Since ancient times, the Japanese have believed in "yōkai", mysterious beings with supernatural powers. There are many kinds, from "tengu", who fly around deep in the mountains, to the kappa living in rivers. We explore this world in a small country town that used yōkai traditions to attract tourists. In a spontaneous response to the ongoing pandemic, a "yōkai" called Amabie became a symbol of hope in Japan, inspiring people to post illustrations on social media, make Amabie figurines and even sweets. It's thought "yōkai" legends grew over the centuries as a projection of people's fears and uncertainties in times of catastrophe. The Japanese today have a great affection for these mysterious creatures.

VIDEO BY MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF JAPAN