Namazu: Giant Earthquake Catfish

In old Japan, myth has it that earthquakes are caused by a giant catfish (namazu). After the Great Ansei Earthquake of 1855 which hit Edo (now Japan Tokyo), a new type of color woodblock print blaming the fish became popular. Pink Tentacle explains:

These prints featured depictions of mythical giant catfish (namazu) who, according to popular legend, caused earthquakes by thrashing about in their underground lairs. In addition to providing humor and social commentary, many prints claimed to offer protection from future earthquakes.

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There was a very well done Japanese drama called Shika Otoko (English translation: Deer Man) that was based on the supposition that the giant catfish myth was actually true. The hero must figure out how to calm the giant catfish before it destroys Japan. Here is the description
http://wiki.d-addicts.com/Shikaotoko_Aoniyoshi
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