News&Articles

Hello everyone. Recently in Japan, especially around Yokohama, we have been having endless rainy days. It is easy to feel a bit gloomy when the sun doesn't come out, but today, let's change our perspective and talk about the "Japanese Gods of Rain."

The Japanese Rain God: Ryujin (The Dragon God) Since ancient times in Japan, it has been believed that the deities who control rain and water take the form of dragons. We call them Ryujin (Dragon Gods). Because Japanese history has been deeply rooted in rice farming, the dragon god who brings the rain is considered one of the most important and powerful deities that nurtures life.

A Sacred Purifier, Not a Monster While Western dragons are often depicted as terrifying, fire-breathing monsters, Japanese dragons are sacred beings that live alongside water. Have you ever noticed that at the entrance of Japanese shrines, the water for washing your hands often flows out of a dragon's mouth? That comes from the Shinto belief that water holds the power of purification. You could say that a rainy day is a day when the Dragon God washes away the dirt and fatigue of the city.

How to Spend a Rainy Day in Eastern Medicine The sound of rain naturally has a calming effect on our minds. From the perspective of traditional Eastern medicine, it is also said that on rainy days, it is best not to force yourself to go outside, but rather to rest well and align with the slow pace of nature.

That being said, having this rain continue for so many days in a row feels quite abnormal. Hopefully, we will be able to enjoy some bright, sunny days again very soon!