The Book of Yokai: Mysterious Creatures of Japanese Folklore – Michael Dylan Foster UC Press Guide

Description

Explore the fascinating world of Japanese supernatural beings with this comprehensive 336-page guide to yokai – the monsters, ghosts, and fantastic creatures that populate Japanese folklore and popular culture. Written by Michael Dylan Foster after years of research in Japan, this University of California Press publication unveils the rich history and cultural significance of these mysterious beings. From tengu mountain goblins and kappa water spirits to shape-shifting foxes and ceiling-lickers, discover over fifty individual creatures through detailed entries and original illustrations. Perfect for fans of anime, manga, Japanese culture, and folklore studies, this accessible narrative traces yokai from ancient legends to modern media appearances. Learn how these supernatural phenomena reflect broader cultural processes of tradition, storytelling, and creativity while understanding their roles in Japanese society. Whether you’re a student of Japanese culture, mythology enthusiast, or curious reader, this scholarly yet engaging book provides essential insights into one of Japan’s most enduring cultural phenomena and their influence on contemporary entertainment.

• Comprehensive Guide: 336 pages covering over fifty individual yokai with detailed entries and illustrations

• Expert Research: Written by Michael Dylan Foster based on extensive fieldwork and research in Japan

• Cultural Context: Explores historical origins, meanings, and cultural significance of Japanese supernatural beings

• Popular Culture Connection: Links traditional folklore to modern anime, manga, film, and gaming

• Academic Authority: Published by University of California Press with scholarly rigor and accessibility

• Visual Elements: Features original illustrations and detailed descriptions of creature appearances

• Folklore Analysis: Examines how people create, transmit, and interpret supernatural stories and beliefs

• Broad Appeal: Perfect for Japanese culture enthusiasts, mythology students, and general readers