Name Meaning
Kawa-zaru (川猿) literally means "river monkey." Despite the name, this yokai is more similar in appearance and behavior to a weak, nervous kappa.
Origin
- Appears in obscure folk stories from remote rural areas of Japan.
- Believed to be a lesser cousin of the kappa, lacking strength and bravery.
Appearance
- Small, simian form with scruffy fur and a vaguely kappa-like face.
- Often described as emitting a terrible stench.
- Shy and timid in nature, always ready to flee.
Behavior & Myths
- Unlike the aggressive kappa, the kawa-zaru avoids conflict and hides from people.
- Legends say it can sometimes be bribed with fish or cucumbers to leave an area.
- Feared more for its smell than its actions.
Symbolism
- Represents cowardice, nuisance, and weakness in yokai form.
- Sometimes seen as a parody of more powerful river spirits.
