Name Meaning
Yama-otoko (山男) literally means “mountain man” and refers to a giant humanoid creature found in Japanese mountain legends.
Origin
- Appears in folk tales from mountainous and forested regions of Japan.
- Often confused with or associated with yōkai such as oni or tengu.
- Might be rooted in sightings of large mountain-dwelling hermits or outcasts.
Appearance
- Described as a giant human or ogre-like man, often covered in hair.
- Sometimes seen wearing tattered clothing or nothing at all.
- Has tremendous physical strength and an imposing presence.
Behavior & Myths
- May help or harm travelers depending on his mood.
- Known for abducting women or stealing food from villages.
- Some tales describe him as lonely and seeking human companionship.
Symbolism
- Represents nature's wild, untamed spirit.
- Often used as a warning to children not to wander into forests alone.
- Embodies fear of the unknown wilderness and isolation.
