Name Meaning
Yama-inu (山犬) means "mountain dog" in Japanese and refers to a mysterious, wolf-like yokai said to dwell in remote forested regions.
Origin
- Appears in legends from mountainous areas such as Kyūshū and Honshū.
- Linked to ancient fears of wolves and wild dogs.
- Sometimes considered a guardian spirit, other times a dangerous predator.
Appearance
- Looks like a large dog or wolf with glowing eyes.
- Sometimes appears as a spectral figure or shadowy beast.
- May travel alone or in packs.
Behavior & Myths
- Can protect travelers or devour them, depending on its mood.
- Sometimes mistaken for actual wolves or divine messengers.
- Believed to follow people silently and test their bravery.
Symbolism
- Embodies fear of wild nature and the unknown.
- Sometimes honored in mountain shrines as a protector deity.
- Represents the untamed spirit of the mountains.
