Galeri Yokai Tales

Slow-swimming bronze spirit of the Uwa Sea, whose rare sighting in regional lore is hailed as an omen of long life.

Legends of the Umibōzu ("Sea Monk") can be found throughout Japan, but they are especially common along the coast of the Uwa Sea in Ehime Prefecture. This particular version is said to have a reddish-bronze body, round eyes, a short tail, and, surprisingly, it is a rather slow swimmer. Anyone fortunate enough to catch sight of it is said to be blessed with a long life.

Ehime