Myth of the Week · Japan
Amaterasu for kids: the sun goddess of Japan
· P.Sean Tales
What would happen if the sun decided to hide? Japan's most famous legend has the answer. Amaterasu is the shining goddess of the sun and the most honored of all the kami — the spirits of Japanese mythology.
The day the world went dark
When her rowdy brother frightened her, Amaterasu hid inside a rock cave and rolled a boulder across the door. The sun vanished with her — the whole world went dark and cold, and nothing could grow.
The trick that brought back the sun
The other gods gathered outside the cave with a plan. They hung a beautiful mirror on a tree, and threw the loudest, funniest party they could. Curious about the laughter, Amaterasu peeked out — and saw her own dazzling reflection. As she stared in wonder, the gods gently rolled the boulder away, and sunlight returned to the world.
Why she still matters in Japan
Amaterasu is honored at the Grand Shrine of Ise, one of Japan's most special places, and old legends say Japan's emperors are her descendants. Her symbol — the sun — is even on Japan's flag today.
Did you know?
The mirror from the cave story is one of Japan's three Imperial Treasures, and its resting place is the Ise shrine — where it has been honored for well over a thousand years.
Color the legend yourself
Amaterasu shines in Japanese Gods & Dragons — with big line art, the real legend, a "did you know?" and a pronunciation guide on every spread. Keep exploring Japan:
- Japanese Gods & Dragons — Amaterasu, Ryujin & the kami
- Japanese Yokai & Tricksters
- Japanese Ghosts & Spirits
- Japanese Monsters & Heroes
Or start free: grab the free coloring pages.