Experts solve mystery of ancient ‘mummified dragon’ discovered by Japanese shogun

Experts solve mystery of ancient ‘mummified dragon’ discovered by Japanese shogun

The mummified creature dates back to the 11th century

Legend states that the "dragon" was found by Yoshinori Ashikaga, a 15th-century shogun, in 1429. (Shosoin Treasure House via Pen News)

Researchers used modern technology, including x-ray analysis, to determine the skeleton's species. (Shosoin Treasure House via Pen News)

Researchers found the marten dated back to the 11th or 12th centuries. (Shosoin Treasure House via Pen News)

The skeleton was found at the Todai-ji temple in Nara in 1429. (Getty Images)

The mummified Japanese marten was mistaken for a dragon due to its missing forelegs. (Shosoin Treasure House via Pen News)