Dragons in Japan

Dragons have been present in Japanese culture since ancient times. They are associated with Shinto shrines as well as some Buddhist temples. They were imported from China where they originated but Japan added numerous national special features and new variations. They personify powerful godly forces that can bear both good and evil.

Japanese dragons are snake-like creatures without wings. They have scaly bodies, snake tails and sharp teeth and claws. They also have horns, antlers, thorns or beards. They can stretch their body and even metamorphose into a human being. This makes them very different from the European dragon which flies with its wings and spits fire.

Ykashi-ryu, a traditional Japanese dragon art, is usually painted on doors or walls of temple structures to guard the entrance. They are also considered symbols of wealth and strength. Besides Ykashi-ryu, dragons can be drawn on scrolls and other works as decorations and icons.

Ryujin, the sea Dragon King, is said to have a palace under the ocean where he welcomed lost humans. He is believed to have control over jellyfish, turtles and fish as well. According to legend, Ryujin’s daughter once got an incurable disease and the only cure was a monkey liver. When the jellyfish retrieved the liver, it became flat and boneless and eventually resembled the mollusc we know today.

Keisuke Teshima, aka One-Stroke Dragon, has been practicing hitofude-ryuu for over three years. He only paints three to five dragons a day. His goal is to convey the feeling of a bond that can’t be broken with his work. His art is highly sought after and he has received orders from as far as Florida and Mongolia.