Tengu are legendary kami (gods) in Japanese mythology with deep roots in the folklore surrounding the mysticism of Ninjutsu’s inception. The actual translation of the word tengu means “heavenly dog,” though they are never depicted with any dog-like characteristics in Japanese culture.

 

Buddhism historically consider them to be demons, forebearers of war, messengers of dieties and even Buddhas to punish evildoers and protect the righteous. Many are seen carrying a hauchiwa (Japanese feather fan), to fan away misfortune and bring in the good. They live in secluded colonies with one tengu as their leader served by messenger tengu.

 

According to legend, Tengu took the form of a yamabushi and faithfully served the abbot of a Zen monastery until the man guessed his attendant's true form. Tengu's wings and huge nose then reappeared. Tengu requested a piece of wisdom from his master and left, but he continued, unseen, to provide the monastery with miraculous aid.

 

Yamabushi Tengu (Mountain Monk) - over the centuries Tengu becomes more human in appearance and takes on a protective role in the affairs of men. He can transform itself into a man, woman, or child, but its prefered disquise is to appear as a barefooted, wandering, elderly mountain hermit or monk with an extremely long nose. Both the magical tanuki and oinari can also change to human form, and in some Japanese traditions these two creatures are actually considered to be animal manifestations of Tengu. 

 

The long nose relates to Tengu’s hatred of arrogance and prejudice. Priests with no true knowledge, prideful individuals, those attached to fame, and those who willfully mislead or misuse the Buddhist cannons are turned into the long-nosed Yamabushi Tengu after their deaths. Corrupt Buddhist monks and corrupt Buddhist monestaries were in fact a major concern throughout Japan’s middle ages. Tengu are thus seen as protectors of the Dharma, and punish those who mislead the people. Over time, the folklore of tengu and yamabushi become intertwined, and even the crow tengu begin wearing the robes and caps of priests.

 

Karasu tengu resemble large birds of prey with human-like characteristics. They often wear the robes of the ascetic and mystical hermits called yamabushi, and sometimes carry fine weapons or other items stolen from human homes or temples.

 

They live solitary lives, but on rare occasions band together or with other yōkai to accomplish their goals. They accumulate hoards. Kotengu collect and trade trinkets and valuable magical items. When angered they throw tantrums and go on destructive rampages, taking out their anger on anything near them.

 

Karasu tengu have little respect for humans. They feast on human flesh, and commit rape, torture, and murder for fun. Some of their favorite games are abducting people to drop them from great heights deep into the woods, or tying children to the tops of trees so all can hear their screams but none can reach them. Karasu tengu kidnap people and force them eat feces until they go mad. They especially revel in sacrilege. They torment monks and nuns, rob temples, and try to seduce clergy.

 

Karasu tengu’s greatest weakness is overconfidence. There are countless folk stories about them being duped into trading powerful magical items or giving up valuable information in exchange for worthless trinkets. Foolish karasu tengu overestimate their own intelligence when trying to trick humans, and end up being tricked themselves.

Boasting a history of 1,500 years, Myogi Shrine is situated on the hillside of Mount Hakuun, the highest peak of Mount Myogi. The main shrine is a lavish structure built in the rare black lacquered Gongen-zukuri style and embellished with impressive engravings by the same artisans as the famous Nikko Toshogu Shrine. Together with the Karamon gate and Urushi-Soumon gate, the structures are designated as an Important Cultural Property. In addition, the Treasure Museum exhibits such artworks as the seated statue of Fudo Myoo created by Enku, a renowned Buddha sculptor from the 1600s.

 

Myogi Shrine is popular among those praying for scholastic success or luck in love, as well as general good fortune and business success. When silkworms were commonly raised in this area (up to the mid-20th century), farmers would pray here for their silkworms as well. The shrine is accessed via steep stone stairs and is a fine example of 18th-century shrine architecture.

 

The 200-year-old weeping cherry tree is a sight to behold. It is also popular as a power spot for good luck and success in life.

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