Did Japanese folk monster Kappa really exist?

 Do you know Japanese folk monster named “Kappa”? It is very famous in Japan, and there are various Kappa all over Japan. They love cucumber and Sumo and have some common characteristics which have shell like a turtle, snout-like mouth like bird, web hand like a frog, and a plate on their head.　It seems that Kappa is one of river gods. Plate on head is the most important feature for Kappa and it is always wet and even if the plate is dry or broken, Kappa is unable to live.

It is not known what purpose Kappa existed for, but there are some stories that Kappa brings some happiness into the life of people who helps Kappa.

I think that Kappa may exist in ancient Japan with the following reasons. Firstly, there are some writing and painting with Kappa’s story. Secondly, some mummified remain believed to Kappa were discovered. Lastly, people may need folklore in ancient Japan to tell important thing with a big impact.

In the conclusion, I assume that people utilize Kappa’s story to say children to stay away from river not to cause water accidents of children with no adult round. The folklore will give children bigger impact than usual instruction/advice.