Japanese mortals have always had a major role to play in the mythology of the region. Many male and female characters have emerged from popular myths, folklore and oral traditions that still have a major role to play in modern society. While these characters are usually used to impart good values to children, they are also used as role models for the youth to aspire to.

Many of the mortals in the mythology are experts in one form of martial art or the other and have inspired many schools that teach the martial art that the character is known for.

Both good and evil mortals exist in the Japanese pantheon and are usually in conflict with hybrids, animals or other mortals as part of their storyline.