October brings with it the season of Halloween—a time when spooky creatures and supernatural tales captivate our imaginations. But in the world of anime, supernatural beings like yōkai play a much deeper and enduring role, representing Japan’s rich folklore all year round. Whether you’re an anime enthusiast or simply someone curious about these mysterious creatures, learning about yōkai can offer fascinating insights into how anime weaves folklore into modern storytelling. Let’s dive into the enchanting world of yōkai, uncovering their origins, forms, and significance in both traditional and modern culture.

Definition of Yōkai

Yōkai (妖怪) are supernatural creatures, spirits, and entities found in Japanese folklore, often representing various natural forces, emotions, or unexplained phenomena. The word “yōkai” combines 妖 (yō), meaning “bewitching, mysterious, or attractive,” and 怪 (kai), meaning “suspicious or strange.”

Yōkai can take many forms, ranging from animal-like creatures, human-like figures, shapeshifters, and even inanimate objects that have gained life. These beings are not inherently evil, although some can be dangerous or malevolent, while others are mischievous, helpful, or neutral.

The fluid nature of their morality and the variety of forms they take make yōkai a significant aspect of Japan’s spiritual and cultural heritage. They are closely associated with animism and the belief that the world is inhabited by spirits or forces, influencing everything from weather to personal fortunes.

History of Yōkai

The origins of yōkai are deeply rooted in animistic traditions and Shinto beliefs, where natural elements like rivers, mountains, trees, and even the wind were believed to house spirits. Early Japanese culture saw the presence of spirits, both good and bad, in all things. This belief was influenced by the idea that the natural world and human existence are interconnected, giving rise to beings or phenomena that defy explanation. Early texts like the Nihon Shoki and Kojiki (dating back to the 8th century) also contain references to spirits and supernatural occurrences that resemble yōkai.

Medieval Period (12th-17th Century)

As Japan entered the medieval period, belief in yōkai began to merge with Buddhist and Taoist philosophies introduced from China. This period saw the emergence of more defined yōkai as both protectors and tormentors of humans, influenced by Buddhist tales of karma and spiritual retribution. During this time, famous yōkai such as Oni (demons) and Tengu (bird-like spirits) became prominent figures.

Yōkai also became linked with superstition. Many were used as cautionary tales for bad behaviour or to explain natural disasters, diseases, or mysterious disappearances. Rural communities often told stories of yōkai to explain unfamiliar natural phenomena like storms, floods, or eerie sounds at night.

Edo Period (17th-19th Century)

he Edo period (1603-1867) marked a significant moment in the development of yōkai culture, due to advances in woodblock printing and the rise of urbanisation. Artists like Toriyama Sekien began publishing encyclopaedias of yōkai, categorising and giving visual form to the creatures for the first time. His works, such as the Gazu Hyakki Yagyō (Illustrated Night Parade of a Hundred Demons), popularised yōkai across Japan, making them widely known beyond oral tradition.

The Edo period also saw the rise of kabuki theatre, in which yōkai were often featured in plays. Folktales like the story of the Yuki-onna (Snow Woman) or the Kappa (water-dwelling creature) gained further notoriety, embedding these figures into popular culture.

Modern Era (19th Century – Present)

In the Meiji era (1868-1912), as Japan embraced Western science and technology, belief in yōkai was somewhat sidelined in favour of rational explanations. However, they continued to thrive in the realms of literature, art, and theatre. Over time, yōkai became symbols of nostalgia and cultural heritage.In the 20th century, with the rise of manga and anime, yōkai saw a massive resurgence in popular culture. Figures like Shigeru Mizuki, creator of GeGeGe no Kitarō, reintroduced yōkai to new generations through his manga and anime. This period marked the beginning of yōkai being used not only as mythological figures but also as symbols for societal issues or as characters in their own right.

Yōkai or  Youka

Both “Yōkai” and “Youkai” are romanised versions of the Japanese word 妖怪.

• Yōkai: This version uses the macron (ō) to indicate a long “o” sound. This is generally considered the more accurate romanization, as it reflects the pronunciation more closely.
• Youkai: This version uses “ou” to represent the long “o” sound. This was a common romanization method in the past, but it’s less precise and can sometimes lead to confusion (as “you” might be pronounced as in “youth”).

Classifications of Yōkai

Yōkai are incredibly diverse and can be classified in several ways depending on their form, nature, or origin. Below are some common classifications:

1. By Appearance

• Human-like Yōkai: These resemble humans but possess supernatural traits or abilities. Examples include the Rokurokubi (humans with elongated necks) or the Onryō (vengeful spirits).
• Animal-like Yōkai: Often shapeshifters, these yōkai take the form of animals like foxes, raccoons, or birds. Famous examples include Kitsune (fox spirits) and Tanuki (raccoon dogs).
• Object-based Yōkai (Tsukumogami): Inanimate objects that come to life after 100 years of existence. Examples include Kasa-obake (haunted umbrellas) and Chōchin-obake (haunted lanterns).
• Hybrid Yōkai: Creatures that are a combination of humans, animals, or other forms. Examples include Nue, a chimera-like creature with the face of a monkey, the body of a tiger, and the tail of a snake.

2. By Behaviour

• Malevolent Yōkai: These yōkai are often harmful to humans, causing illness, misfortune, or even death. Examples include Oni (demons) and Jorōgumo (a spider-woman).
• Benevolent Yōkai: Some yōkai are protective or helpful. For example, Zashiki-warashi are childlike spirits that bring good fortune to households.
• Mischievous Yōkai: Many yōkai fall into this category, where they enjoy playing tricks on humans without causing serious harm. The Tanuki and Tengu are good examples.

3. By Element

• Water Yōkai: Associated with rivers, lakes, or the sea. Kappa are amphibious creatures that dwell in rivers, and Umibōzu are sea-dwelling yōkai.
• Mountain Yōkai: Spirits that reside in mountainous regions, such as Tengu, who are guardians of the forests and mountains.
• Spirit Yōkai: Ghostly beings, such as Yurei (ghosts) and Onryō (vengeful spirits), often linked to the souls of the deceased.

4. By Origin

• Shinto Yōkai: Spirits directly linked to the Shinto belief system, often seen as Kami (gods or deities). For example, Kitsune can act as messengers for the deity Inari.
• Buddhist Yōkai: Yōkai tied to Buddhist teachings, such as Gaki (hungry ghosts), who represent souls suffering in the afterlife due to their earthly greed or desires.
• Folkloric Yōkai: Figures emerging from regional folk tales and stories passed down through generations, like the Yuki-onna (Snow Woman).

Examples of Yōkai in Anime and Manga:

For other anime terminology, check out the anime dictionary. Below is a list of some Yōkai characters in anime and manga:

Tomoe [Kamisama Kiss (Kamisama Hajimemashita)]

• Type of Yōkai: Kitsune (Fox Spirit)

Tomoe is a powerful fox familiar who serves as the protagonist’s protector. His character reflects the fox spirit’s association with shape-shifting and mischievousness, but he also has a complex, protective nature.

Hanako-kun (Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun)

• Type of Yōkai: Onryō (Ghost)

Hanako-kun is the ghost of a young boy who haunts the girls’ bathroom in an old school. He helps students with their supernatural problems while keeping his own past a mystery. His playful yet tragic character adds depth to the series.

Shion, Benimaru, Shuna, and Soei (That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime)

• Type of Yōkai: Kijin

The Kijin are a powerful group of oni in “That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime,” evolved from ogres who were named by Rimuru Tempest. This group consists of Shion, the loyal secretary and powerful warrior; Benimaru, the skilled commander and master of flames; Hakuro, the wise swordsman and mentor; Shuna, the compassionate magic user and crafter; and Soei, the stealthy spymaster and assassin. Each possesses unique skills and abilities, making them invaluable members of Rimuru’s Jura Tempest Federation. They are fiercely loyal to Rimuru, serving as his trusted advisors and protectors, and play crucial roles in the development and defense of Tempest.

Miia (Monster Musume)

• Type of Yōkai: Lamia

As a lamia, she has the upper body of a human woman and the lower body of a snake. She’s the first monster girl to move in with Kimihito Kurusu as part of the Interspecies Cultural Exchange program. Her snake traits give her enhanced senses, a venomous bite (though she has control over it), and impressive strength and flexibility.

Totoro (My Neighbor Totoro)

• Type of Yōkai: Yōkai (Forest Spirit)

Totoro is a large, gentle forest spirit who befriends two young sisters, Satsuki and Mei, as they explore the natural world around their rural home. Though not based on a specific traditional yōkai, Totoro embodies the protective, benevolent essence of nature spirits. His whimsical and comforting presence brings magic to the girls’ lives, representing the bond between humans and nature.

Who are your favourite Yōkai?

Yōkai continues to influence modern society, transcending their mythological roots to become beloved figures in anime, manga, and popular culture. Their enduring appeal speaks to humanity’s fascination with the unknown and the spiritual connection between nature and the supernatural. As yōkai capture the imagination of each new generation, their relevance remains timeless. Which yōkai resonates with you? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s explore these supernatural beings together!