[]
Myths of Japan
  • Published: 18 August 2026
  • ISBN: 9780241740262
  • Imprint: Dorling Kindersley
  • Format: Hardback
  • Pages: 144
  • RRP: $45.00

Myths of Japan

Meet the Gods, Creatures, and Heroes of Ancient Japan

Pre-order from…
Book Hero BookHub Mighty Ape Paper Plus The Nile The Warehouse Whitcoulls Unity Books University Book Shop Find Local Retailers

A beautifully illustrated collection of more than 25 Japanese myths retold for children

From award-winning illustrator Katie Ponder, enter a world of powerful gods, extraordinary creatures and brave warriors in this thrilling compendium of Japanese myths. With more than 25 exciting tales backed up by fascinating historical information, this is a must-have introduction for young readers intrigued by the world of ancient Japanese culture and mythology.

From the creation of the world to the first emperors, this book charts the full sweep of Japanese myth, revealing fascinating aspects of ancient Japanese ritual and customs along the way. Meet a whole host of mischievous creatures, such as the shapeshifting fox-spirit kitsune and the turtle-like kappa who loves cucumbers and sumo-wrestling! Say hello to the mighty gods and emperors, including the legendary first emperor of Japan – Jimmu and the powerful sun goddess Amaterasu, the chief deity in Shintoism.

With delightful retellings by Japanese-born storyteller Masako Carey, Myths of Japan is the perfect gift for children who love myths and legends.
  • Published: 18 August 2026
  • ISBN: 9780241740262
  • Imprint: Dorling Kindersley
  • Format: Hardback
  • Pages: 144
  • RRP: $45.00
Categories:

About the author

DK

We believe in the power of discovery. That's why we create books for everyone that explore ideas and nurture curiosity about the world we live in.
 
From first words to the Big Bang, from the wonders of nature to city adventures, you will find expert knowledge, hours of fun and endless inspiration in the pages of our books. 

https://www.dk.com/
portrait photo of DK

Praise for Myths of Japan

Much like those fabulous gates that stand outside Shinto shrines, this beautifully illustrated compendium is a portal into a different world. These stories of the gods, heroes and magical creatures of ancient Japan may be about 1,200 years old, but for this reader, at least, they were completely new.

The Times, Children's Book of the Week