Translation guide
A mythical water creature from Japanese folklore, often depicted as a humanoid turtle-like being with a dish on its head. In English, 'kappa' is used as a loanword for this creature, but it can also refer to the Greek letter or other concepts. This guide focuses on the Japanese folklore meaning.
Referring to the Japanese folklore creature, a water imp or sprite.
The standard Japanese word for the mythical kappa creature. Used in folklore, stories, and everyday references.
In some contexts, 'kappa' can refer to a cucumber, especially in sushi, because kappa are said to love cucumbers.
Used in sushi terminology: 'kappa maki' means cucumber roll. This is a set phrase.
Kappa are well-known in Japan, often used in proverbs and idioms. For example, '河童の川流れ' (kappa swept away by the river) means even experts can make mistakes.
河童は川に住んでいると言われている。
Kappa are said to live in rivers.
When I was a child, I often heard stories about kappa.
Hiragana form, commonly used in children's books or casual contexts.
A kappa appears in this picture book.
One cucumber roll, please.