Yokai Yochi Tarot

The Yokai Yochi Tarot is a complete 78-card tarot deck that draws its inspiration from the rich tapestry of Japanese folklore, specifically focusing on yokai — supernatural entities and spirits. Created by artist buboplague, the deck offers a modern interpretation of traditional Japanese illustration, blending classic aesthetic sensibilities with contemporary artistic execution. Each card is designed to integrate these mythical beings into the established archetypes of the tarot, providing a unique lens through which to explore universal themes.

Launched on Kickstarter in 2021, the project garnered significant support, raising over $215,000 from nearly 2,600 backers. This success underscores the appeal of its distinct theme and art style within the tarot community. The deck includes a full 78-card set, accompanied by a box and a booklet, ensuring it is ready for immediate use by both new and experienced readers. The campaign also offered supplementary items such as enamel pins and a cotton tarot cloth, further enhancing the user's experience with the deck's aesthetic.

The deck is designed to be both a functional divination tool and a collectible art object. Its unique thematic focus on yokai allows for a fresh perspective on tarot readings, inviting users to connect with the cards through the narrative and symbolism of Japanese mythology. The blend of traditional and modern art styles makes it accessible to a wide audience, from those who appreciate classical Japanese aesthetics to collectors seeking a distinctive and culturally rich tarot experience.

The artwork for the Yokai Yochi Tarot is characterized by a modern take on traditional Japanese illustration, utilizing clean lines and a muted color palette with strategic accents. The dominant colors observed in the image are shades of grey, black, and white, creating a somewhat somber or ethereal mood, punctuated by touches of gold or ochre, particularly for elements like the sun or specific details. The figures, including various yokai and human-like characters, are rendered with expressive faces and dynamic poses, often conveying a sense of mystery or quiet power. The style is reminiscent of ukiyo-e woodblock prints in its composition and character design but with a contemporary, almost minimalist, finish. The use of negative space is prominent, allowing the detailed illustrations to stand out without feeling cluttered.

This deck is ideal for tarot readers and collectors with a keen interest in Japanese culture, folklore, and mythology, particularly those fascinated by yokai. It appeals to individuals who appreciate art that blends traditional aesthetics with a modern, clean execution. Experienced readers looking for a thematically rich and visually distinctive deck will find it engaging, as will beginners who are drawn to its unique art style and are open to learning tarot through a specific cultural lens.

The Yokai Yochi Tarot was created by artist buboplague, driven by a vision to combine the ancient wisdom of tarot with the rich narratives of Japanese folklore, specifically focusing on yokai. The project was launched on Kickstarter in 2021, where it quickly resonated with a global audience, exceeding its funding goals significantly. This success allowed buboplague to bring a unique artistic and cultural perspective to the tarot world, reflecting a deep appreciation for both traditional Japanese art and the symbolic depth of divination.