In a world thought to have been created - and nearly destroyed - by the primordial gods Izanagi and Izanami, mythic heroes battled ferocious dragons and giant spiders, while ordinary bamboo cutters and farmers made unexpected contact with the supernatural. ""Japanese Mythology A to Z, Second Edition"" is a valuable, colorful reference for anyone with an interest in mythology or Japanese culture. Coverage of this title includes: the early Japanese deities who created the world and the later deities who protect it; Kami, the spirits of all aspects of the living world; animals and mythological creatures; demons and bogeymen; shrines and other sacred places; stories from Kojiki and other historical records of ancient myths; historical emperors, empresses, heroes, and heroines whose deeds live on in legend; and, more.