Demon Slayer: What Is The Influence Of Japanese Folklore And Mythology On The Show

Japanese culture has had a profound impact on the world of anime, and it's not uncommon for anime shows to incorporate elements of Japanese folklore and mythology into their stories and characters. From the use of traditional weapons and fighting styles to the inclusion of mythical creatures and supernatural powers, anime has long been a platform for exploring the rich cultural traditions of Japan.

Demon Slayer is a prime example of an anime that draws heavily from Japanese culture and mythology. The series is filled with references to traditional Japanese folklore, legends, and customs, which add depth and richness to the story. From the weapons used by the Demon Slayers to the powerful techniques used by the demons, everything in the show is infused with Japanese culture. In fact, Demon Slayer is arguably one of the most culturally-inspired anime shows to date, with its creators paying great attention to detail in their depictions of Japanese traditions.

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Demon Are Inspired By Oni

The Demons in Demon Slayer are modeled after the Oni, type of creatures from Japanese folklore that are often depicted as demons or ogre. The Oni are known for their superhuman strength and endurance and are known to have multiple horns on their head.

Similar to the Demons in Demon Slayer, Oni are known as ruthless creatures who are known for murdering and performing cannibalism. They are usually depicted in multiple colors like Blue, Red, and Yellow, and unusual bodies, like having a third eye, long fingers, and toes.

Inspiration For Nichirin Sword

The swords used by the Demon Slayers in Demon Slayer are called Nichirin Blades, and they are made from a special metal that can absorb sunlight. This is similar to the Totsuka-no-Tsurugi, a legendary sword from Japanese mythology. According to the myth, the god Susanoo used the sword to slay the Yamata no Orochi serpent. The sword was believed to shine like the sun and possessed powerful abilities.

The serpent Susanoo slayed with the Totsuka-no-Tsurugi was not an ordinary snake but a colossal eight-headed serpent named Yamata no Orochi. Using the legendary sword, Susanoo was able to cut through all eight heads of the serpent. After the battle, Susanoo offered the Totsuka-no-Tsurugi as a reconciliation gift to his sister, Amaterasu, and returned to heaven.

Hinokami Kagura Is Based On A Real Dance Form

In the world of Demon Slayer, the Hinokami Kagura is not just a simple dance but a sacred art passed down through Tanjiro's family for generations. It is regarded as a powerful weapon against demons and evil spirits, and its movements and techniques are infused with spiritual energy that can purify and exorcise the malevolent forces that threaten the balance of nature and humanity.

The real-world Kagura, on which the Hinokami Kagura is based, is a traditional Japanese dance that dates back to ancient times and has been preserved as an important cultural heritage. It is performed on various occasions, such as festivals, rituals, and ceremonies, to honor the gods and express gratitude for the blessings of nature. Through its graceful motions and vibrant rhythms, the Kagura embodies the beauty and vitality of life and inspires people to connect with their spiritual roots and celebrate their cultural identity.

Hanafuda Earrings Are Based On Japanese Playing Cards

In Demon Slayer, Tanjiro wears a pair of hanafuda earrings, which are based on a real-world Japanese card game. The hanafuda deck is traditionally used for gambling and is made up of 12 suits that represent different months of the year. In the anime and manga, Tanjiro's hanafuda earrings serve as a symbol of his connection to his family and his determination to protect humanity.

These earrings have been passed down through generations, and they were even worn by the strongest known Demon Slayer, Yoriichi, who is the ancestor of Tanjiro Kamado. That's the reason why Muzan was shocked to see Tanjiro when he encountered him, as the earrings reminded him of Yoriichi.

Use Of Onmyodo In Demon Slayer

Onmyodo is a type of traditional Japanese magic that is rooted in Taoism and has been practiced in Japan for centuries. It is often associated with the court of the Emperor, where Onmyoji, or practitioners of Onmyodo, used their skills to advise the rulers on matters of astronomy, divination, and spiritualism. Onmyodo involves the use of spells, talismans, and divination techniques to ward off evil spirits, cure illnesses, and ensure good fortune.

In Demon Slayer, the world of Onmyodo is expanded upon through the characters of Tamayo and Yushiro, who are skilled practitioners of the art. Tamayo, in particular, plays a significant role in the story, as she has developed a medicine that can turn demons back into humans, something previously thought impossible. Her Onmyodo skills are instrumental in creating this medicine, as she is able to extract and purify the demon blood needed to make it.

The breathing Technique Is Based On Ki

In Demon Slayer, the concept of breathing is central to the characters' abilities to fight and defeat Demons. This is based on the Japanese concept of Ki, which refers to a life force energy that can be harnessed through meditation and martial arts training. By controlling their breath and focusing their Ki, the characters are able to enhance their physical abilities, such as speed and strength, and channel their energy into powerful attacks.

This idea of Ki is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and has been used in martial arts practices such as karate, judo, and aikido. By incorporating this concept into the story, Demon Slayer pays homage to this aspect of Japanese culture and elevates the action sequences with a sense of spiritualism and depth.

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