Yokai is a catchall Japanese word for ghosts, demons, monsters, shapeshifters, tricksters, and other kinds of supernatural beings and mysterious phenomena. Yokai interact with the human world and spark common notions of frightful things.

Although sometimes scary, these frightening beings are often portrayed as playful, relatable, and even cute creatures, meaning the experience of fear can also be amusing and fun.

Explore all kinds of yokai and the ways that they became pop-culture sensations in Japan!