Yokai Walking Tour: Follow the Folklore through
Heian Jingu Shrine, Shinyo-do Temple, and Shokoku-ji Temple

Since ancient times, stories of the mysterious yokai (supernatural creatures from Japanese folklore) have been passed down through generations. It is said that during the Heian period (794-1185), Kyoto was the stomping ground of various yokai, such as oni (demons) and mononoke (supernatural creatures). These legendary beings may have transformed into their current forms through the blending of various oral traditions over time. In this walking tour, we explore the lands of folklore as we delve into the theme of “bakeru (transformation),” a concept which is often associated with the fox. We start first with Heian Jingu Shrine, then make our way to Shinyo-do Temple, where a stone linked to the nine-tailed fox awaits. Afterwards, we head to Shokoku-ji Temple. As you make your way through the journey, how will the yokai reveal themselves to you?

Guide: Junya Kouno (Yokai Culture Researcher, Yokai Creator)