Seiryū (青龍)

Name Meaning

Overview

Seiryū (青龍) translates to “Azure Dragon,” one of the Four Guardian Beasts in East Asian mythology.

• Sei (青) = Azure or Blue-Green
• Ryū (龍) = Dragon

Origin

• Originates from Chinese cosmology as one of the Four Symbols (Shijin), later adopted into Japanese Onmyōdō.
• Represents the east and is associated with the season of spring and the element of wood.
• Often invoked in esoteric Buddhist and Taoist rituals.

Appearance

• A long, serpentine dragon with scales in shades of green and blue.
• May be depicted among clouds or circling the heavens.
• Has claws, horns, and often glowing eyes that represent celestial insight.

Behavior & Myths

• Acts as a divine guardian of the eastern direction and a protector of Kyoto’s eastern temple, Kiyomizu-dera.
• Linked with rainfall, agricultural growth, and cosmic renewal.
• In rituals, offerings are made to Seiryū for prosperity and protection.

Symbolism

• Symbolizes power, protection, and spiritual rebirth.
• Embodies the balance between heaven and earth in the eastern quadrant.
• Respected as a noble spirit in both spiritual and natural cosmologies.