Facts about Kappa: Japanese Water Spirits

1. 05

   Kappa are described in Japanese folklore as having a beak-like mouth, a turtle-like shell on their back, and scaly or slimy greenish skin.

   Kappa: Japanese Water SpiritsJun 6sharefolkloremythologysupernatural
2. 04

   Polite behavior is central to kappa lore, as the creatures are said to be compelled to bow in return when greeted, causing the water in their head-dish to spill and rendering them powerless.

   Kappa: Japanese Water SpiritsJun 6sharefolklorejapanmythology
3. 03

   Legendary Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai depicted kappa in his illustrated works, helping to standardize their visual appearance in popular culture.

   Kappa: Japanese Water SpiritsJun 6sharefolkloreartjapan
4. 02

   In Japanese folklore, kappa are said to be appeased by cucumbers, which is why cucumber sushi rolls are called kappamaki.

   Kappa: Japanese Water SpiritsJun 6sharefolklorejapanfood
5. 01

   Kappa are depicted in Japanese folklore as water-dwelling creatures with a dish-like hollow on their heads that must remain filled with water to retain their power.

   Kappa: Japanese Water SpiritsJun 6sharemythologyfolklorejapan