Here are some possibilities and how they relate to Japanese culture:
1. Mythological Creatures:
* Yokai: A broad category encompassing various supernatural beings, spirits, monsters, and demons. Some famous examples include:
* Tengu: Mountain spirits with long noses and wings.
* Kappa: Water spirits with turtle-like shells and a love for cucumbers.
* Kitsune: Nine-tailed foxes known for their intelligence and magical abilities.
* Tanuki: Raccoon dogs associated with shapeshifting and mischief.
* Oni: Demonic ogres with horns and a fondness for human flesh.
* Kami: Shinto deities, spirits, or forces inhabiting nature, objects, and concepts. Some examples include:
* Amaterasu: Goddess of the Sun.
* Susanoo: God of storms and seas.
* Inari: Shinto deity associated with rice and sake.
2. Animals:
* Japanese culture has a deep respect for animals. Many animals are considered sacred, symbolic, or even divine. For example, the crane is a symbol of longevity, the carp represents perseverance, and the fox is associated with cunning and magic.
* Certain animals have played significant roles in Japanese folklore, mythology, and art.
3. Supernatural Beings in Literature and Film:
* Many Japanese works of fiction feature supernatural beings. These often include:
* Ghosts (Yūrei): Often depicted as vengeful spirits.
* Vampires (Kyūketsuki): Often seen as seductive and dangerous figures.
* Witches (Majo): Possess magical abilities and often associated with dark magic.
4. Alternative Interpretations:
* "Non-humans" could also refer to aliens or other extraterrestrial beings. Japanese pop culture features many examples, from classic Godzilla to modern anime and manga.
* The term might even be used to encompass beings that defy conventional categories. Some Japanese folklore features beings that blur the line between human and animal, or human and spirit.
To help me understand your question better, please clarify:
* What kind of "non-humans" are you interested in?
* What specific historical period or cultural context are you asking about?
By providing more context, I can give you a more specific and accurate answer.