Abe no Seimei

Kanji: 安倍晴明
Kana: あべのせいめい
Pronunciation: Abe no Seimei (Ah-beh no Say-may)

TRANSLATION: None (Historical Name)
ALTERNATE NAMES: None known
ORIGIN: Heian period (921–1005 CE); Historical figure and folklore legend

HABITAT: Kyoto, Imperial Court
DIET: Human food

ABILITIES:

• Mastery of Onmyodo (yin-yang magic)
• Command over Shikigami (spirit servants)
• Divination and astrology
• Exorcism of evil spirits
• Protection against curses

WEAKNESSES:

• Mortal lifespan (though rumored to be extended)
• Political intrigue of the court

OVERVIEW: 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.

APPEARANCE: Seimei is traditionally depicted as a dignified courtier in Heian-era aristocratic robes (kariginu) with a tall black hat (eboshi). In art, he often holds a fan or a paper charm and is surrounded by five-pointed stars (the Seiman symbol) and obedient paper spirits. Because of his fox heritage, he is sometimes shown with slightly vulpine features or wise, knowing eyes.

BEHAVIOR: As a court official, he was calm, rational, and highly intelligent. In legends, he is depicted as cool under pressure, easily outwitting rival sorcerers like Ashiya Doman. He used his powers to protect the capital from demons, curses, and vengeful ghosts, serving as the spiritual guardian of Kyoto.

INTERACTIONS: Seimei interacted primarily with the aristocracy, solving supernatural mysteries for the Emperor and nobles. He famously revealed the true form of Tamamo-no-Mae (the nine-tailed fox) and exorcised demons from the Rashomon gate. He is a benevolent figure who protects humanity from the encroaching darkness.

OTHER FORMS: He does not have other forms, but his mother Kuzunoha was a white fox. Legends say he inherited her spiritual power, allowing him to see spirits from a young age.