Yōkai (folklore)

Yōkai are supernatural creatures from Japanese folklore, encompassing a wide range of spirits, monsters, and demons with diverse forms and characteristics. They often embody natural phenomena, emotions, or societal fears, and can be mischievous, benign, or malevolent. Yōkai are integral to Japanese cultural stories and art, reflecting historical beliefs, moral lessons, and the unknown. While some resemble humans or animals, others have fantastical or eerie appearances. Their stories have evolved over centuries, maintaining a prominent role in Japanese literature, festivals, and popular media.