Description

Strange Japanese Yokai: A Guide to Weird and Wonderful Monsters, Demons and Spirits by Kenji Murakami, and translated by Zack Davisson

Paperback – Tuttle – May 2023 – 191 pages

Strange Japanese Yokai assembles an extraordinary collection of mysterious creatures in every possible shape and size, each with their own unique back story. Some are well-known, others obscure. The one thing they share in common is that they are creepy and weird!

The 122 different Yokai described in this book include:

• The Kappa: A dangerous creature who lives in lakes and rivers and attacks passers-by
• The Nurarihyon: A mysterious Yokai with a huge head who steals food, tobacco and alcohol
• The Yadokai: A mischievous former monk who wanders at night vandalizing and being a pest
• The Ohaguru:A scary Yokai with black teeth who looks like a beautiful woman from afar until she gets closer, smiles, and reveals herself
• And over 100 more!

Yokai expert Kenji Murakami identifies each Yokai, explains the history, where they commonly appear, and their strange powers. The book is illustrated with hundreds of full-color drawings showcasing the fascinating features of these strange creatures. Every monster here, no matter how disgusting, is part of the rich cultural legacy of Japan.