Kaiju is a Japanese term that translates to "strange beast." It refers to giant monsters, often depicted in films, television shows, and literature. These creatures typically emerge from the sea or other environments, causing destruction in urban areas. The most famous kaiju include Godzilla and King Kong, which have become cultural icons. Kaiju stories often explore themes of nature versus humanity, showcasing the impact of human actions on the environment. The genre gained popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly with the release of Godzilla in 1954. Today, kaiju continue to inspire various media, including video games and comic books.