Enko

Enko is written in kanji as 猿猴. There are various theories, but generally, It refers to gibbons (long-armed monkeys).

However, enko is also one of the many types of kappa. Here, I would like to use Enko to refer to the yokai version of the creature.

I would like to take some time to think about them.

Characteristics of the Enko

It seems to be the term used in the Chugoku region, Shikoku region, and northern Kyushu to refer to a type of kappa. They are said to dwell in rivers, ponds, and sometimes even in the sea. They are known to dislike metal, has a tendency to possess people, and has a fondness for sumo wrestling.

Captured Enko

Long ago, in Tosa (present-day Kochi Prefecture), a fisherman reportedly captured it alive. According to the fisherman, the Enko he caught had the following characteristics:

• Its size was about that of a human infant.
• Its entire body was covered in a slimy, eel-like mucus.
• Its bright red face resembled that of a monkey.

While these descriptions are documented, there are also accounts stating that:

• Its entire body was covered in fur.

It appears there is no standardized appearance for the Enko. The image of a hairy one may have something to do with the resemblance to the gibbon (猿猴 in Japanese), which is a type of long-armed monkey.

Enko and Festivals

In modern times, there is a festival called “Enko-san” in Hiroshima Prefecture that is well-loved. Additionally, there is a festival called the “Enko Matsuri” in Nankoku City, Kochi Prefecture, which is a water disaster prevention festival.

Like other kappa, It is a yokai associated with water-related disasters. Such disasters are terrifying, and in Japan, there is a tradition of appeasing the anger of fearsome entities through festivals and rituals. A prominent example of this is the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto, which honors the deity Gozu Tenno.

It is likely that the aforementioned festivals are held to placate the anger of the Enko, which can cause water-related calamities.

Examination

The Enko seems to be a type of kappa that is active in western Japan. It bears a resemblance to the red kappa mentioned in the Yanagida Kunio’s Tono Monogatari. Additionally, Its tendency to pull people and animals into rivers, as well as its fondness for sumo, align closely with kappa traits.

However, it is curious why it is named enko. Other kappa are given names that evoke rivers, such as “Gataro,” “Kawataro,” or “Gawappa.” The fact that it has a name associated with monkeys is very intriguing.

As someone living in the Kanto region, I realize that my knowledge of them is limited. I would like to add more information as I learn new things.