HIMEJI, JAPAN - SEPTEMBER 23: Two children run next to a monster named "Kappa" while they are visiting Japan's Monster Town Fukusaki on September 23, 2026 in Himeji, Japan. Japan's small town named Fukusaki has installed statues of whimsical and spooky monsters and mythical creatures from Japanese folklore in various locations to attract tourists. These statues have been placed along streets, stand outside the local shops, appear in a park and in a pond, successfully drawing visitors to the small town. The local administration aims to boost the area's businesses and economy by leveraging these legendary creatures. The town is the birthplace of Kunio Yanagita, who is considered the father of Japanese folklore studies. (Photo by Buddhika Weerasinghe/Getty Images)