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Cryptid

Namazu - Earthquake Catfish

Beneath Japan lies a giant catfish. When it thrashes, earthquakes devastate the islands. Only the god Kashima can restrain it. When Kashima sleeps, Namazu awakens.

Ancient - Present
Japan
1000+ witnesses

Namazu is a giant catfish in Japanese mythology believed to cause earthquakes when it thrashes about.

The Legend

According to documented folklore:

Namazu:

  • Is a giant catfish living underground
  • Causes earthquakes when it moves
  • Is restrained by the god Kashima
  • Escapes when Kashima is distracted
  • Lives beneath the Japanese islands

Mythology

The belief states:

  • Kashima uses a large stone (kaname-ishi)
  • To pin Namazu down
  • When Kashima weakens or is away
  • Namazu escapes and causes quakes

1855 Edo Earthquake

After the devastating earthquake:

  • Namazu became a popular symbol
  • “Namazu-e” (catfish pictures) proliferated
  • The catfish was both feared and celebrated
  • It was seen as redistributing wealth

Cultural Impact

Namazu represents:

  • Japanese vulnerability to earthquakes
  • The unpredictable nature of disaster
  • Traditional attempts to explain seismology
  • Still referenced in earthquake culture

Sources

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