Evil Spirits and Monsters in Japan

What is a Yōkai?

Yōkai, also known as evil spirits and monsters in Japanese folklore, are a diverse class of supernatural creatures, including demons, spirits, and monsters. The term "Yōkai" is derived from two kanji characters: one meaning "bewitching, attractive, or calamity," and the other meaning "specter, apparition, mystery, or suspicious."

Yōkai come in a variety of forms, ranging from malevolent beings to mischievous creatures, with some even bringing good fortune to those they encounter. These beings often possess animal features, such as the mujina, which resembles a badger. Others appear mostly human, while some look like inanimate objects or have no discernible shape at all. Yōkai are often associated with spiritual or supernatural powers, with shapeshifting being one of their most common abilities.

Most Famous Yōkai

Tengu

Tengu are mystical creatures that reside deep in the mountains, often depicted with a reddish face and an unusually long nose. Dressed like mountain priests, they carry a long, white staff, a sword, and a fan.

Inugami: The Dog God

The Inugami is an invisible and malevolent spirit that originates from legends in the Shikoku, Chugoku, and Kyushu regions. Typically, it is believed to be the spirit of a dog or fox. Families haunted by the Inugami are often shunned by the community.

Neko-mata: The Cat with Two Tails

In ancient times, cats were feared because it was believed that killing one would bring a curse. As cats aged, it was believed that some grew two tails and transformed into Neko-mata, dangerous creatures that would attack people.

Yamanba: The Old Mountain Hag

Yamanba is an ancient woman who resides deep in the mountains, far from villages. Legends say that she preys on travelers, often eating those who wander too far into her territory.

Oni: The Ogre

The Oni is a fearsome monster often symbolizing evil. Popularized through the influence of Buddhism, red and blue ogres were depicted in hellish imagery. Oni are typically described as having horns, bushy hair, tusks, and tiger-skin shorts, wielding large metal clubs.

Kappa: Water Spirits

Kappa are mischievous water spirits often depicted as childlike beings with a sharp beak, a dish of water on their heads, and a shell on their backs. They swim with webbed hands and feet, pulling humans and animals into the water to drink their blood. Kappa are known for their love of sumo wrestling and cucumbers.

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