Shinigami are death spirits in Japanese folklore, similar to the Grim Reaper. They appeared in the 18th or 19th century. The name shinigami is a combination of "shi," meaning death, and "kami," meaning god or spirit.

In Japanese folklore, Shinigami are agents that help the cycle of life run smoothly. They politely invite people into death at the right time and escort their souls to the afterlife.

Many Shinigami have unknown appearances and work in pairs. They have inspired many legends, such as the tale of a man who learned that each life is measured on a candle. Once the flame burns out, the person dies.

Shinigami have appeared in modern Japanese anime and manga, including Death Note, Bleach, Naruto, and Soul Eater. https://www.ancient-origins.net/myths-legends/shinigami-grim-reaper-japanese-folklore-006072