ARE YOU WATCHING?(KAPPA)

KAPPA

Kappa are an amphibious yokai (1) of Japanese folklore said to reside in bodies of water such as ponds and rivers. Although rather clumsy on land, Kappa are believed to be malevolent, mischievous creatures in the water who commit acts from stealing clothing to drowning and murdering those who come close to the waters edge. 

Kappa are commonly described as creatures small in stature, with a turtle-shell back, webbed hands and feet, and a sara (2) at the top of the head where water is kept. Legend says that a Kappa maintains its life-source by the water kept in this vessel. If the water is knocked out, a Kappa can be vanquished or at least severely weakened. 

Many believe the legend of Kappas developed as warning mythology for misbehaving children. Parents often use the tale of these creatures to instill safety for children playing in and near water.

Some of the Kappa’s favorite things are said to be cucumbers and sumo wrestling. 

1. YOKAI: Japanese: “ghost, phantom, strange apparition”, a category of supernatural creature

2. SARA: Japanese: “dish”