Hibagon

The Hibagon, seen here as large white furred ape-like creature walking through a oriental mountain scene in autumn.

The Hibagon is a Bigfoot-like cryptid from Japanese folklore. Cryptozoologists often describe it as the Japanese version of the Tibetan Yeti. The first reports of the creature in the 1970s came from the slopes of Mount Hiba around Saijo and Hiwa in the Hiba District and Shobara in the Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. Local folklore claims … Read more

Kaijin

A Kaijin appears as a human with strange skin and appearance against a background of cherry blossom and mountains

Kaijin is a word in the Japanese language that means a strange, mysterious, legendary, or mythical humanoid (human-like) creature. Kaijins are human-like beings considered strange or mysterious because they have unusual, fantastical, or supernatural characteristics, abilities, or powers that make them different from regular humans. The popular terms in modern-day English language usage that closely … Read more

Merman

A merman with long hair and a fish tail is seen leaping under a huge wave.

Mermen are sea spirits and, physically at least, the male equivalent of mermaids. Collectively the two creatures are often called Merfolk. A Merman is said to have a top half that is similar to a male human and a bottom half that is similar to the tail of a fish. The Merman legend dates back … Read more

Qilin

A Qilin galloping through the forest with its red mane and two horns.

The Qilin is a popular mythical creature originating from China. In English-speaking countries, it is known as the Chinese Unicorn. It is thought to be the living incarnation of fire, water, earth, wood, and metal. There have also been reported sightings in recent times, which are the subject of much debate. Description “Qilin” translates into … Read more

Tsuchinoko

Tsuchinoko seen with its snake appearance but wider in the middle than at the head or tail.

The Tsuchinoko is well-established in Japanese mythology. It is thought to inhabit the forests and mountains of Shikoku, Honshu, and Kyushu islands, along with parts of the Korean peninsula. This snake-like creature is thought to be relatively harmless and has inspired yearly hunts throughout Japan. Description “Tsuchinoko” literally translates to “hammer’s spawn.” The Tsuchinoko is … Read more

Akkorokamui

The Akkorokamui seen here as a pale woman with tentacles standing in a raging sea

The Akkorokamui is a sea monster from Ainu folklore. The Ainu regard it as a water spirit or deity. The Ainu are an ethnic group native to the northern islands of the Japanese archipelago, including the island of Hokkaido. The Akkorokamui allegedly lives in Uchiura Bay (Funka Bay), southeast of the island of Hokkaido. However, … Read more