Tradition: Chinese Mythology
Alternative Names: 幽鴳
Category: Monkey
The Myth
The Youyan is a strange monkey-like creature recorded in the Classic of Mountains and Seas. It has patterned markings across its body and lives on Bianchun Mountain. Unlike an ordinary monkey, it is known for its peculiar and amusing behavior.
The Youyan enjoys laughing, and its cry sounds like the pronunciation of its own name. Whenever it encounters a human, it immediately lies down, displaying an unusual reaction to people. Its laughter, distinctive call, and curious habit of flopping onto the ground make it a memorable creature among the strange beasts of Chinese mythology.
Sources
“You-ho” (幽鴳). Chinese Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation. Accessed October 20, 2026. https://zh.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E5%B9%BD%E9%B4%B3