It is said that the Japanese giant salamander is the inspiration behind the mythological creature known as the kappa, an imp or a demon that live in the rivers of Japan. :
Kappa Kappa Gamma Wreath Giant Plastic Cup — GreekU
Death Kappa (Godzilla New Age of Monsters) | Idea Wiki | Fandom
JapanAWonderful: Japanese Kappa Spirit A Giant Salamander