
A brief history of the mythology of Japan’s yokai, spirits and demons from Shinto belief.
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History of Yokai
Types of Yokai
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Yokai are a diverse group of supernatural beings, spirits, and monsters in Japanese folklore. They range from mischievous and humorous to terrifying and malevolent, reflecting the complexity and richness of Japanese culture and spirituality. In this article we will discuss the history and types of yokai, as well as their significance in Japanese culture.
History of Yokai

The concept of yokai has ancient roots in Japan, dating back to early indigenous beliefs. Over time, these ideas were influenced by Buddhism, Taoism, and Chinese mythology. Yokai are often seen as embodiments of natural phenomena, unexplained occurrences, or the animism present in Shinto, the indigenous religion of Japan.
– Heian Period (794–1185): In this era, the aristocracy began documenting stories of strange occurrences, omens, and encounters with supernatural beings. Literature like the “Konjaku Monogatari” (Tales of Times Now Past) compiled various legends of yokai.
– Edo Period (1603–1868): The Edo period saw the flourishing of yokai culture. Artists like Toriyama Sekien created famous illustrations of yokai, compiling books that categorized and expanded on these creatures. Kabuki theater and Ukiyo-e woodblock prints also contributed to the popularity of yokai.
– Meiji Period (1868–1912): As Japan modernized, there was an effort to rationalize the supernatural. Yokai took on new forms in literature and entertainment but began to be seen more as cultural icons rather than actual spirits. Many were adapted into children’s tales or became part of popular culture.
– Modern Period (20th century–present): In modern times, yokai have evolved into figures in manga, anime, and movies. Writers like Shigeru Mizuki, who created the famous manga series GeGeGe no Kitaro, have played a huge role in bringing yokai into the global imagination.
Types of Yokai

Yokai come in various forms and behaviors. Some are based on animals, objects, or even concepts, while others are human-like or monstrous. Here is a list of some of the most common types of yokai.
1. Obake (お化け) – These are shapeshifters, usually benign or mischievous spirits that change their form. The most famous is the kitsune (狐), a fox-like spirit that can transform into humans, often into a beautiful woman.
2. Yurei (幽霊) – These are ghosts or spirits of the dead, often bound to the world due to unfinished business or strong emotions. One example is the oiwa (お岩), a tragic figure of betrayal and revenge from kabuki plays.
3. Tengu (天狗) – Bird-like yokai that are often depicted as guardians of the mountains. In earlier periods, tengu were seen as dangerous, but they have come to be seen as strong protectors that are highly skilled in martial arts.
4. Oni (鬼) – These are demons or ogres, usually depicted as large, fearsome creatures with horns. Oni often appear in stories as antagonists, representing forces of destruction or chaos.
5. Tsukumogami (付喪神) – These are spirits that inhabit household objects after 100 years of use, such as broken tools or old furniture. The objects become sentient and may cause trouble or help humans.
6. Kappa (河童) – River creatures that have a dish on their head filled with water. Kappa are mischievous, known for tricking or drowning people, but they can also be helpful if respected.
7. Noppera-bo (のっぺら坊) – These are faceless ghosts that appear human but have no features. They often scare people by revealing their blank face at unexpected moments.
8. Rokurokubi (ろくろ首) – These are human-like yokai, typically women, whose necks stretch incredibly long at night, allowing them to sneak around and cause mischief.
9. Jorogumo (絡新婦) – A spider woman who can lure men to their doom. This yokai is often depicted as beautiful and seductive, but dangerous, much like a spider trapping its prey.
10. Nurarihyon (ぬらりひょん) – Known as the “slippery gourd,” this yokai looks like an old man and is said to sneak into homes, where he acts as though he is the master of the house.
Yokai in Popular Culture
Yokai have continued to play a prominent role in modern media, such as:
– Manga and Anime: Works like GeGeGe no Kitaro, Natsume’s Book of Friends, and Yokai Watch revolve around interactions with these supernatural beings.
– Movies: Hayao Miyazaki’s Spirited Away features a range of yokai-like spirits, drawing from traditional folklore.
– Video Games: Yokai appear in many games, including the Nioh series, Persona games, and Yokai Watch, which is centered on collecting and befriending various yokai.
Yokai are more than just spirits or monsters; they are reflections of societal anxieties, nature, and the inexplicable mysteries of life. Their stories have adapted over time, helping people understand the balance between the mundane and the supernatural in Japanese culture.
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