Kaichigo (貝児) is a type of yokai in Japanese folklore, believed to be a tsukumogami (a spirit-possessed object) of a shell container known as a kaioke. Kaioke were beautifully crafted wooden boxes used to store shells for the traditional Heian-era game called kai-awase, which remained popular through the Edo period.
Kaichigo is said to appear as a small child-like figure and is believed to manifest when a kaioke has aged over many years.
This article explores the characteristics, folklore, and cultural significance of Kaichigo.
What is Kaichigo?
I don’t know anything about Kaichigo.
Me neither.
But now I’m interested in this Yokai because it’s related to Kaiawase!
Characteristics of Kaichigo
Kaichigo is a yokai that is said to reside within a kaioke. It is often described as having the appearance of a small child, although there are very few detailed records, and its depiction may vary across different periods and regions.
Kaioke and Tsukumogami
A kaioke is a wooden container used for the shell-matching game, kai-awase, which was a popular pastime among the nobility. These boxes were often elaborately decorated and considered valuable works of craftsmanship.
According to Japanese folklore, objects that have been cherished for a long time can develop a spirit and transform into tsukumogami. Kaichigo is thought to be one such spirit born from a well-used and aged kaioke.
Read the article below in more detail about Kaiawase.
Influence on Folklore and Culture
There are few surviving myths or stories specifically about Kaichigo, but as a type of tsukumogami, it shares the common belief that old and treasured objects can gain sentience. Additionally, since kai-awase was an aristocratic pastime, Kaichigo is indirectly associated with the refined court culture of Japan’s past.
If you are interested in Tsukumogami, please check the article below as well.
Final Thouths
Kaichigo is a tsukumogami born from a kaioke, a shell container used in noble entertainment. While there are few detailed legends about it, it remains an interesting example of how objects in Japanese folklore can take on spiritual qualities over time.
As part of Japan’s broader tsukumogami tradition, Kaichigo represents the belief that cherished objects can develop souls. Future artistic and academic exploration may bring new interpretations of this unique yokai.
If you are interested in Japanese culture, and you love gaming, you may love these games! Let’s play!
Yes! Let’s play!
Comments