Ningyo (人魚, "human fish"), as the name suggests, is a creature with both human and fish-like features, described in various pieces of Japanese literature. Though often translated as "mermaid", the term is technically not gender-specific and may include the "mermen". The literal translation "human-fish" has also been applied.

Instead of seductive sirens, they are otherworldly nightmares. Ningyo are more fish than human. They can have anything from ugly, deformed fish-like faces, to entire human torsos with long, bony fingers and sharp claws. Ningyo range in size from a human child to a large seal.

The first mention of ningyo — a mermaid, dates back to the 8th century. The Annals of Nippon chronicle mentions a meeting in 619 with a humanoid creature living in the Omi River, in present-day Shiga Prefecture.

May 29, 2024 · Japanese mermaids — called ningyo, or "human fish" — are as nightmarish as the name sounds. Here's what the legends say about them.

May 18, 2022 · Japanese records over the centuries include various sightings of ningyo (merfolk) and stories connected to them. Artisans even created mummies of the creatures, which were said to be auspicious.

Apr 22, 2016 · The ningyo, which translates as human fish (known also as gyojin, meaning human fish, or hangyo-jin, meaning half-fish human) is a creature in Japanese folklore that is comparable to the mermaids in Western legends. Despite the similarity in concept, i.e. the ningyo and mermaid being creatures with both terrestrial and marine body parts, these ...

Sep 9, 2024 · The Ningyo, a captivating figure in Japanese folklore, is often translated as “mermaid.” However, this definition scarcely captures the depth of its significance and the nuances of its lore. The Ningyo is more than just a fantastical creature; it embodies the complex relationship between humanity and the sea, reflecting cultural beliefs ...

Mar 25, 2025 · The Japanese “ningyo (人魚)” blends eerie folklore, haunting tales, and profound symbolic meaning into a creature unlike any mermaid in Western traditions. Ningyo stories are rich in symbolism, tragedy, and mystery.

Ningyo (人魚, "human fish"), often translated as "mermaid," is a fish-like creature from Japanese folklore. Anciently, Ningyo were described with a mouth like a monkey's, small teeth like a fish's, shining golden scales, and a quiet voice like a skylark or a flute.

In the mystical world of Japanese folklore, the Ningyo is an enigmatic creature, bridging the realms of human and aquatic existence.