Hiderigami (日照り神)

Name Meaning

Overview

Hiderigami (日照り神) literally means “Drought God” in Japanese and refers to a yokai or deity blamed for severe dry weather that devastates crops and causes hardship.

• Hideri (日照り) = drought or dry weather
• Gami/Kami (神) = god or spirit

Origin

• Described in various folklore as a malicious deity who appears during prolonged dry seasons.
• Worshipped or appeased with rituals in hopes of rain.
• Some legends say it flies across the sky like a meteor or fiery serpent.

Appearance

• Depicted as a gaunt, winged creature with a fiery or sun-scorched appearance.
• Some versions resemble a monstrous weasel or bat.
• Other forms include spirit-like figures in clouds or heat haze.

Behavior & Myths

• Wherever it goes, rain ceases and fields dry up.
• Farmers would offer sacrifices or hold ceremonies to drive it away.
• Sometimes appears as a punishment for human arrogance or neglect of the gods.

Symbolism

• Embodies the fear of famine and agricultural collapse.
• Represents nature's wrath and divine punishment.
• Highlights the importance of seasonal balance in Japanese agrarian society.