Facts about Kappa, Japanese Water Spirit

1. 06

   Fearsome yet mischievous, kappa are blamed in Japanese folklore for drowning people, stealing crops, and causing illness, making them among the more dangerous yōkai.

   Kappa, Japanese Water SpiritJun 8sharefolkloremythologyjapan
2. 05

   Sumo wrestling is traditionally said to have been taught to humans by a kappa, connecting the creature to the origins of Japan's national sport.

   Kappa, Japanese Water SpiritJun 6sharefolkloremythologyjapan
3. 04

   Kappa are considered relatively benign when treated respectfully, and Japanese etiquette toward them includes bowing, which they reportedly return, causing their head-water to spill.

   Kappa, Japanese Water SpiritJun 6sharefolkloremythologyjapan
4. 03

   A kappa is often depicted with a beak-like mouth, scaly or reptilian skin, and a shell resembling a tortoise on its back.

   Kappa, Japanese Water SpiritJun 6sharemythologyfolklorejapan
5. 02

   In Japanese tradition, kappa are often said to have a fondness for cucumbers, which are sometimes offered to them as gifts or thrown into rivers as appeasement.

   Kappa, Japanese Water SpiritJun 6sharefolkloremythologyjapan
6. 01

   The kappa is a water-dwelling creature in Japanese folklore typically depicted as having a dish-like cavity on its head that must remain filled with water to retain its power.

   Kappa, Japanese Water SpiritJun 6sharemythologyfolklorejapan