From Naruto To Spirited Away: Anime Inspired by Japanese Mythology

Numerous anime draw inspiration for their narratives and characters from the rich tapestry of Japanese mythology and folklore. These anime often weave beloved stories, including gods, yokai, and urban legends, into the very fabric of their own plots. Whether it's children forming bonds with yokai or demon hunters confronting one, the elaborate spiritual entities and legends from Japanese mythology have left a significant imprint on anime, establishing themselves as both revered and feared. Below, we explore several notable anime that have drawn substantial influence from Japanese mythology.

1. ‘Noragami’

‘Noragami’ is an instant modern classic. This anime (Anime for newcomers) centres around a deity who's fallen on hard times, lacking worshippers, and suddenly losing his weapon partner. A chance encounter with a girl who tries to save him from an accident leads to an unexpected friendship. Now, this deity needs her help to find a new partner, or she'll remain a wandering spirit forever. ‘Noragami’ is a stunning anime featuring outstanding animation, character designs, and thrilling action that breathe new life into age-old legends with a fresh and stylised perspective.

2. ‘Naruto’

Beyond the incorporation of concepts like chakra and elemental jutsu, the world of Naruto draws from a rich tapestry of Japanese myth (skincare myths) and legend. Many of the show's characters find inspiration in these sources. Take, for instance, the Nine-Tailed Fox, which takes its cues from the kitsune myth—a shapeshifting creature known for its cunning nature and unwavering loyalty once trust is established.

Moreover, the legendary Sannin, iconic figures within Naruto, are directly inspired by the nineteenth-century folktale "The Tale of Jiraiya the Gallant." This influence is most apparent in the chapter where Jiraiya and Tsunade thwart the plans of the serpent's offspring, Orochimaru. This deep connection to Japanese folklore adds layers of cultural richness and resonance to the series, making Naruto a captivating blend of myth, legend, and modern storytelling.

3. ’Spirited Away’

Discussing anime inspired by Japanese mythology without acknowledging the influence of Hayao Miyazaki would be remiss. Miyazaki has a remarkable talent for infusing monsters and spirits with an enchanting quality that is truly magical. In a hauntingly cinematic scene from 'Spirited Away,' Chihiro's parents unwittingly incur the wrath of the kami by consuming their food. This leads to their transformation into pigs, but it's Chihiro herself who becomes 'spirited away.'

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This term takes on a dual meaning in the context of the film. On one hand, it's a play on words, signifying the abduction of the protagonist. On the other hand, it's a literal representation of the traditional belief that displeasing the kami can result in being taken away rather than peacefully moving on after death. Miyazaki's ability to interweave these cultural elements into the narrative adds depth and significance to Chihiro's journey and the entire enchanting world of ‘Spirited Away.’

4. ‘Yamishibai: Japanese Ghost Stories’

Japanese folklore indeed offers a treasure trove of horror tales, and one enduring series takes full advantage of this chilling tradition. This long-running anthology series breathes new life into short and spine-tingling stories, drawing inspiration from kamishibai, a storytelling technique that thrived in early twentieth-century Japan.

The source material for these stories extends to Japanese urban legends, adding another layer of fright to the mix. For instance, some episodes delve into the unsettling accounts of the ‘Eight-Foot-Tall Woman,’ a notorious child-abducting figure, and the disturbing Internet rumours surrounding the Kunekune—a scarecrow-like entity capable of driving anyone who gazes upon it to madness.

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