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Kappa
River imps with a water-filled dish on their heads—their source of power. They drag children underwater and eat their souls through their anuses. But bow to them, and they must bow back, spilling their power.
Ancient - Present
Japan
10000+ witnesses
The Kappa is one of Japan’s most famous yokai.
The Legend
According to Japanese folklore:
Kappa are:
- River creatures
- Size of children
- Green, scaly skin
- Beak-like mouth
- Dish (sara) on head
The Sara
Their weakness:
- Water-filled depression on head
- Source of their power
- If spilled, they weaken
- Bow to them
- They must bow back, spilling water
Behavior
Kappa are known for:
- Drowning swimmers
- Attacking children
- Eating cucumbers (favorite food)
- Challenging sumo matches
- Being very polite
The Dark Side
Their dangers:
- Pull victims underwater
- Drain shirikodama (soul ball)
- From victim’s anus
- Cause drownings
- Fear near rivers
Protection
To stay safe:
- Write your name on cucumber
- Throw it in water
- Bow politely if encountered
- They must bow back
- Don’t swim alone
Honorable Nature
Despite dangers:
- Keep their promises
- Reward those who help
- Teach bone-setting
- Can be befriended
- Complex characters
Modern Belief
Today:
- Warning signs at rivers
- Kappa statues common
- Still feared by some
- Cultural symbol
- Beloved yokai