Name Meaning
Kyūketsuki (吸血鬼) literally means “blood-sucking demon” and is the Japanese adaptation of the Western vampire mythos.
- Kyū (吸) = to suck
- Ketsu (血) = blood
- Ki (鬼) = demon
Origin
- Introduced through translations and media in the Meiji era and beyond.
- Inspired by European vampire legends but adopted into local horror and pop culture.
- Associated with themes of Westernization and modern fears.
Appearance
- Typically depicted as pale, fanged, and charming—similar to Western vampires.
- May wear Western-style clothing or Japanese attire depending on the setting.
- Sometimes portrayed as ghostly or demonic.
Behavior & Myths
- Feeds on the blood or life energy of the living.
- May be repelled by Buddhist charms, sunlight, or sacred grounds.
- Often featured in anime, literature, and horror fiction with a Japanese twist.
Symbolism
- Represents fear of disease, death, and foreign influence.
- Seen as seductive, mysterious, and dangerous beings.
- Blends old-world superstition with new-world horror.
