Japanese demons: bright representatives of yokai and the history of the term

From animated musical instruments to cannibal cats.

Demons are not only evil horned monsters from hell, this word can be used to refer to any supernatural beings that occupy an inferior position compared to the gods. There are many such creatures in Japanese mythology, and in each era they were called differently. Let's see how the idea of the Japanese about the supernatural has changed. . ‌‌ ‌‌‌ ‌‌‌‌ ‌‌‌‌‌ ‌‌‌‌

The evolution of demonic names in Japanese mythology

Yokai is a collective image for all supernatural beings in Japanese demonology. This concept includes spirits, demons, werewolves and other mystical creatures. If we consider the hieroglyphs that make up the word, then they can be translated as “magic, wonderful, mysterious” and “mystery, strange, suspicious, phantom”.

Youkai cannot be called "bad" or "good": these creatures can not only thirst for blood and harm people, but also do good and bring wealth or good luck. They also look different. For example, some look like physically deformed people, others have borrowed body parts from animals, and others are completely angry phenomena of nature.

Japanese yokai folklore is a rich tradition of supernatural creatures and spirits that have been part of Japanese culture for centuries. These mythological beings are often depicted as mischievous or malevolent entities that can cause harm to humans. The word "yokai" literally means "bewitching apparition," and they range from shape-shifting animals to vengeful ghosts. Some of the most well-known yokai include the kappa, a water spirit that resembles a turtle with a beak, and the oni, a demon-like creature with horns and a fierce demeanor. Yokai stories have been passed down through oral tradition, and many have been adapted into popular media such as anime and manga. Today, yokai continue to fascinate and intrigue people both in Japan and around the world.

Kitsune is a fox yōkai, a creature of Japanese folklore, known for their mysterious and mischievous nature. They are believed to possess magical powers like shapeshifting, illusion, possession, and the ability to control fire. Kitsune are often depicted as tricksters, playing pranks on humans for their own amusement. They are also believed to be messengers of Inari, the Shinto deity of fertility, agriculture, and foxes. The number of tails on a Kitsune determines their age, wisdom, and power. The most powerful Kitsune can have up to nine tails. In Japanese mythology, Kitsune are both feared and revered, and their presence always elicits a sense of awe and mystery.