Five Yokai
Meet five of the many Yokai that you will find in the exhibition.
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.
Meet five of the many Yokai that you will find in the exhibition.
