Japanese dragons typically have only three claws.
Many cultures have dragon tales in their mythology and the Japanese culture is no exception. According to the experts at Dragons Inn, one story about the emigration of Japanese dragons suggests that the further away from their homeland they traveled, the more toes Japanese dragons acquired. Japanese dragons can be identified by their three toed feet, while Korean dragons have four toes and Chinese dragons have five toes.
Sea Dragons
Ryu, also known as "Tatsu" is the most well-known dragon in Japanese dragon mythology, according to the website Dragons Inn. Along with the unicorn, phoenix and turtle, Ryu is one of four divine animals referred to in Buddhism. Ryu's domain is the sea and he rules water and he can call forth a storm with his powerful howl. According to legend, a sea-serpent dragon named Yofune-nishi once enjoyed devouring lovely Japanese maidens until one day a brave young woman from Tokoyo slit his throat with her knife.
Good Fortune Dragons
Fuku Riu is a "good luck dragon," though he is difficult to identify. Dragons depicted with a pearl, a symbol of luck and success, and those who are ascending with their face turned to the sky are often assumed to symbolize good fortune. The Japanese goddess, Benten rides a dragon who frequently carries her to earth so they can prevent destructive dragons from wreaking their havoc on humans.
Dragon Kings
Ryu Jin is also known as Ryo Wo. He is the king of sea-dwelling serpents, has a human form and wears a serpent as a crown. His home is a palace under the sea and he employs a messenger named Ruija. Ryu Jin plays an important role as guardian of the Shinto religion. Sui Rui is the dragon king that rules rain. A story included in the mythology of Sui Rui is that he can cause rain to run red with his blood when he experiences pain. Han Riu is a colorful dragon that stretches 40 feet long, but can never stretch long enough to reach his longed-for destination, heaven. Han Riu's dragon skin is striped with nine separate colors. One of the few fire-dragons is Japanese myth, Ka Riu is small but mighty. He is only 7 feet long and his body is red as fire, in fact, it may be pure flame.
Dragons to Fear
A pure white dragon named O Goncho is a harbinger of famine and an unwelcome sight. Kiyo is a vengeful waitress-turned-dragon who hunts for the priest that lost interest in her charms. One of the most terrifying dragons to behold is the enormous Uwibami who snatches horsemen from their saddles and eats them on the spot.
