Noppera-bō
Noppera-bō literally translates to "faceless monk." These freakishly tall and long-limbed yokai take the form of humans in public, but something is always off about their appearance.
They typically reveal their true form when interacting with mortals, sometimes frightening them to death.
Basic Information
Anatomy
These yokai have no eyes or mouths, but can nearly mimic the normal appearance of a human at a distance.
When in demon form, the noppera-bō has freakishly long arms and legs.
Behaviour
Noppera-bō usually appear in the guise of a man or a woman with his or her back turned towards the observer. When approached, the yōkai turns around and reveals its terrifying true form. To maximize the effect, they often appear with a face at first, and then wipe their face off dramatically with their hand at the most opportune time. Noppera-bō revel in the terror they inflict upon their unsuspecting victims.
Noppera-bō often work together in groups to scare one individual. As their victim runs away in a panic from the first noppera-bō, another one will approach them in disguise. When the victim explains what they saw, the second noppera-bō reveals their true form--often scaring the mortal to death.
Additional Information
Facial characteristics
No eyes or nose, just a thin-slit mouth with pruned skin around the opening.
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
They are able to sense fear in mortals and use it to their advantage, scaring them and feeding on their soul
Civilization and Culture
Naming Traditions
While they were originally described as faceless monks, the name has moved beyond its literal translation to describe any mortal-dressed yokai missing facial features.
History
Noppera-bō were first seen in ancient Asia, taking on the appearance of monks. How they came about or where they came from is still a mystery.
They have adapted to human culture throughout time and no longer dress as monks, but in any type of clothing that allows them to maintain a moderately contemporary apppearance.
Questions? Ask COGWHEEL, the Encyclopedic Bot!
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