The Book of Japanese Folklore: An Encyclopedia of the Spirits, Monsters, and Yokai of Japanese Myth: The Stories of the Mischievous Kappa, Trickster Kitsune, Horrendous Oni, and More

by Thersa Matsuura, Michelle Wang (Illustrator)

Discover everything you’ve ever wondered about the legendary spirits, creatures, and figures of Japanese folklore including how they have found their way into every corner of our pop culture from the creator of the podcast Uncanny Japan .

Welcome to The Book of Japanese Folklore : a fascinating journey through Japan’s folklore through profiles of the legendary creatures and beings who continue to live on in pop culture today.

From the sly kitsune to the orgrish oni and mischievous shape-shifting tanuki, learn all about the origins of these fantastical and mythical creatures. With information on their cultural significance, a retelling of a popular tale tied to that particular yokai, and how it’s been spun into today’s popular culture, this beautifully illustrated tome teaches you about the stories and histories of the beings that inspired characters in your favorite movies, animes, manga, and games.

Adventure, mystery, and amazing tales await in The Book of Japanese Folklore .

Genres: Mythology, Nonfiction, Japan, Folklore, Reference, Paranormal, Dragons

240 pages, Hardcover

First published April 30, 2024

About the author

My name is Thersa Matsuura. I’m a Clarion West 2015 graduate and recipient of the HWA’s Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley Scholarship. My most recent publications are Black Static, Dark Regions Press’ Madhouse Anthology, and the Fortean Times. I have a story forthcoming in Alessandro Manzetti’s THE BEAUTY IN DEATH anthology. My short story collection (A ROBE OF FEATHERS AND OTHER STORIES) was published by Counterpoint LLC.

I’m a long-term expat and have lived half my life in a small fishing town in Japan. I'm fluent in Japanese and use this to research parts of the culture that are unfamiliar to a western audience. I then spin this information into my own short fiction.

I also have a podcast: http://www.uncannyjapan.com/

And a Patreon page:https://www.patreon.com/thersamatsuura

Reviews

[Brok3n · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reference of 不思議 (magical, mysterious) and 不気味 (weird, uncanny) things

Thersa Matsuura's The Book of Japanese Folklore is a reference work about strange and magical creatures from Japanese folklore. The long subtitle "An Encyclopedia of the Spirits, Monsters, and Yokai of Japanese Myth: The Stories of the Mischievous Kappa, Trickster Kitsune" is a better summary of the contents than the title. It is organized as a reference work. That is, it consists of an alphabetical list of articles about particular mythical creatures and characters.

The alphabetical organization makes sense for a work intended to sit on a shelf for use in looking things up. The best way to evaluate such a work is to use it over a long period of time, asking, when one wants information about Japanese folklore, "Is that information present? Is it easy to find? Is it accurate and comprehensive?" In these modern times, any such reference work is in competition with the Internet. Indeed, Matsuura herself has a blog and a podcast named "Uncanny Japan" about the subjects of this encyclopedia.

In any case, I didn't have time to evaluate The Book of Japanese Folklore by using it for a few years. Instead I simply read it from front to back. It is not meant to be consumed in this way. The alphabetical organization means that related subjects are scattered all over. And some important things are missing. For instance, Jimmu, the legendary first emperor of Japan, is frequently referenced. His ancestors Amaterasu and Otohime are mentioned in some of the stories. But there is no entry for any of those three. Emperor Jimmu's story is nowhere told. That seems an odd omission in a book entitled The Book of Japanese Folklore.

On the other hand, the stories are fun. Many of them are accompanied by whimsical color pictures of the beasts in question, by Michelle Wang. I knew only a little Japanese folklore before reading this (mostly from the books of Clay and Yumi Boutwell), and I learned a lot.

I am left with mixed feelings. It was a fun read, and I'm glad I read it. On the other hand, the way it is organized makes it a less enjoyable read while not, in my opinion, making it noticeably more useful in a world that has computers and the Internet.

Thanks to NetGalley and Adams Media for an advance reader copy of The Book of Japanese Folklore.

Blog review.

[Hamed Manoochehri · Rating 5 out of 5]

خلاصه و مفید تمام چیزی که مد نظرم بود رُ توضیح داد.
هر کدوم از شخصیت های افسانه ای اول در بخش overview اجمالاً توضیح داده و بعد در قسمت Background and popular stories بسط داده میشن. اما یه چیزی که دنبالش بودم و این کتاب تأمین کرد حضور این افسانه ها در انواع مدیای مصرفی امروز ما بود: در قسمت in modern stories اشاره میشه به حضور اون شخصیت افسانه ای مورد بحث در مانگا، انیمه و حتی اخبار حوادث روز ژاپن.
آدیوبوک توسط خود نویسنده روایت شده که عالی از آب در اومده مخصوصاً وقتی میخواد داستان ها و حکایات رُ به سبک پندآموز بخونه.
++++ یادتون باشه دوستان این کتاب، کتاب فولکلورشناسی هست و برای Mythology استفاده چندانی نداره به نظر من.

[Mai H.]

Non-fiction November TBR

📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Adams Media

[Sofia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really interesting read!

This book covers a huge amount of creatures and characters from Japanese folklore and legends. It's organized in entries in alphabetical order, and each entry explains what a particular figure looks like, their background, retells at least one popular folktale about them and finally gives some fun facts and an overview of how they've influenced modern pop culture. It's written in a fun, engaging way and for many creatures there are also absolutely stunning illustrations accompanying the text.

I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

[Just Josie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a very light read about a lot of different types of folklore from Japanese history.

Cute illustrated pictures and small sweet stories.
I wasn’t overly impressed by the delivery but my interest toward folklore from Japan has definitely been piqued.

Read: 23.09.2025
1st rating: 3.5 stars
Genre/tropes: Folklore- Japan- mythology
Cover: 3 stars
Will I recommend: No- but it is a good start up introduction.

[J · Rating 3 out of 5]

***Some material may not be suitable for younger audiences, especially the portion on the tanuki***

This was a book that was passed onto me by my sister and most fortunately I have had a chance to get a fair portion of the foundations of some of Japanese mythoi beforehand so not all this material was rather new to me.

Instead the book starts off with an explanation on how the author ended up in a position to share the information and how she went around collecting it since she isn't Japanese by birth. The book then proceeds to provide some more information about Japanese culture and folklore thus helping the reader to understand just a bit more about what they are about to come face-to-face with in the following pages as well as to get a general idea of what may be brought up also in later entries.

The Book of Japanese Folklore is placed in alphabetical order thus making it easier for readers to flip through to entries that may be more or less more interesting for them at any given time. Furthermore there is also an Table of Contents as well as an Index if you aren't a skimmer. At the same time there is also a very small glossary at the back of the book that provides readers with more information about word suffixes, the various religions and also provides more details about historical texts that are mentioned multiple times in the text.

Returning to individual entries readers will find each entry variously provides the name of the creature or individual that is being explored, any translations of the name as well as a character breakdown if any, possible other names and their meanings, possibly who they may be similar to and a pronunciation, which I love. Unfortunately this pronunciation does't apply to all other additional names so there may still be some stumbling blocks to readers who don't know Japanese.

Each entry then provides an overview of the subject that provides a description and some history about the entry before providing readers with a sampling of stories via Background and Popular Stories. Each entry is fineshes more or less with a look into these characters appearing in modern day works whether literature, film or tv although some also have an additional sidebar to provide some more information.

Although the information was quite detailed it also confused me on which way the author was attempting to steer the book since at times she seemed to be wanting to pass on the cultural strength and tradition of the tales before going back in some cases to scientific explanations in trying to discredit a few of the entries by explaining them off. And as much as it was intriguing in some regards to see how the modern translations of these characters have lived on I also at the same time wished it had been left out, especially with all the Pokémon mentions.

The book does have some brightly colored as well as darkly colored illustrations depending upon the nature of the creature being portrayed. And unfortunately not every entry has an illustration for curious readers so there wasn't always something to offset some of the worst illustrations that readers may find. Furthermore I found it rather sad that the illustrator for this book didn't stick to the details that were mentioned in the entry text since it was basically right there.

All in all the book would make for a greater starter for those wanting to get to know more about Japanese culture, folklore and mythoi while at the same time helping to improve just a bit of one's pronunciation of the language if they are interested in doing so. Or there is also always the option just to read it for some fun and recreation.

[WorldconReader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend this book to readers interested in Japanese culture. “The Book of Japanese Folklore” by Thersa Matsuura introduces 45 Japanese supernatural creatures in an entertaining and very approachable style. Each creature is described with an overview followed by background and popular stories, and any roles that this creature still plays in modern media (including stories, movies, video games, etc.) along with well done and colorful illustrations. Many of the sections include brief retelling of actual folktales which really make these creatures come alive. Similarly, the author offers concrete advice on the identification of these creatures and occasionally concrete suggestions to survive the encounter. For example, if a tsuchinoko is rushing to attack you, all you need to do is wait until the last moment and jump out its way, since they can’t change direction easily. Or very practically, “if you suspect a shape-shifting kitsune (fox) is masquerading as a human, offer it a drink of alcohol and keep an eye out for the moment it lets its guard down and its tail suddenly appears.”

Speaking of shape-shifting foxes (kitsune), I knew that these fox creatures served the god Inari Okami. (They are featured prominently in the many shines dedicated to this god.) I also knew there was a relationship between this and the name of the rice snack “Inari Zushi”. However, reading the entry on Kitsune (shape-shifting supernatural foxes) I learned that these foxes like thin slices of deep-fried tofu known as abura-age, which explains why soba and udon dishes adorned with slices of abura-age are called Kitsune Soba or Kitsune Udon. Similarly, since abura-age is a key part of “Inari Zushi”, explaining why this rice snack uses the name “Inari”.

I really enjoyed reading this book, and look forward to listening to the author’s “Uncanny Japan” podcasts. I suspect I will enjoy those also! I thank the author and publisher for kindly providing a temporary electronic review copy of this excellent and entertaining reference.

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an informative and fascinating book if yokai, kami, and heroes are your thing.They are absolutely my thing.

[Justin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful book but the myths were not for me

[Teenu Vijayan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read only one shirt story but can't find a listing for the same so updating here lol

[Matt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nice collection and presentation, having modern references is cool to see how the myths are represented nowerdays too in tv/ games etc

[Jacqueline Nyathi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a wonderfully charming, entertaining, and sometimes chilling adventure through Japanese myth and legend. Matsuura introduces readers to the amazingly long history of Japanese folklore, while sharing snippets at the end of each chapter of references in current popular culture, from manga and anime to Pokemon characters. I read the book through from beginning to end—that is, from Abe No Semei to Zashiki Warashi—but those who have an interest in a particular being, spirit or creature can turn to those pages first; the book works either way.

Again, this was a very enjoyable diversion, wonderfully illuminating and accessible. Many thanks to Adams Media and NetGalley for early access.

[Chee · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a Japanese, I’m well familiar to the Japanese myths and folklore. Thanks to it I enjoyed this book even more.

[Robyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was already really interested to learn more about Japanese culture/folklore and I was absolutely delighted that the author talked about the connections of many of the yokai in modern day media. I love Manga, anime, and games, which I think made this an even better read. The illustrations sprinkled through out were very beautiful as well.

[Willows in the Wind]

Because it’s September and October is next 😁 Here we start the series of fairy and ghostly books. Everything else, follows.

[Marion · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and Adam Medias (Simon and Schuster) for their trust by sending me this ARC in exchange of an honest review!

4,5/5

I'm no stranger to Japanese myths and their creatures since I'm fascinated by mythology in general, but I have to say that apart from a few stories I read from Lafcadio Hearn before (and are a part of this work), there are many things I didn't know and that I've learnt by reading this book.

I don't think it is meant to be read in a go since it's an encyclopedia, in which yokai are sorted by alphabetical order. In each entry there are 3 parts: an "overview", the "background and popular stories" & "in modern stories" (and sometimes there's a "now you know" complement).
You also have the pronunciation and etymologies of each mythical creatures names, some Japanese expressions, their presence in pop culture (Pokemon, Yu-Gi-Oh, to name a few), and a glossary/bibliography at the end of the book, as well as beautiful illustrations by Michelle Wang.
It's interresting to see that the origin of a myth is sometimes linked to an historical event.

I highly advise you to have a computer or phone near you to be able to search for all the references mentioned in this book (artists, authors, books, geographical locations, temples, mangas,…)

Though, I think it could have been a little bit more complete (for the people that are not familiar with Japanese culture) by adding Amarterasu for exemple and other gods, creatures or emperors appearing in previous entries.

[Roeland Struik · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting collection of short stories about the different mythical beings from Japan.

[Jifu · Rating 4 out of 5]

(Note: I received an advanced reader copy of this book courtesy of NetGalley)

Since I was a kid, I've always been a fan of anything related to mythology and the like. However, I also feel like for the majority of my life, anytime I try to indulge myself in this area, the available literature tends to be heavily imbalanced towards Greek and Norse lore. Anything I read those realms is a genuine treat, and The Book of Japanese Folklore has proven to be no exception. As someone with little prior familiarity with Japanese lore, it proved to be a great introduction - each and every entry was just flat-out fun in its wonderfully informative way.

[Doreen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Happy Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month! This year, I have a big slate of topical books by AAPI authors and artists (and adjacent) that I'm hoping to be able to spotlight here, beginning with this delightful and informative illustrated volume of supernatural beings out of Japanese folklore.

Thersa Matsuura is an American expat living in Japan whose popular podcast Uncanny Japan covers the strange myths and creepy lore of her adopted country. Now she's compiled some of that knowledge into book form, covering dozens of Japanese mythical creatures and heroes in alphabetical order for easy reference and absorbing reading. From the legendary sorcerer Abe no Seimei to the trickster spirits known as Zashiki Warashi, this is a guide to the most common not-entirely-human figures out of popular Japanese tradition.

Each entry gets an Overview, a segment on its Background and Popular Stories, then a section on appearances In Modern Stories. As someone who has greatly enjoyed playing various Pokemon games over the years, learning the inspirations for some of my favorite pocket monsters made the book feel even more immediate and relevant to me. Interestingly, there wasn't a huge amount of overlap between the stuff covered here and all the knowledge I absorbed while playing the East Asian-inspired Legend Of The Five Rings CCG and RPG, tho in fairness that's likely due to L5R being designed almost entirely in the US (and tended to focus on high drama rather than supernatural whimsy.)

The figures that are covered in The Book Of Japanese Folklore run the gamut from whimsical to terrifying, presenting an overview of the country's culture through the ages, as well as its traditional attitudes towards the spirit realm. One theme that struck me was how anything -- people, animals, even inanimate objects -- could become supernatural merely by virtue of existing long enough. #Goals, tbh. As a mythology aficionado, it's fascinating for me to read of real, historical people becoming superpowered beings, in much the same way that many other cultures venerate their human heroes by turning them into demigods and saints. It was also very neat to read of it happening in reverse, as with the magical child Kintaro growing up to become the much more mundane if still legendary warrior Sakata Kintoki. Arguably, that could just be retroactive burnishing, but it is notable that his historical fellows did not get anywhere near the same PR.

The research behind this book is tremendous. Ms Matsuura takes pains to discuss the first recorded origins of each of her entries, and examines their variants as well as the possible influences behind their first appearances. It's excellent folkloric work and, perhaps more importantly, is passed on in a way that's readily accessible to the lay reader. The author also freely references her predecessors in the field of Japanese folklore compilation and urges readers to check out their works as well.

Michelle Wang's beautiful art accompanies many of these entries. I hesitate to call her work anime-inspired because they are, after all, print images, but the full color illustrations have a lovely sense of composition and flow that feels far closer to a Studio Ghibli storyboard than to your usual black-and-white comic. Which is not at all a knock on manga! My appreciation of that art form is actually what convinces me that this art is very much not that.

If you've ever wanted to learn more about the supernatural characters of Japanese folklore, I cannot recommend this book highly enough as your entryway into the subject. Written with an excellent balance of story and history, it's the perfect jumping off point to learning more about the stories that permeate Japanese culture.

The Book of Japanese Folklore by Thersa Matsuura & Michelle Wang was published yesterday April 30 2024 by Adams Media and is available from all good booksellers, including Bookshop!

This review originally appeared at TheFrumiousConsortium.net.

[Sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

tl;dr: Definitely not a bad choice to introduce you into Japanese folklore. If you're already familiar, this could work as a reference book or reminder too. I personally enjoyed the illustrations (very much kid-friendly), however my biggest gripe was just the sheer lack of artwork. Lots of text with basically nothing to go with it. Incorporating historical works, especially given how often they are referenced, would've been a huge help with this book. I still enjoyed it though, and in general would recommend it :)

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.

Not tl;dr:

Really fantastic start, eases you in to the subject really nicely. I love the humor and writing style, and the play of these spirits/gods/monsters/etc being real. (Makes the book also kid friendly in that way!)

From the well-known stories of kappa, oni, and Mamotarou, to the lesser known nue, rokurokubi, and tsuchigumo, this book covers dozens of spirits, monsters, gods, and more! Nightmarish ghouls to playful and sly foxes, this book has them all.

Each entry has the name, pronunciation (though that's hit/miss for me personally), translation of the name, and when applicable, alternative names and etymology. Then written descriptions of the thing in question, including history, stories, physical description, and where you can find references in modern pop-culture. (The latter being one of my favorite parts! I wish there had been more here.) I also love the author's speculations as to how the spirits/creatures came about into the culture, real world explanations for the strange phenomenon attributed to these beings. That added a lot of texture and interest for me, ironically made everything feel more real. It wasn't included for every entry, but was always nice when it was!

It's a very easy book to read, and a nice one to use as a reference. It's alphabetical (English), so you can quickly skim through to find whichever spirit or monster you're looking for.

One MAJOR thing I would've LOVED that I feel like this book is really hurt by with lacking: more images! There are a handful of original artworks to go along with a few of the entries, which are wonderfully done!, but there is a LOT of text with otherwise nothing to go with it. And several entries don't have any artwork at all, but I don't know if that's because I have an early copy or not. But putting little images here and there, maybe even at the title to go along with the name so we can have a better idea of what the creature/god/etc looks like--just something!

There were quite a few times too where the author references other artistic depictions of the creatures and spirits, and I understand wanting to have a particular look with the book given the original artworks, but it just feels a bit awkward to have those elements missing. I don't think it would detract from the original art included as well. Just while I'm reading the description of the artworks I'm not seeing, it makes me feel left out. I want to see the artworks too! It would've added so much to the immersion and depth of the stories and creature to use some photos of original artworks of how Japanese people depicted these spirits and monsters. It could help you connect with the history and culture.

And just an idea, but could've been a fun addition: include a map of Japan! I only say this as the author explicitly says to look up a map online so you can follow along with where various spirits or creatures make an appearance. But having a map right there would be handy, and line up with the author's suggestion.

Included at the back of the book are several books for reference and further reading, as well as a short glossary of terms.

This book was a really fun and fantastic read! I loved the author's writing style, and the artworks included are a wonderful addition. There is clearly a lot of passion and love that was put into this book, and I'm glad I had the opportunity to read it. If you're a fan of Japanese culture, or just want to dive into some fantastical folklore, I say give this one a look!

[M. K. French · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thersa loved the language and culture of Japan, studied the language in Japan back in the 1990s and learned a lot through research. She married a Japanese man and started a family, which heightened her interest in mythology and superstitions, leading to this lovely book illustrated by Michelle Wang.

Japan's myths contain stories about gods known as kami, different spirits, monsters, folk heroes yokai, the demons, and beasts of legends. These stories influenced aspects of everyday life, whether in sayings, how houses are built or arranged, and the lucky charms to protect against malevolent spirits lingering in the dark. Japan is known as the land of over eight million spirits, which is a saying meaning an infinite number. This book collects common ones in A to Z format for English-speaking readers, giving us an overview of each person or creature. There are historical sources for most of the entries, as well as a mythological background, and references to appearances in popular media.

Like any good encyclopedia, the entries give related information and refer to other entries when referenced. The folklore is layered due to time and the different origins when introduced to Japan, which are clearly laid out in each entry for the particular spirit or yokai. Some yokai developed from stories over a thousand years old, while some like the jinmengyo are more modern, with stories going back to the 1990's. If you're an anime fan, several of these entries will look familiar, but there are plenty of entries that contain new information for you. I loved seeing the ties to real history within the folklore, as well as modern media (or in Momotaro's case, a restaurant, cocktail, and jeans line!). While I was familiar with a few names thanks to Pokemon, anime, and Pathfinder, I liked seeing their origins and the meanings attributed to the names. This is a great volume for anyone looking to learn more about Japanese myth and folklore.

[G · Rating 3 out of 5]

Outlier opinion here, I guess, but unfortunately I wasn't all that impressed with this book...
The author for some reason seems to think that interest in Japanese folk-lore is a fairly recent, unexplored phenomenon, but in fact this kind of compendium has been around a fairly long time, so simply listing different kinds of yokai, kami etc. doesn't really cut it anymore. Everything felt a bit dry and thin, IMO; the author listed the same couple of anime and manga as examples of modern-day usage of the "beasties" described (hate that word? So do I. Too bad, because the author loves it and deploys it as often as she can). The illustrations were just plain awful, IMO, just really bad wannabe-manga style drawings that felt like something from a children's book. The level of storytelling wasn't all that great either. A lot of the stories the author quotes for context are retellings of Lafcadio Hearn tales, so if you're an English speaker with any interest at all in Asian horror, you've probably come across them before. Sigh. Everything was just so... average.
I don't know, I was hoping for a lot more with this one. It's not a "bad" book per se, it's just that it really is nothing special. I had a lot more fun with "Yokai Attack!: The Japanese Monster Survival Guide" by Hiroko Yoda & Matt Alt, for example, which also was about 2000% more interesting visually as well. Apparently the author is a podcaster as well; maybe her approach lends itself better to that type of medium, I have no idea.


My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Julia Young · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a longtime fan of Thersa Matsuura’s Uncanny Japan blog and podcast, I picked up The Book of Japanese Folklore hoping to immerse myself further in her signature blend of eerie, intimate storytelling. While the book maintains her thoughtful tone and deep respect for traditional tales, it trades some of the podcast’s spontaneous charm for a more organized, structured format.

Rather than the “What strange thing will we explore today?” magic that defines Uncanny Japan, the book takes a more systematic approach to Japan’s rich mythological landscape. This shift makes it an excellent reference and an easy entry point for readers new to the topic, but it does slightly dull the surprise and wonder that come from her more meandering explorations.

That said, Matsuura still shines in the way she bridges past and present. One of the book’s greatest strengths is her thoughtful inclusion of modern-day references, highlighting where these folkloric figures appear in pop culture today. Whether it’s spotting yōkai in anime or understanding the roots of a spooky story trope, those connections add a fresh relevance that makes the stories feel alive.

If you’re new to Japanese folklore or want a curated, accessible overview, this book is a strong choice. If you’re a devoted listener of Uncanny Japan, just know it’s a more grounded experience; less wandering lantern-light, more guidebook by flashlight. Still haunting, still human, just with a different rhythm.

[Steff Fox · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Book of Japanese Folklore: An Encyclopedia of the Spirits, Monsters, and Yokai of Japanese Myth by Thersa Matsuura is a treasure trove of mythology and folklore, offering readers an extensive look at the creatures and legends woven into Japanese culture. From mischievous kappa to fearsome oni, the sheer breadth of information makes this an engaging and invaluable resource for anyone interested in folklore from this area.

As a whole, the book does an excellent job of laying a solid foundation that makes it easy to step into this world of myths and spirits. Matsuura’s research appears thorough, and while I’m not personally an expert in Japanese folklore, the depth of detail suggests a comprehensive compilation. The density of the material may feel overwhelming at times but it also means this is the kind of book that rewards revisits—there’s simply too much to absorb in one sitting.

More than just an encyclopedia, this book provides a rich exploration of Japan’s mythical beings, making it both an educational tool and an enjoyable deep dive into centuries-old tales. Whether you’re a newcomer or already familiar with yokai lore, there’s always something new to uncover in its pages.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Gina Lucia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lighthearted, slightly silly, informative, and charming. This is one of those non-fiction, kind of fiction books that hits all the marks.

The Book of Japanese Folklore tells you the stories, history, and cultural context of spirits, monsters, and yokai in Japanese myth.

Honestly, this kind of book is right up my street. As a 90s kid growing up watching a mix of Pokemon, Dragon Ball Z, and Sailor Moon, I now eat up anything Japanese-related. Especially if it involves mythology and folklore.

Let’s just say it scratched that itch.

Each section within the book has just enough detail to feel like you've absorbed the information, but not so much that it's hard to follow.

Plus, I’m not sure there's anything better than learning about mythology and looking at some of the most gorgeous illustrations I’ve seen. They’re colourful, fun, and absolutely necessary.

For more reviews and book recommendations, check out my YouTube channel

[Malli (Chapter Malliumpkin) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a nice, fast paced read for me. The only reason this wasn't a full five stars was just the majority of the content in this book, I already knew about. The majority of the spirits, monsters, and yokai I've been familiar with for a long time thanks to my childhood best friend. I was so lucky to buddy read this book with them, who was kind enough to add his own cultural knowledge of his upbringing with parents who strongly believe in a lot of the beings mentioned in this book. So it was a really great experience to go back and forth on our thoughts, and discuss our favorites from within this book. Overall, a really great read and perfect for those who enjoy learning about different mythology/folklore.


All thoughts, feelings, experiences, and opinions are honest and my own.


Instagram|Ko-fi|Throne

[Vanessa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice and neat and straightforward, with cute art! A good place to start learning, to pick creatures or traditional storytelling elements that interest you and seek more in-depth info elsewhere. Kinda fun that over the weeks I read this, I was able to instantly use the info I learned--the tanuki, nekomata, and kitsune as I played Genshin Impact, the various allusions as I watched Blue Eye Samurai, so on. I knew of most of the yokai just from...existing around media coming out of Japan, but actually learning more of their history and significance was very long overdue!

The "In Modern Stories" section often felt obvious--citing Yokai Watch felt like a gimme--so I woulda liked it to either go a little more into how these modern adaptations differed from the historical sources and why. But overall I think it did a good job giving a rounded explanation of the creatures, where they originated, a vague idea as to why, and their popular interpretations.

[Lara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun, clever illustrations. Written for a younger and/or unfamiliar with Japan audience, there are constant reminders of what kami are, what tanuki are, there are many references to what Pokemon are based off of mythological creatures (quite a lot of them, turns out). I knew about baku and kappa and even jorogumo (thanks, Seanan McGuire!), but I'd never heard about Hashihime the bridge princess, or the kamaitachi (sickle weasels) or ox-demon ushioni. I definitely did not know about the children's song all about tanuki balls that's sung to the tune of "Shall We Gather at the River". The world is a rich tapestry.

[Sebastian Michaels · Rating 4 out of 5]

A strange feeling after reading this made me want to understand the meaning of the history, and more so I’ve chosen to put this down as it stands and move to a more academic textbook that will fill in the missing link this book did however, spark and interest in me, that now is my own experience as a reader/writer.

A well rounded book, and gave me the fundamental knowledge of how everything is one thing, and not unique insofar as it grows from folklore to myth in the Japanese sense and that I need to understand further.

I do however give four-stars to this text, as it’s unique and a great book to read in general.

[Paige Etheridge · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this book! This is written for the current generations on Japanese culture. There's tons of references to Pokemon and other pop culture. I especially loved the Pokemon, Spirited Away, and Metal Gear Solid references. There's also notes on sushi, hauntings, fashion and more. The book is also fantastic for people like me who are learning Japanese to see the actual use of Japanese language throughout. There's mythology I was familiar with and mythology that was new to me. Highly recommend this as a reference book for Japanese culture.