Name Meaning
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.
