Name Meaning
Guhin (狗賓) is a regional term for a tengu with dog-like traits. The name literally translates to "dog guest" or "dog spirit."
- Gu (狗) = dog
- Hin (賓) = guest or visitor
Origin
- Associated with mountain and forest regions, especially in western Japan.
- Considered a variant of the more bird-like tengu, with a more grounded and earthy persona.
- Some legends treat guhin as a lesser form of tengu, others as a fearsome counterpart.
Appearance
- Typically depicted with canine features such as a dog’s face, ears, or fur.
- Often wears the robes and hat of a yamabushi (mountain ascetic monk).
- Can be small and sneaky or large and fearsome depending on the region.
Behavior & Myths
- Known to cause illness, stir up storms, or possess people.
- Sometimes revered as guardians of the mountains, punishing disrespectful intruders.
- In some areas, guhin were blamed for mysterious disappearances or eerie howling at night.
Symbolism
- Embodies the duality of nature spirits: benevolent protectors or wrathful avengers.
- Represents wild mountain energy and the dangers of arrogance or spiritual imbalance.
- Seen as spiritual challengers to those who stray from righteous paths.
