Tengu Yokai: The Mysterious Creatures of Japanese Folklore (2024)

In Japan, there are several supernatural creatures known as yokai. While some of these monsters can be found in other cultures and traditions, the yokai of Japan have their own unique characteristics and histories. These creatures are often frightening or ugly in appearance and range from ghostly spirits to mischievous animals. They inhabit different parts of the country with each one having its own story. Some are believed to bring bad luck while others are seen as helpful spirits with good intentions. In this article, we take an in-depth look at one of the most famous yokai: the Tengu.

What are Tengu?

Tengu are a type of supernatural creature (yokai) found in Japan. They are often depicted as having the head and wings of a bird, an old man’s wrinkled face, and a long nose. In addition to these physical characteristics, tengu are also sometimes depicted with a priestly staff called a shakujō. Over time, the tengu have become a symbol for several different things. They were associated with being harbingers of war and are often seen as fierce fighters. Over time, this connotation has softened. Although still extremely dangerous to run into, they are viewed as being protectors of the forests and mountains. Tengu are considered overly prideful and arrogant creatures. They are also believed to have magical powers.

Originally, stories in the 13th century had them oppose Buddhism and it was said tengu would abduct priests and leave them stranded in remote locations. However, by the 18th century, their stories had shifted to them being fierce protectors of certain forests. Their history has seen them transform from demons to prideful demi-gods.

Tengu Appearance and Characteristics

A tengu is a mysterious supernatural creature with a polarized reputation. They are often depicted as monsters in Japanese folklore. Tengu masks, occasionally seen at Japanese festivals, demonstrate what most people think of when they hear tengu. Their masks are red with an angry wrinkled expression and a very prominent and long nose. In folklore, the tengu can have many slight variations including a more bird-esque head complete with feathers and a sharp beak.

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In general, there are two main types of tengu: the greater tengu called daitengu and the lesser tengu called kotengu, sometimes called karasutengu (crow tengu). Tengu are often described as having white or black hair and dark blackish feathers. Most depictions show tengu with long fingers and sharp curved claws. The daitengu are more human in appearance, while the lesser kotengu are much more bird-like.

Origins of the Tengu Yokai

The word tengu uses the same characters as the Chinese tiangou, fierce demon dog resembling a shooting star. It’s not clear how the Chinese tiangou evolved into the Japanese tengu, but historians do believe they are linked.

One of the first times tengu are mentioned in a historical text is in the Nihon Shoki from 720 AD. The text is an account from a Buddhist priest describing a shooting star that looks like a heavenly dog that represents a sign of a coming military conflict.

The Nihon Shoki and tiangou may explain the origin of the name, but some historians believe the Hindu eagle deity Garuda inspired the physical image of the tengu. In Buddhist scripture, garuda are described as humanoids with bird-like features, like wings and beaks. This is similar to early kotengu descriptions.

Where do Tengu live?

The tengu are often depicted as living high up in the mountains. They also sometimes inhabit the tops of tall trees. Tengu are said to live in remote areas and are rarely seen by humans. They tend to keep to themselves and are rarely worried about people intruding on their territory. There are a few different legends about how the tengu came to live in the mountains. One legend says that the tengu are guardians who protect the mountains from harm. Thus, they live in remote areas so that they can keep watch over the mountains without being bothered by humans.

Yokai Powers of the Tengu

The tengu are often depicted as having magical powers. They are said to be skilled in the art of shapeshifting and early legends had them disguise themselves as priests. Sometimes tengu carry around a magical fan made of feathers called a hauchiwa. This fan allows them to create great gusts of wind. In some folktales, the breeze they create can grow or shrink a person’s nose.

Many stories show tengu having the ability to manipulate people. They are said to be able to control a person’s mind and can make people see or hear things that aren’t happening. Normally these stories were about tricking Buddhist priests, either by showing them false images of Buhdda or by seducing them with women. Tengu can also fly and are known for abducting priests and leaving them atop tall trees.

The Importance of the Tengu Mask

One of the most recognizable traditional Japanese masks is that of the tengu. These masks can sometimes be purchased at festivals (matsuri) for fun. Well-made wooden versions are sometimes hung up as decorations. The masks have made appearances in many pop culture books and shows, such as in the very successful Kimetsu no Yaiba (Demon Slayer) manga and anime. You may have even seen the tengu mask before as it has been enshrined in Emoji-form since 2015. 👺 Although it’s listed in English as the goblin emoji.

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Conclusion

The tengu is a mysterious creature that dates back centuries in Japanese folklore. They are often depicted as fierce warriors who are skilled in the magical arts. Despite their scary reputation, the tengu’s reputation has evolved from evil pranksters to hermit protectors. The tengu have become a symbol of prideful arrogance. Today, people enjoy wearing tengu masks and their impact on Japanese folklore and culture has not been lost.

Tengu Yokai: The Mysterious Creatures of Japanese Folklore (2024)
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