Ninigi-no-Mikoto facts for kids

Ninigi no Mikoto (瓊瓊杵尊) is an important figure in Japanese mythology. He was the grandson of Amaterasu, the sun goddess. Amaterasu sent him from Heaven to Earth to help start the first rice fields in Japan. Ninigi no Mikoto was also the great-grandfather of Emperor Jimmu, who is considered the first emperor of Japan.

Ninigi's Important Mission

Amaterasu sent Ninigi no Mikoto to Earth with a very special job: to bring peace and order to Japan. To help him, she gave him three amazing gifts. These gifts are known as the Imperial Regalia of Japan. They show that the emperor is a direct descendant of Amaterasu herself.

The Three Sacred Treasures

The three gifts Ninigi no Mikoto brought from Heaven are:

• The sword, called Kusanagi.
• The mirror, called Yata no kagami.
• The jewel, called Yasakani no magatama.

These treasures are super important in Japan. They are symbols of the emperor's power and connection to the gods.

The Story in Ancient Texts

The story of Ninigi no Mikoto coming down to Earth is told in an ancient Japanese book. This book is called the Nihon Shoki. It is one of the oldest official histories of Japan. It tells many stories about the gods and the early days of Japan.

Images for kids

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  Ninigi-no-mikoto statue at Kunimigaoka Viewpoint