Kawauso (獺)

About this Yokai

Kawauso (獺). In Japanese folklore, otters (“kawauso” in Japanese) were believed to have an ability to transform and deceive humans, much like foxes and raccoon dogs in East Asian tales. Because otters move skillfully through water and catch fish with ease, they are often associated with fishermen and riverside life. Many stories describe Kawauso disguising themselves as beautiful women, monks, or even children to trick passersby. Other tales depict it stretching its body into an impossibly tall monk or appearing as a floating head in fishing nets.

These stories reflect both admiration for the animal’s intelligence and unease toward the mysterious world of rivers and waterways.

Artist’s Note

Otters have a unique habit of lining up the fish they catch. To people in the past, it looked like they were making an offering to the gods. So, I was inspired to draw this Kawauso dressed as a Shinto priest.