One of my favorite things to read in Japanese literature is ghost stories, especially ones about Yokai. 

The Japanese term, yokai, refers to mysterious apparitions and ghostly figures. Yokai are said to appear as humans or inanimate objects, and have spiritual powers. They can even bring good fortune or misfortune to others.

Here’s a list of 12 most popular and interesting yokai & spirits in anime.

1. Yukine (Noragami)

Yukine is Yato’s shinki, which takes the shape of a katana. In Season 1, Yukine acted out and disrespected Yato. As a result, I disliked him as a character even though at his age, he should be immature. He finally redeemed himself in my eyes, when he repented for all his sins.

 

2. Ririchiyo Shirakiin (Inu x Boku SS)

I had a tough time picking between Ririchiyo Shirakiin and Sōshi Miketsukami. I ended up picking Ririchiyo because her yōkai form is pretty awesome, a half-human and half-oni. 

3. Ryuk (Death Note)

Ryuk is a shinigami, a god of death. One could argue that he should be ranked as a god instead of a lowly spirit. However, I added Ryuk because this list focuses on Japanese folklore, which includes all kinds of yōkai and supernatural beings.

4. Haruka (Tactics)

Does anybody remember this anime? If not, I feel so old. Haruka is a gorgeous tengu. He came before Shinjūrō Kurama from Kamisama Hajimemashita.

5. Uka-no-Mitama-no-Kami (Inari, Konkon, Koi Iroha)

If Uka-no-Mitama-no-Kami could grant you any wish, what would you wish for?

6. Tomoe (Kamisama Hajimemashita)

Tomoe is my favorite fox yokai. He is cynical and charming. 

7. Kuugen Tenko (Wagaya no Oinari-sama)

Kuugen Tenko is another fox deity that has strong powers.

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8. Totoro (My Neighbor Totoro)

If I have to think of some popular character mascots, Totoro would be one of them.

9. Haku (Spirited Away)

Haku in his human form, and in his dragon form as the spirit of the Kohaku River.

10. Holo (Spice and Wolf)

A 600 year-old wolf deity would make a great traveling companion.

11. The Men of Hiiro no Kakera

Being surrounded by yōkai guardians is a dream come true for a girl. I think Hiiro no Kakera is one of the better anime series based on a visual novel. It has a story line (that follows through to the end), and good character development.

 

12. Zakuro (Otome Yōkai Zakuro)

Zakuro and her friends, Susukihotaru, Bonbori and Hozuki, are half-spirit girls. They are so adorable. Now let’s sing “Benibana no Otome Uta!”

That’s it for this list of amazing anime yōkai and spirits. Do you have a favorite yokai or spiritual being? Let us know in the comments!

(source:unimetv)