Ancient

The earliest era of Japanese history, spanning from the Jomon period to the end of the Nara period. This time is characterized by the formation of the Yamato state, the introduction of Buddhism, and the compilation of Japan's earliest histories and mythologies.

Yokai from this era are often indistinguishable from Kami (gods). They represent raw forces of nature—mountains, thunder, rivers. Interactions with the supernatural were seen as divine encounters rather than hauntings.