Kintoko

Kintoko is a figure from Japanese folklore, often depicted as a mischievous and sometimes gluttonous goblin or yokai. While not as universally recognized as some other yokai like the kappa or oni, Kintoko appears in various regional tales and is sometimes associated with specific locations or traditions. Descriptions of Kintoko vary, but they are generally portrayed as small, somewhat grotesque beings with an insatiable appetite, particularly for dango, a type of Japanese dumpling.

The name Kintoko itself is thought to derive from the character "kintoki," which can refer to golden or precious, possibly alluding to a prized or rare quality, or perhaps a misinterpretation of a more complex origin. Some accounts suggest Kintoko might have originated from tales of children who were lost or spirited away, with the yokai serving as a cautionary figure. Their interactions with humans are typically characterized by pranks or demands for food, rather than malicious intent. In some narratives, Kintoko might be appeased with offerings of sweets, leading to a temporary cessation of their antics. The specific folklore surrounding Kintoko is not as standardized as that of more prominent mythological figures, leading to a diverse range of interpretations and appearances in different stories and artistic representations.