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2 days ago · Published Oct 31, 2024. The presence of Akuma, often depicted as malevolent spirits or demons, has permeated Japanese folklore and culture for centuries. Their evolution from ancient tales to modern representations reveals much about cultural continuity and adaptation. Akuma’s influence is evident in religious texts, art, literature, and ...
- Connection to The Everyday
- Powerful Spirits
- Fluid Histories
Defining the supernatural is a difficult task — reflecting our contested mortal and moral understandings. Japan has a compelling history of bringing the mystical to life — from the evocative woodcut prints of scholar, poet and artist Toriyama Sekien (1712–88), to the powerful storytelling of Hayao Miyazaki (of Spirited Away animated film fame) and ...
The Japan supernatural exhibition begins from the Edo Period(1603–1868) and spans three centuries to contemporary manifestations. Stories highlighting the enduring power of the supernatural to understand the limits and potential of humanity are included. Concepts such as yōkai — which in English translates roughly to monsters, goblins, demons and s...
The haunting presence of the spectral across the centuries creates and curates a different sense of time throughout this exhibition. The work of Seiken can be found in director Isao Takahata’s woodblocks for the 1994 Studio Ghibli animation Pom Pok. And the exhibition includes key masters of the Ukiyo-e Period from the 17th to 19th century, such as...
- Larissa Hjorth
Oct 14, 2024 · In Japanese folklore, the concept of evil is multifaceted and often intertwined with the cultural and spiritual beliefs that have shaped the nation over centuries. The portrayal of demons, particularly the Oni, serves as a lens through which we can examine these ideas.
- Tengu. Tengu is a legendary yokai that you’d likely have come across whilst exploring Japan. This popular folklore creature is often printed on arts and crafts and is featured in many cultural performances.
- Oni. Arguably one of the most famous yokai in Japan, the Oni is an ogre who is strong, fearsome, and mischievous. They are known to bring bad luck and disaster with them wherever they go.
- Umi-bozu. This sea creature is usually described as having a huge dark head that just appears out of the water. It’s said that when it appears, it will break through any boat that is nearby and kill its passengers.
- Yurei. Yurei are the most typical-looking ghost creatures within the yokai category. They are often depicted as floating white corpses, dressed in a draping kimono, with long black hair.
An akuma (悪魔) is an evil spirit in Japanese folklore, [1] [2] sometimes described in English-language sources as a devil or demon. [2] [3] An alternative name for the akuma is ma (ま). [4] Akuma is the name assigned to Satan in Japanese Christianity, and the Mara in Japanese Buddhism.
Sep 28, 2022 · Did you know that Japan is populated by supernatural creatures, also known as yokai? Among them, the Japanese oni is a very popular demon in Japanese folklore. But, what is hidden behind this evil spirit?
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Throughout history, Japanese demons known as Oni have held significant cultural and mythological importance in Japan. These legendary creatures have deep roots in ancient beliefs and folklore, representing forces of punishment and guardianship.
