Kappa

Region: East Asia
Location:Japan (rivers, ponds, irrigation canals)

Kappa are among Japan’s most distinct yokai — water-dwelling creatures described as child-sized, humanlike beings with scaly or slimy green skin, webbed hands and feet, and a turtle-like shell on their back. Their most iconic feature is the *sara* — a shallow dish-like depression on the top of their head that holds water. This water is the source of the Kappa’s strength, intelligence, and life-force. If the *sara* spills or dries out, the Kappa becomes weakened or immobilized. Folklore presents them as simultaneously mischievous and dangerous: pranksters with a dark streak who interact unpredictably with humans.
  Traditional stories paint Kappa as both threats and teachers. They are known for dragging animals — and sometimes humans — into rivers, pulling victims underwater with surprising strength. But they are also bound by etiquette. Kappa are compelled to bow when bowed to; doing so spills the water from their heads, rendering them powerless and allowing humans to escape or negotiate. Farmers often made pacts with local Kappa for safe waterways or protection from drowning, leaving offerings of cucumbers (the Kappa’s favorite food) carved with their names.
  Over time, the Kappa became symbolic cautionary figures, warning children about river dangers and the unpredictability of nature. Edo-period writings depict them as powerful swimmers who compete with humans or challenge travelers to sumo wrestling. Modern portrayals softened them into more comical beings, but the older stories remain vivid: creatures of the water, ruled by politeness, and capable of both kindness and harm depending on how they are treated.

World
Koina
Owner
kaixabu
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4
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This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. All characters appearing in this work are fictitious or used fictitiously. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.

The spark is human. The polish is digital.

 

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