Explore the legendary Yokai, spirits, and creatures

Betobeto-san
Yokai

Betobeto-san (べとべとさん)

An invisible spirit from Japanese folklore known to follow travelers at night, making eerie footstep sounds. Though unseen, it causes unease with its audible presence. To dispel it, one must politely say, “Please, go ahead, Betobeto-san.”

Bake-kujira
Yokai

Bake-kujira (化鯨)

A ghostly whale yokai said to appear off the coast of western Japan. Surrounded by strange birds and fish, it brings misfortune and plagues to those who witness it. Bake-kujira is believed to be the spirit of a whale killed unjustly.

Bakeneko
Animal Spirit

Bakeneko (化け猫)

A supernatural cat yokai known for its ability to shape-shift, speak human languages, and curse households. Bakeneko are born when cats live a long life or are mistreated, turning into vengeful and magical beings.

Bakezōri
Yokai

Bakezōri (化け草履)

A lively spirit formed from an old straw sandal, the Bakezōri comes to life when neglected. It runs about the house at night chanting and causing playful mischief.

Baku
Yokai

Baku (獏)

A mystical creature that feeds on nightmares, the Baku is often invoked by children to protect their dreams. It has a composite form and brings good fortune.

Basan
Yokai

Basan (バサン)

A mythical chicken-like beast that breathes ghostly fire and appears silently in the mountains of Ehime Prefecture, startling those who spot it.

Binbōgami
Yokai

Binbōgami (貧乏神)

A malevolent spirit of poverty that brings misfortune and financial ruin to households it inhabits.

Biwa-bokuboku
Yokai

Biwa-bokuboku (琵琶牧々)

A haunted biwa (Japanese lute) that takes on a ghostly form, often appearing when neglected or unused.

Bunbuku Chagama
Yokai

Bunbuku Chagama (分福茶釜)

A beloved tale of a magical tanuki who disguises itself as a teakettle to help a kind man prosper.

Buruburu
Yokai

Buruburu (ぶるぶる)

A trembling spirit known to instill an intense sensation of fear or chills, especially when people enter haunted or cursed places.

Byakko
Dragon

Byakko (白虎)

One of the Four Symbols of Chinese and Japanese mythology, Byakko is the White Tiger of the West, representing metal, autumn, and protection.