Okureinu

Okureinu is a Japanese term that translates to "lost dog" or "stray dog." In Japanese folklore and superstition, Okureinu are believed to be spirits of dogs that have died or been abandoned, and who continue to wander the earth. These spirits are often depicted as mournful or vengeful, appearing to people who have wronged them in life, or to those who are lost or in distress. They are not necessarily malicious but are seen as beings driven by a lingering attachment to the physical world or a sense of unfinished business.

The concept of Okureinu appears in various forms across Japanese tales and legends. Sometimes they are depicted as guiding lost travelers to safety, while in other stories, they are harbingers of bad luck or even malevolent entities. The specifics of their appearance and behavior can vary greatly depending on the region and the particular narrative. Often, they are associated with crossroads, lonely roads, or places where the dog may have met its end.

While not as widely known as some other Japanese yokai, the Okureinu represents a poignant aspect of folklore, reflecting the deep connection and respect many cultures, including Japan, have historically held for dogs. The idea of a loyal companion's spirit lingering touches upon themes of loyalty, loss, and the supernatural.