Yokai are basically imaginary creatures that people in Japan used to make up to explain things they didn't understand. They can look like all sorts of different things, from big scary monsters to little cute animals with magical powers. Some people think they are real, but most people now think of them like characters in a story or a movie. They are often used in art, video games, and other creative things. Think of them like the monsters in your favorite cartoon or video game, but with a special Japanese twist!