Tradition / Region: Japanese Mythology
Alternative names: —
Category: Bird
The Myth
The Onmoraki is a grotesque bird-like yōkai born from the bodies of the recently deceased when they are not given sufficient memorial prayers. Unable to find peace, the lingering life force transforms into this demonic creature.
It appears as a large black bird covered in dark feathers, with a ghastly human face and brilliant eyes that glow like lanterns. It is also an excellent mimic, capable of perfectly imitating human voices while letting out shrill, terrifying cries.
Onmoraki haunt temples, especially those where priests have neglected their religious duties. They creep up to sleeping priests and, using the priest’s own voice, scold them for their failures. When the startled priest awakens and flees in terror, the Onmoraki disappears into the darkness, leaving only its eerie cries behind.
The creature serves as a supernatural reminder that the dead must be properly honored, for neglected memorial rites can give rise to demons instead of allowing the departed soul to find peace.
Sources
Meyer, M. (n.d.). Onmoraki. Yokai.com: The Illustrated Database of Japanese Folklore. Retrieved June 29, 2026, from https://yokai.com/onmoraki/.