Beyond Kappa and Zashiki-warashi
You’ve heard of the Kappa, lurking in rivers with cucumbers in hand, and the Zashiki-warashi, the mischievous house spirit bringing luck and giggles.
But in the quiet forests and shadowed mountain paths of Iwate, more mysterious creatures stir. Some helpful, some frightening, and all very much part of the region’s rich folklore.
Let’s take a stroll (carefully!) through Iwate’s world of yōkai and kami, where the supernatural hides in plain sight.
1. Yama-uba (山姥) – The Mountain Crone
Deep in the mountains, beware of the kindly old woman who invites you into her hut. She might just be a Yama-uba, the wild witch of the woods.
– Often appears as a wrinkled old woman offering food or shelter
– Known to devour lost travelers, especially those who fall asleep by her hearth
– But sometimes helpful, she’s also known to assist those who show her kindness or respect
– Iwate’s remote forests and lonely roads are the perfect stage for her unsettling charm.
2. Osaki (おさき) – Fox Possession
In rural Iwate, stories of fox spirits (kitsune) causing illness or strange behavior weren’t just legends, they were part of real-life explanations for the unexplainable.
– A person “possessed” by Osaki might act strangely, speak with odd voices, or fall ill
– Villagers would call a miko (shrine maiden) to perform a ritual exorcism
– Families rumored to be “fox families” were sometimes avoided for generations
– Modern science has changed beliefs, but whispers of fox mischief still linger.
3. Tsurube-otoshi (釣瓶落とし) – The Falling Head
This lesser-known yōkai is pure nightmare fuel, and yes, it’s been spotted in the Tales of Tōno.
– Said to live in ancient trees, especially tall ones with wide canopies
– Drops a giant head (yes, a head!) on unsuspecting travelers below
– Some believe it’s the spirit of a cursed tree or mountain kami angered by disrespect
– Best to bow politely to big trees… just in case.
4. Hitotsume-kozō (一つ目小僧) – The One-Eyed Child
These one-eyed, bald-headed goblins love to jump out and shout “Boo!” just to scare people. But don’t worry, they’re mostly harmless.
– Often seen carrying a lantern
– Symbol of bad luck if you see one on New Year’s Eve
– A favorite among Japanese illustrators for their weird-yet-cute appearance
– Some Iwate towns include them in parade floats or seasonal festivals.
5. Inu-gami (犬神) – The Dog Spirit
More intense than it sounds, the Inu-gami is believed to be a loyal but vengeful dog spirit, once used in old magic.
– Created through disturbing rituals involving real dogs (in Edo-era legends)
– Said to attach to a family and protect them, or curse their enemies
– Rare in modern stories, but still part of Iwate’s whispered rural lore
6. Mujina (貉) – The Faceless Japanese Badger
Mujina is a shape-shifting trickster that takes the form of a human… with no face.
– Known to appear on lonely roads at night
– Doesn’t harm, just terrifies people into running away
– The Tales of Tōno includes a version where a man meets a faceless woman combing her hair
– Turn around and walk calmly the other way, they say.
What These Creatures Represent
In Iwate’s folklore, yōkai and spirits aren’t just scary, they reflect:
– Natural fears (getting lost in the woods, facing illness or hunger)
– Cultural values (respecting nature, family, and tradition)
– And a deep belief that the world is alive and sometimes, watching
Where to Feel the Folklore
1. Tōno City: The Folklore Museum and “Legends Village” bring these stories to life
2. Local shrines and forests: Many have markers or carvings referencing these spirits
3. Festivals: Yōkai masks, dances, and floats still appear in parades, so watch for one-eyed kids or dancing foxes!
Final Thoughts: Not Just Stories
In Iwate, these creatures aren’t just the stuff of dusty books, they’re part of the land, the rivers, the trees, and maybe even your walk home from the onsen.
So if you see a flicker in the trees, or hear laughter with no source, remember:
You’re not alone. And that’s kind of the point.
