The concept of dragons was probably brought to Japan around 2,000 years ago, along with the technology for paddy agriculture. Their images have been found on the walls of barrow tombs dating to the late sixth and early seventh centuries. Out in the countryside, the Chinese images were combined with indigenous snake-spirits to form deities called ryujin, or "dragon-gods." Ryujin are common guardian spirits inhabiting lakes, marshes, rivers, and also bays and straights along the coast. Fishermen and farmers pray to them for rich harvests, big catches, and favorable weather, and legends like that of Imba Marsh can be found just about everywhere.
http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/newse/20020723wo72.htm
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