Dragons of Fame

Ryo-Wo / Ryujin / Rinjin / Ryujin / Rinjin

Nickname/Translation: Luminous Being
Type/Species: Eastern Dragon
Origin: Japanese Mythology

History: It is said that this dragon lives in Ryugu, a mystical palace beneath the sea. Revered as god of the sea, this dragon was known as "the Dragon King." His messangers were the turtles. He also holds the Tidal Jewels, with which he controls the tidal influence of the world.¹

Many believe that Otohime, Ryo-Wo's daughter, marries prince Hoori, a human. Other tales include the story about the jelly fish.²

Ryo-Wo sent a jelly fish to find him a monkey. He simply wanted a monkey's liver for a meal. The jelly fish caught a monkey and began to bring him back to the Dragon King. Sadly, the jelly fish befriended the monkey and told him why he was going to see the dragon king.³

The monkey was not happy to hear this. However, he explained to the jelly fish that he had left his liver in a jar on the land. The jelly fish believed him. The monkey said that he would fetch his liver and come right back. Sadly, the monkey never returned, and the jelly fish was forced to return to the Dragon King empty handed. When hearing the story, the Dragon King pounded the poor jelly fish into the shape it is today.⁴

Symbolism: Revered, the Dragon King is a symbol of the sea and power.

1. Giants, Monsters, & Dragons by Carol Rose
2. Myths and Legends of Japan by F. Hadland Davis
3. Myths and Legends of Japan by F. Hadland Davis
4. Myths and Legends of Japan by F. Hadland Davis

For more information about footnotes and references, please see the bibliography.