Japanese/Chinese Spell Casters?

[auranoir]

Ok, this might be a random question, and Anime forum is the closest I can think of to this topic... so

I've seen in animes these spell casters/wizards that use a piece of paper with writing on it to cast a spell (they usually hold it between to finger and then throw it in the air).

What I'm wondering, does this have any reference in Japanese history/tales etc? Are these spell casters and spell papers called anything? How can I search for reference pictures online?

Also if you know any characters that do so, could you give me a suggestion?

Many thanks in advance!

[Naedora]

try to look up Onmyoji and the anime Kekkaishi

[auranoir]

thanks for the suggestion!

[Naedora]

no prob.
i just finished the Kekkaishi, i might continue on with the manga
so good!

[TalnSG]

Originally Posted by auranoir

I've seen in animes these spell casters/wizards that use a piece of paper with writing on it to cast a spell (they usually hold it between to finger and then throw it in the air).

What I'm wondering, does this have any reference in Japanese history/tales etc? Are these spell casters and spell papers called anything? How can I search for reference pictures online?

This is just my own logic, but I think it holds up. I would expect it to come from the practice of writing wishes (spells) on paper and then casting it into fire, streams or the air to be taken to the Gods. Such practices are common in several religions. Shinto has many rituals which specify the use of paper, and some would equate prayers with spell casting.

[Naedora]

isnt there a Japanese festival where you write a wish on a piece of paper and then knot it to a tree branch?
i think it was called Tanabata Festival o_O