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Citragupta, the attendant of Yama is commonly known as Taizanfukun in Japan. The idea of Taizan-fukun entered into Japan from India through China. This cult became very popular during the Tang dynasty of China. In Japan during the late Heian period the deity gained more importance In the Visnudharmottara he is described as two-handed. He is also placid looking. He keeps one eye on Yama. In his right hand he holds a pen and in the left a leaf. He is controlling the fortune and longivity of human being. Susanoqno-mikoto is sometime identified with Taizanfukun. no-mikoto is the younger brother of 'Amaterasu Omikami', the 1. Pageant of Japanese Art (Painting)(S), p. 161. 2. HDIJBP, p. 145. Susanoo

185 the Japanese sun goddess in the Shinto cult. 1 It is also believed in Japan that he is the god of the Taizan mountain. Taizanfukun is variously represented in paintings, specially in the Mandaras. According to the Chinese Buddhist Tripitaka 2 Taizan-fukun has his due place besides Emma's realm in the Vairadhatu Mandala (Kongo-kai-Mandara). Thus it is seen that the Japanese iconographic tradition which had its beginning in the 6th century, is highly rich, being represented in variety of forms. Now-a-days Japan is a modernised country with highly developed science and technology, Nevertheless, with its scientific progress it has not forgotten its tradition. She has all the respect for her old culture and traditional values. Buddhism was highly developed in the ancient and mediaeval periods. This religion is also prevailing in modern Japan, with a great force. Even during the post war period creative imagination of the nation took a new shape and form and strangely enough, without being deviated from the traditional customs and manners Japanese people's religious faith continued to remain stronger as ever. This is evident from the: mad rush in the temples on the ceremonial occasions. A new religious movement also gained momentum. Some of the new religious organisations are based on Shinto, while other are related to certain sects of Buddhism. Yet there are others which are formed with mixed religious ideas. Many of them undertake various social and cultural activities. Some also have come to engage themselves in substantial political activities. 1. HDIJBP, p. 139, Japanese Mythology, p. 15. 2. Chinese Buddhist Tripitaka, Vol. III.