Welcome to the Yokai Wiki, the ultimate guide to the supernatural creatures of Japanese folklore.
The Chinese Influence on Japanese Yokai
The concept of Yokai (妖怪) in Japan is deeply rooted in Chinese mythology and culture. The term itself is derived from the Chinese word Yaoguai (妖怪), which refers to strange, supernatural beings or demons.
During the Heian period (794–1185)—parallel to China’s late Tang (618–907) and Song (960–1279) Dynasties—Japan absorbed vast amounts of Chinese culture, including Buddhism, Taoism, and folklore. Many famous Japanese Yokai have direct counterparts or ancestors in Chinese legends. For instance, the Kitsune (nine-tailed fox) parallels the Chinese Huli Jing, and the Tengu evolved from the Chinese Tiangou.
While Japanese folklore evolved to have its own unique flavor—often more animistic and tied to the Shinto belief that spirits reside in all things—the foundational classification and many specific creatures trace their lineage back to the rich tapestry of Chinese mythology.
Explore our collection to discover the stories, meanings, and origins of these mysterious beings.