the illustrated database of Japanese folklore

Welcome to Yokai.com, the illustrated database of Japanese folklore.

This is an illustrated encyclopedia featuring ghosts, monsters, and legendary figures from Japan. All of the entries on this site are based on Japanese sources including books, paintings, scrolls, prints, and oral tradition.

Open the alphabetical list of yōkai by clicking on the hamburger menu ( ) in the top left corner, try for a random yōkai, or view a list of categories in the Yōkai Finder.

Yokai.com is presented ad-free, pop-up free, and paywall free. Every entry is researched, translated, illustrated, and then posted free for everyone in the world to enjoy, all thanks to support from readers. If you enjoy this site, please consider becoming a yokai patron at patreon.com/theyokaiguy!

Online Shop

We have an online shop where you can order art prints, postcards, books, and more. DRM-free ebooks can be purchased from Amazon’s Kindle store. Shipping is done through Japan Post, and is limited to countries and methods currently allowed by Japan Post.

Alphabetical list of yōkai