waters far below. These and many other tales are told in this book. Readers will gain a greater understanding and respect for the ancient culture and mythology of Japan.