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← World Deities AtlasArticle · Japan

Japan · Shinto

Susanoo-no-Mikoto

Who is Susanoo-no-Mikoto? Susanoo is a complicated figure in Japan’s classical chronicles. He causes profound conflict but also performs heroic acts and establishes relationships with particular places.

stormsseaheroic disorder

Sacred or historical tradition guide · Original article · Context checked

Animated identity · ShintoSusanoo-no-MikotoJapan · storms · sea · heroic disorder

One doorway into the tradition

A key story

After exile, Susanoo encounters the eight-headed serpent Yamata no Orochi and rescues Kushinada-hime through a carefully planned defeat of the creature.

Recognisable attributes

Symbols and their setting

01Storm
02Sea
03Sword Kusanagi
04Eightfold serpent

Respectful reading

Context changes everything

Chronicle narratives are not a complete account of local shrine traditions. Susanoo remains honoured in living Shinto practice.

Begin with the community’s own name, place and practice. A short guide is an introduction—not a replacement for living voices or specialist scholarship.
Continue with museum and heritage collectionsThe Met · Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History ↗British Museum · Collection research ↗UNESCO · Living heritage ↗Use the deity’s own name, region and tradition when searching. Museum summaries are starting points, not substitutes for living practitioners or specialist scholarship.
嵐

Learn the story. Keep its context.

Sacred traditions deserve curiosity without simplification.

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