Houshin Engi is a Japanese manga series created by Ryu Fujisaki, first serialized in 1996. The story is set in a fantastical version of ancient China and follows Taikoubou, a young and skilled sorcerer tasked with capturing powerful spirits known as Youkai to restore balance to the world. The series combines elements of adventure, fantasy, and mythology, featuring a diverse cast of characters, including Youkai and other sorcerers. It explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the struggle between good and evil, making it a popular choice among fans of the genre.