Baku: The Legendary Dream Eating Monster of Japanese Mythology

The Baku, otherwise known as the dream eater, is a mythological being or spirit in Chinese and Japanese folklore which is said to devour nightmares. The Baku cannot be summoned without caution, however, as legend has it that if the Baku is not satisfied after consuming the nightmare, he may also devour one’s hopes and dreams.

Woodblock illustration of the Chinese mythological mo (貘), 1609. (Public domain)

The Chinese Mo and the Appearance of the Japanese Baku

Tales of the Baku devouring nightmares actually originated in Chinese folklore. Chinese mythology had a tradition of hybrid monsters created from the parts of several animals. The quadripartite mo of Chinese mythology was a fantastical monster made up of tiger paws, a cow tail, rhinoceros eyes and an elephant trunk. The 9th century poet Bai/Bo Juyi popularized the idea that drawings of this hybrid beast could ward off sickness and evil.