The Legend of Yasakani no Magatama: Japan’s Sacred Jewel
When travelers think of royal treasures, images of the British Crown Jewels or European scepters often come to mind—objects of gold and diamonds displayed behind reinforced glass. However, Japan holds a set of royal treasures far more mysterious and spiritually significant: the Imperial Regalia of Japan, or Sanshu no Jingi. Among these three sacred items, the Yasakani no Magatama (the Grand Jewel) holds a unique place in history as perhaps the only original relic that remains with the Imperial Family today.
Steeped in Shinto mythology and kept hidden from the public eye for centuries, the legend of this green gemstone offers a fascinating glimpse into the soul of Japanese culture. Join us as we explore the origins, legends, and modern resonance of the Yasakani no Magatama.
Origins: The Ancient Significance of Magatama
Before diving into the specific legend of the Yasakani jewel, it is essential to understand what a magatama is. These curved, comma-shaped beads appear in the archaeological record of Japan dating back to the Jomon period (c. 14,000–300 BC). Initially crafted from animal teeth or stone, they evolved into polished jadeite, agate, and jasper.
Historians and archaeologists believe these beads served as talismans for good fortune and protection against evil spirits. The shape is thought to represent the soul (tama), the shape of a fetus, or even the moon. By the Yayoi and Kofun periods, magatama were distinct markers of high status and religious authority. The Yasakani no Magatama is the ultimate archetype of this tradition, symbolizing benevolence and the fluidity of the human spirit.
The Legend: Amaterasu and the Heavenly Cave
The mythological origin of the Yasakani no Magatama is recorded in Japan’s oldest historical chronicles. The story begins in the High Plain of Heaven (Takamagahara), centering on the Sun Goddess, Amaterasu Omikami, and her storm-god brother, Susanoo.
According to the legend, Susanoo’s violent behavior so terrified Amaterasu that she fled into the Ama-no-Iwato (Heavenly Rock Cave) and sealed the entrance, plunging the world into eternal darkness. To lure her out, the other gods devised a plan. They uprooted a sacred Sakaki tree and hung holy items upon its branches.
Among these items was a mirror (Yata no Kagami) and a string of curved jewels—the Yasakani no Magatama—crafted by the ancestral deity of bead makers, Ame-no-Akarutama. When Amaterasu, intrigued by the noise of a festive dance outside, peeked out, the brilliance of the mirror and the allure of the jewels captivated her, allowing the strong god Tajikarao to pull her from the cave and restore light to the world.
Later, Amaterasu bequeathed these treasures to her grandson, Ninigi-no-Mikoto, when she sent him down to rule Japan, commanding him to honor them as if they were her very presence. This marked the beginning of the Imperial line.
The Jewel in History
The Three Sacred Treasures—the sword (valor), the mirror (wisdom), and the jewel (benevolence)—have been passed down through generations of Emperors. However, the history of the jewel is particularly special.
While the original mirror is enshrined at the Ise Grand Shrine and the sword at Atsuta Shrine (with the original sword arguably lost at the Battle of Dan-no-ura in 1185), the Yasakani no Magatama is believed to be the original physical object from antiquity. It is currently housed within the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.
During the enthronement ceremonies of a new Emperor, known as the Kenji-to-Shokei-no-gi, the regalia are presented to the new monarch. However, even during this ceremony, the jewel remains hidden within a box. It is said that not even the Emperor is permitted to look directly upon the sacred object, preserving its purity and mystery.
Modern Culture
The cultural impact of the Yasakani no Magatama extends far beyond Shinto shrines and history books. It is a recurring motif in Japanese pop culture, representing ultimate power or spiritual energy.
- Anime and Manga: Fans of One Piece will recognize the character Kizaru, who uses an attack named “Yasakani no Magatama,” firing beams of light. Similarly, in Naruto, the Itachi Uchiha creates a spiritual weapon bearing the name.
- Video Games: In series like The King of Fighters and various RPGs, the Magatama appears as a powerful item essential for saving the world or proving one’s lineage.
- Symbolism: In modern design and logos across Japan, the comma shape remains a symbol of Japanese identity, often used to evoke feelings of tradition and spiritual protection.
Traveler’s Tips: Experiencing the Mystery
For travelers hoping to catch a glimpse of the Yasakani no Magatama, the reality is that the item itself is strictly off-limits. It is never put on museum display. However, you can still immerse yourself in the lore surrounding it.
- The Imperial Palace East Gardens (Tokyo): While you cannot enter the sanctuary where the jewel is kept, walking the grounds of the Imperial Palace offers a connection to the living history of the Imperial family.
- Ise Grand Shrine (Mie Prefecture): To understand the weight of these treasures, visit Ise Jingu. While it houses the Mirror, the architecture and atmosphere provide the context for the Shinto reverence of the Regalia.
- Souvenir Hunting: Many shrines across Japan sell magatama amulets made of jade, rose quartz, or onyx. Buying one is a great way to bring a piece of this ancient protection home with you.
Sources & Further Reading
To dive deeper into the mythology of the Yasakani no Magatama, the following historical texts are essential reading:
- The Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters): Japan’s oldest extant chronicle (dating to 712 AD), detailing the age of the gods.
- The Nihon Shoki (The Chronicles of Japan): Completed in 720 AD, this text provides a slightly more historical perspective on the same myths.
- The Heike Monogatari: For those interested in the fate of the sword and the transfer of the treasures during the Genpei War.