菅原道真
☠☠☠☠☠
Sugawara no Michizane
菅原道真
Sugawara no Michizane is a powerful god, known for controlling storms, and is often found in Tenmangu shrines.
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Kansai
The Regional Landscape Print
Kansai
Region
関西
🗻Landscape Missing
Fig 1. View of the provinceUkiyo-e Archives
Cradle of Tradition
The cultural heartland where countless yokai legends were born
Kansai Knowledge
Kansai (or Kinki) is the historical and cultural heart of Japan. Home to current and former capitals like Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka, it is the birthplace of traditional Japanese high culture. It offers a sophisticated blend of Zen temples, merchant energy, and spiritual mountains.
History & Legends
For over a millennium, Kansai was the center of imperial power. Nara became the first permanent capital in 710, followed by Kyoto (Heian-kyo) in 794, which remained the capital until 1868. This long history as the political center fostered the development of Buddhism, tea ceremony, and traditional arts.
Cultural Heritage
Kansai people are known for their distinct dialect (Kansai-ben) and outgoing nature, particularly in Osaka. The region is the origin of Geisha culture, Noh theater, and Kaiseki dining. Osaka is famously known as 'Japan's Kitchen,' celebrating a food culture that contrasts with Kyoto's refined courtly cuisine.
Geography
The region is defined by the Seto Inland Sea to the south and Lake Biwa—Japan's largest lake—in the center. It consists of several basins surrounded by mountains, providing natural defense and distinct local climates.
Chronicles of the Land
794
Capital moves to Heian-kyo
Emperor Kammu moves the capital to Kyoto, beginning the Heian Period.
1467
Onin War
A civil war that destroys much of Kyoto and triggers the chaotic Sengoku period.
1583
Building of Osaka Castle
Toyotomi Hideyoshi begins construction of the massive fortress that would become a symbol of Osaka.
Spirits of Kansai
式神
☠☠☠
Shikigami
式神
Shikigami is a summoned servant, known for obeying onmyoji masters, and is often found in rituals.
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Kansai
荼枳尼天
☠☠☠☠
Dakini
荼枳尼天
Dakini is a powerful deity, known for riding white foxes, and is often found in Inari shrines.
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Kansai
茨木童子
☠☠☠☠☠
Ibaraki Doji
茨木童子
Ibaraki Doji is a powerful oni, known as the deputy of Shuten Doji, and is often found on Mount Oe.
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Kansai
☠
Abe no Seimei
安倍晴明
Abe no Seimei was a real historical figure who served as an onmyoji (spiritual advisor) to the emperors of the Heian period. In folklore, he is the Japanese equivalent of Merlin—a powerful sorcerer born of a human father and a kitsune (fox) mother. He is the most famous occultist in Japanese history.
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Kansai
☠
Kirin
麒麟
The Kirin is one of the most sacred divine beasts in Japanese mythology. It appears only during times of great peace or to herald the birth of a sage. It is considered more divine than even dragons or phoenixes.
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KantoKansai
☠☠☠☠
Aka Manto
赤マント
Aka Manto is a famous Japanese urban legend about a malicious spirit that haunts public toilets and school bathrooms. He asks occupants a trick question: 'Red paper or blue paper?' The answer determines their gruesome fate.
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KantoKansai
☠☠☠
Itsumade
以津真天
Itsumade is an eerie bird monster that appears during times of plague, war, or famine. It flies over the Imperial Palace or mass graves crying out 'Itsumade? Itsumade?' which means 'Until when?'—asking how long the suffering and neglect will continue.
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Kansai
完
~ End of Regional Scroll ~