A. Sutherland - AncientPages.com - In Japanese mythology, Raijin (Raiden) is one of the eight gods of thunder and the master of lightning. His attribute is a sacred Taiko drum. He is commonly represented together with his brother, Fujin, the god of the wind, but his personal companion is Raiju (“thunder animal” or “thunder beast”).
Raijin is a major kami (in Shinto god/spirit) of lightning; he is also known as Kamowakeikazuchi-no-kami but the associations and roots remain unclear.
The beast is ,for example, described as looking like a cat, badger, ball of fire, ball of lightning, weasel, monkey, Tanuki (Japanese raccoon dog), a white and blue wolf. lf wrapped in lightning (its body is made of lightning and its cry sounds similar to that of thunder).
Raiju is a demonic creature, usually harmless and calm, but he loses his temper only during thunderstorms. He then becomes extremely agitated, leaping among trees, open spaces, and buildings.
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See also:
Nurarihyon: Powerful Demon Of Obscure Origin, Chief Of All Yokai
Mikoshi-Nyudo: Evil, Bald-Headed And Long-Necked Yokai Goblin In Japanese Folklore
Noppera-bo: Odd Intimidating Human-Like Faceless Yokai In Japanese Folklore
