Onikuma (鬼熊)

Name Meaning

Onikuma (鬼熊) means "demon bear" in Japanese, describing a legendary bear with supernatural strength and terrifying behavior.

• Oni (鬼) = Demon
• Kuma (熊) = Bear

Origin

• Found in the folklore of mountainous regions in Japan.
• Feared for preying on livestock and sometimes even humans.
• Linked to bears that have lived a long time and become yokai.

Appearance

• A massive bear that walks upright like a human.
• Glowing eyes and immense strength.
• May carry its prey in its arms or over its shoulder.

Behavior & Myths

• Appears at night to raid villages and barns for livestock.
• Some tales say it can vanish into mist or run faster than any horse.
• Considered nearly impossible to kill by normal means.

Symbolism

• Embodies primal wilderness and fear of untamed nature.
• Represents strength and wild intelligence.
• Sometimes seen as a test of courage for hunters or warriors.