Tengu

Meaning & Symbolism

Martial arts mastery, pride, nature's wildness. Originally seen as demons, tengu evolved into protectors of the mountains and martial arts teachers.

The Story

Mountain spirits that take two forms — karasu tengu (crow tengu) with beaks and wings, and yamabushi tengu with long red noses and priestly robes. The most famous tengu, Sōjōbō, allegedly taught swordsmanship to the young Yoshitsune on Mt. Kurama.

Traditional Placement

Best Seasons

Compatible Motifs