Tengu Japan's Large Nosed Mountain Goblin

Tengu, Japan's Large Nosed Mountain Goblin 天狗

Tengu, is a phallic-nosed forest goblin or demon closely associated with yamabushi, the mountain ascetics of Shugendo, who in times past were the majority of priests in many rural areas of Japan. They are often associated with forests and mountains. Mount Kurama in Kyoto is one such place. There is a famous Noh play on the association of Kurama with the goblin.

Large-nosed goblin mask

History

Originally Tengu had the visage of a crow or bird of prey with a beak. Specialists believe it is possible the creature came to Japan via China as an incarnation of the Hindu eagle god Garuda. They are similarities in the stories and folklore surrounding the two mythical beasts. However, over time, the demon came to have a long, phallic nose rather than Garuda's curved beak. They take their name from the Chinese dog-demon (Tiangou; "Heavenly Dog"). The long-nosed goblin and a Buddhist monk, by Kawanabe Kyosai The goblins have appeared in Japanese folklore and Japanese literature from ancient times. As such, tengu masks seen in homes and restaurants are some of the most popular in the country. Indeed, the word "Tengu" (天狗) is a popular name for a Japanese restaurant both in Japan and overseas.

Tengu Matsuri, Beppu, Oita

Long-nosed goblin masks worn by yamabushi or large tengu effigies, as pictured above in Beppu, are a common sight at some Japanese festivals.

Beppu Festival