What does the Japanese word tenko translate as?

The Japanese word 天狗 (tengu) translates to tengu. There isn't a single perfect English equivalent, as tengu are mythical creatures. However, they are often described as:

* Mountain goblins: This captures their association with mountains and mischievous nature.

* Long-nosed goblins: Refers to their distinctive physical feature.

* Demons: While not always malevolent, they possess supernatural powers and can be dangerous.

* Yōkai: This is a broader term encompassing various supernatural creatures in Japanese folklore, and tengu fit within this category.

So, the best translation depends on the context. Simply saying "tengu" is often sufficient, as it is a well-known term in Japanese mythology.