TSUCHIGUMO

Lore

Tsuchigumo is a monstrous purse-web spider that, over time, evolves into a yokai. Through the many years it has lived, it has gained extensive knowledge, allowing it to mask itself skillfully and wield illusions toward its own ends. As this creature ages, it becomes increasingly cunning, and its body can grow to enormous proportions; in some cases, it becomes truly colossal. Older Tsuchigumo also turn into expert predators, capable of hunting even humans. Thus, across three or four centuries, an ordinary spider can transform into a wily, treacherous being that sows fear.

Most Tsuchigumo make their homes in forests and mountainous regions, favoring secluded caves where they weave webs and set traps or ambushes for any creature that passes by. Like most spider-yokai, they use illusions and trickery to confuse their human prey. But unlike others, their illusions tend to be especially tricky, built from multiple layers that don't fade easily. Often, their traps feel more like carefully staged scenarios, expertly designed to lure in victims before they realize the danger.