are Japanese mountain ascetic hermits. They are generally part of the syncretic religion, which includes Tantric Buddhist, Shinto, and Japanese Taoist elements. Their origins can be traced back to the solitary Yama-bito and some (saints or holy persons) of the eighth and ninth centuries. According to author Frederik L. Schodt: Appearance of Yamabushi Yamabushi usually wear and bring the following cloths and items: Yuigesa () Kyahan () which guard both their feet. Tokin () which is a small hat. Shakujō (), a metal rod which they hold in hand. Oi (tool) (), backpack. Horagai () an instrument made of conch shell, which they blow. See also Cunning folk Mount Ōfuna Shaolin Monastery Yama-bito Further reading References Ascetics Hermits Mysticism Religious occupations Japanese warriors Japanese words and phrases