Chinese Yokai

In the rich tapestry of Eastern folklore, the introduction of Chinese Yokai, known as Yaoguai(妖怪), weaves a distinct narrative when compared to their Japanese counterparts, the Yokai. While sharing a semblance in their supernatural essence, these entities diverge in several intriguing facets.
Linguistically, the disparity lies in the terms themselves: “Yokai” denotes an enigmatic apparition in Japan, while “Yaoguai” embodies an enticing demon in China.
Visually, the contrast is stark; Japanese Yokai exhibit whimsical, often cartoonish forms, while Chinese Yaoguai adopt a more somber, realistic guise and are often associated with human possession. Culturally, Yokai are entrenched in Japanese society, familiar to many, while Yaoguai’s presence remains less widespread beyond China’s borders.
Moreover, their roles diverge; Yokai lean towards mischievousness but benign intent, even offering protection, whereas Yaoguai are perceived as malevolent, posing threats to human safety.
Within these distinctions lies a tapestry of supernatural lore, highlighting the nuanced variations between these captivating entities in their respective cultural landscapes.

The Dragon’s Pearl

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In Jingxiang, there is a temple nestled close to mountains and water, where a dragon resides. This dragon often stirs up storms, damaging trees. Within the temple, there is an old man named Zhang who strikes the bell; he is a sorcerer, unknown to the monks. Zhang detests the havoc caused by this dragon and desires to capture and kill it, secretly performing magic.

The dragon, aware of this, transforms into a human and secretly informs one of the monks, saying, ‘I am a dragon, living in these waters for many years. 

Love Story of the Flying Head Demon Clan

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Love Story of the Flying Head Demon Clan, a story recorded in

What is a Flying Head Demon?

The Flying Head Demon, known as 飛頭蠻/飛頭䝤 in Chinese and Hitouban in Japanese, originates from Gan Bao(干宝)’s records in the Jin Dynasty’s ‘In Search of the Supernatural(《搜神记》).‘

This mythical creature, also called ‘辘轳首’ (rokurokubi), appears normal during the day but transforms at night. Its neck extends longer than a giraffe’s, and the head detaches, flying out the window while the body remains seemingly asleep. 

Illustration for 《辛十四娘》in《聊齋誌異》

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The story tells of Xin Shisiniang(辛十四娘), a beautiful woman in red who is a kind-hearted fox spirit, aspires to help others and become an immortal.

Although she is a fox spirit, she has a kind heart. She lives with her fox father and 18 sisters in a dilapidated temple. She is named Shishier because she is the 14th of 19 sisters.

Loach/Li-Yu/鱧魚

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Loach(鱧魚), a creature in the Classic of Mountains and Seas, that’ll surprise you with its unique abilities. It can climb trees, make sheep-like sounds, and is found in a mountain rich with gold.

Seventy li to the west is a mountain called Ying. On the mountain grow many locust trees and catalpa trees. To the north of the mountain there is much iron, and to the south there is much red gold.

 

The Scholar in A Goose Cage

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In the mystical Eastern Jin Dynasty, a chance encounter with a footsore scholar leads Xu Yan into a bizarre realm of wonders. As gratitude, the scholar hosts a feast like no other, spewing forth a bronze tray filled with tantalizing delicacies. Yet, the strangeness doesn't end there—geese, mysterious guests, and a peculiar screen unfold in this extraordinary tale of a feast that defies reality and leaves Xu Yan questioning the limits of the ordinary.