Tradition: Chinese Mythology, Japanese Mythology
Alternative Names: 玄武, Xuanwu, Black Tortoise, Black Warrior, Genbu
Category: Turtle
The Myth
Genbu is one of the Four Symbols, the four sacred creatures that guard the cardinal directions in Chinese cosmology. It protects the north and is associated with the element of water and the season of winter. Genbu is usually depicted as a large tortoise entwined with a serpent, or as a creature whose tail takes the form of a snake.
The creature’s name combines gen, meaning black, with bu, associated with martial strength or armour. Ancient Chinese texts describe Genbu as a northern deity connected with water. The tortoise and serpent became linked in traditional explanations of the creature, including the belief that the serpent represented the tortoise’s male counterpart. However, some sources use Genbu simply as another name for a tortoise.
Together with the Azure Dragon of the east, the White Tiger of the west, and the Vermilion Bird of the south, Genbu became an important symbol of direction and protection. Through the transmission of Chinese culture to Japan, it also appeared in Japanese paintings, decorative objects, and other artistic traditions.
Sources
“Genbu (Xuanwu).” 新版TYZ 妖怪図鑑 (New TYZ Yokai Encyclopedia). https://tyz-yokai.blog.jp/archives/1085334207.html