Humans have always sought explanations for strange phenomena, unusual dreams, or the feeling of an invisible presence. In Japanese folklore, such occurrences are often explained through Yokai. Yokai are Japanese spirits or creatures—beloved, feared, and an integral part of popular culture for hundreds of years. From the Edo period (1603–1868) scroll paintings, woodblock prints, and books—to today's video games, movies, and manga.
Yokai provide explanations and answers for uncommon events and experiences. They serve as warnings, advisories, and a link to Japan's dramatic and uncontrollable nature. Many Yokai can change their form, taking on the shape of humans, animals, or everyday objects.
There are several types of Yokai. Among the most popular are Tanuki, a cunning and playful raccoon dog. Another example is ghosts or spirits—Yurei. These are so terrifying that there is a tradition of telling stories about them on warm summer evenings so that the chills cool down the listener!
The National Museums of World Culture are now producing the first major Swedish exhibition ever on Yokai. A richly illustrated and visual exhibition that first provides a historical overview of early depictions of Yokai in scroll paintings, woodblock prints, and artifacts, and then takes us into today's anime, games, and AI-generated imagery.
The exhibition also ties into our own Nordic mythology, featuring interpretations of Japanese spirits alongside Swedish ones, such as Näcken, by illustrator and author Johan Egerkrans. The exhibition also explores horror and darkness. Those daring to enter the 15+ age-restricted room will encounter classic horror films such as Ringu (the original to The Ring) and Ju-On (The Grudge).
Yokai – Japanese Spirits is on display 13 September 2024 - 22 November 2026.
Five Yokai Meet five of the many Yokai that you will find in the exhibition.
Tanuki Tanuki, often called raccoon dogs, are beloved yokai in Japanese folklore and rival the kitsune in popularity. Tanuki can transform into almost anything, including humans, statues, and even household objects.
Kappa from the YOkai exhibition Kappa Kappa, also known as "river children," live in Japan's rivers, lakes, and ponds. They are skilled swimmers and often attack livestock and humans. Their favorite foods are cucumbers and human entrails.
Hitzume Kozo from the Yokai Exhibition Hitotsume Kozo Hitotsume Kozo, literally "one-eyed priest boys," are small, childlike figures that resemble Buddhist monks. They are mischievous and are known for suddenly appearing on dark streets to scare passersby.
Kitsune from the Yokai exhibition Kitsune Kitsune, the foxes of Japanese folklore, are known for their magical abilities. They often transform into beautiful women to trick men, but their true nature can be revealed through mistakes in their disguise, such as a protruding tail or fur.
Oni from the Yokai exhibition Oni Oni originate from truly evil people who, after death, end up in Buddhist hells where they are transformed into these monstrous demons. Their appearance can vary, with some having different colors, numbers of horns, eyes, fingers, or toes.