The term is hard to define in English since the term yōkai does not have an exact translation in English, but yōkai are basically supernatural monsters, spirits, and demons found in Japanese folklore. Their morality varies as they can be malevolent, mischievous, and sometimes even benevolent. Yōkai come in a wide variety of forms. While some look similar to humans, others bear a resemblance to animals, plants, or objects. Types of yōkai can consist of a single individual such as the Yamata no Orochi, a giant serpent with eight heads and eight tails, or multiple individuals. If that's not clear, think about how it parallels Greek mythology: there was only ever one Hydra, but there were multiple satyrs.
The powers they have vary greatly, but yōkai usually have supernatural abilities of some kind. For example, kitsune, fox spirits, are well known for being able to shape shift into humans. Yōkai are often said to cause natural disasters and misfortune. However, they are also said to help people at times. Kappas, reptilian humanoids that live in bodies of water, are an excellent example as they are said to help people who befriend them with tasks such as helping to irrigate fields.
It is worth noting that the portrayal of yōkai has changed over time. Nowadays, yōkai are more often portrayed in a less terrifying light and are presented more like fictional characters than supernatural beings people actually believe in, although rituals honoring yōkai still take place. Today, yōkai are frequently depicted in various media ranging from anime to video games.
In this guide, I will provide information about various kinds of yōkai such as their appearances, abilities, habitats and so on. I will also provide examples from various media along with pictures.
Feel free to comment your requests for yōkai you want me to cover.
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The Ultimate Yōkai Guide
Non-FictionThis guide contains information about yōkai from Japanese folklore along with examples from various media.
