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Konaki-Jijii: The Legend of Tokushima’s Crying Old Man Yokai

Ukiyo-e illustration of Konaki-Jijii, the crying old man yokai in a summer landscape.

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禅門道.

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In the heart of Tokushima Prefecture, the mystical Oboke Gorge in Miyoshi is home to the eerie legend of Konaki-Jijii, a yokai known as the Crying Old Man. This tale, deeply rooted in Japanese folklore, continues to intrigue both locals and visitors alike.

Ukiyo-e illustration of Konaki-Jijii, the crying old man yokai in a summer landscape.
AI生成イメージ / AI-generated illustration (not a photograph of the actual place)

Who is Konaki-Jijii? The Origins of the Crying Yokai

FACT: What the records say

The legend of Konaki-Jijii, or the Crying Old Man, is a well-known story in the folklore of Tokushima Prefecture, particularly in the Oboke Gorge area of Miyoshi. The yokai is described as an old man who appears as a crying baby. When a passerby picks him up, he transforms back into his true form, becoming unbearably heavy and immobilizing the victim. This tale has been passed down through generations and is a staple of local folklore. The story serves as a cautionary tale, warning people to be wary of appearances and the unexpected burdens they might bring.

The 1938 Folklore Record vs. Modern Legend

LEGEND: Traditional accounts

According to local tradition, the story of Konaki-Jijii was first recorded in 1938 as part of a broader collection of yokai tales from the region. While the core elements of the legend remain consistent, modern retellings often embellish the story, adding new layers to the character and his interactions with humans. Some versions suggest that Konaki-Jijii targets those who are greedy or selfish, serving as a moral lesson to those who encounter him. This evolution of the legend reflects the changing societal values and the enduring nature of folklore as a living tradition.

FACT: The evolution of yokai stories

The recording of Konaki-Jijii in 1938 highlights a period when many regional tales were being documented to preserve cultural heritage. This effort was part of a broader movement to capture the rich tapestry of Japanese folklore, which includes a wide variety of yokai, each with unique stories and characteristics. The preservation of these tales allows us to see how they adapt over time, reflecting the cultural and social changes within the communities that tell them.

Tokushima Miyoshi Oboke Gorge Of Yoshino River 2 - Ōboke and Koboke Valleys
“Tokushima Miyoshi Oboke Gorge Of Yoshino River 2” (Ōboke and Koboke Valleys) by 京浜にけ, CC BY-SA 3.0, source, via Wikimedia Commons

Exploring Fujikawa Valley and the Birthplace of the Legend

FACT: The landscape of Oboke Gorge

Oboke Gorge, located in the Yoshino River Valley, is a breathtaking natural landscape characterized by its steep cliffs and clear blue waters. This area, rich in natural beauty, provides a fitting backdrop for the eerie tales of yokai like Konaki-Jijii. The gorge is part of the greater Iya Valley, known for its remote and rugged terrain, which has historically fostered a rich tapestry of folklore and legends. The dramatic scenery of Oboke Gorge, with its towering rock formations and swirling waters, creates an atmosphere ripe for the imagination, making it an ideal setting for stories of the supernatural.

The Konaki-Jijii Stone Statue in Oboke Gorge

FACT: A tribute to the legend

Visitors to Oboke Gorge can find a stone statue dedicated to Konaki-Jijii, serving as a reminder of the area’s cultural heritage. This statue, located along the Yokai Kaido, a road adorned with wooden statues of various yokai, celebrates the region’s folklore and provides an engaging way for tourists to connect with these traditional stories. The presence of this statue not only honors the legend but also invites visitors to engage with the cultural history of the area, offering a tangible link to the tales that have been told for generations.

Tokushima Miyoshi Yoshino River Of Oboke Gorge 1 - Ōboke and Koboke Valleys
“Tokushima Miyoshi Yoshino River Of Oboke Gorge 1” (Ōboke and Koboke Valleys) by 京浜にけ, CC BY-SA 3.0, source, via Wikimedia Commons

Yokai Tourism in Miyoshi City and Yamashiro

FACT: Embracing yokai culture

Miyoshi City has embraced its connection to yokai culture, with various attractions and events celebrating these mythical creatures. The Yokai Kaido, mentioned earlier, is a popular destination for those interested in Japanese folklore. Additionally, local festivals often feature yokai-themed activities, drawing visitors from across Japan and beyond. These events not only celebrate the supernatural but also serve to educate and entertain, offering a unique cultural experience for all who attend.

Experiencing Shikoku’s Monster Festival and Heritage

LEGEND: Celebrating the supernatural

In Shikoku, the celebration of yokai is not limited to Miyoshi. The region hosts various festivals dedicated to these supernatural beings, where locals and tourists can immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of Japanese folklore. These events often include parades, performances, and exhibitions that highlight the unique characteristics of yokai like Konaki-Jijii. Participants may dress as their favorite yokai, bringing the legends to life and fostering a deeper appreciation for this aspect of Japanese cultural heritage.

Nearby Guide

Access

  • JR Oboke Station (Miyoshi) — JR Oboke Station is the nearest railway station to Oboke Gorge. From the station, it’s a 20-minute walk to the gorge. Alternatively, a free shuttle bus operates between the station and the boat dock during sightseeing boat hours. official site
  • Oboke Sightseeing Boat Dock (Miyoshi) — The Oboke Sightseeing Boat Dock is accessible via a 20-minute walk from JR Oboke Station. A free shuttle bus operates between the station and the dock during sightseeing boat hours. official site
  • Oboke Gorge Center Parking (Miyoshi) — For visitors traveling by car, the Oboke Gorge Center offers free parking facilities. The center is approximately a 60-minute drive from Tokushima City via Route 32. details

Nearby sights

  • Oboke Gorge (Miyoshi) — Oboke Gorge is a scenic gorge located in the western part of Tokushima Prefecture in Japan. It is situated in the Yoshino River Valley and is known for its steep cliffs, clear blue water, and beautiful natural scenery. The gorge is formed by the Oboke River, which flows through the surrounding mount. details
  • Koboke Gorge (Miyoshi) — Koboke Gorge is located about 3 kilometers downstream from Oboke Gorge. It features similar geological formations and offers additional scenic views of the Yoshino River and surrounding landscapes. official site
  • Yokai Kaido (Miyoshi) — Yokai Kaido is a road in Oboke adorned with wooden statues of local yokai (spirits). These statues represent various mythical creatures from Japanese folklore and add a unique cultural element to the area. official site

Where to stay

  • Hotel Iya Onsen (Miyoshi) — Hotel Iya Onsen is a traditional Japanese inn located in the Iya Valley, offering hot spring baths and scenic views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a popular choice for visitors seeking an authentic experience in the area. details
  • Oboke Gorge Center (Miyoshi) — The Oboke Gorge Center offers accommodations and serves as a hub for visitors exploring the gorge. It provides easy access to local attractions and amenities. details

Where to eat

  • Boke Mart (Miyoshi) — Boke Mart is a popular supermarket in Oboke that stocks local specialties such as Iya soba (buckwheat noodles), tofu, and konnyaku. On weekends, it offers standing meals featuring local dishes like bokeage (fried tofu) and Unkaijiru (a dish using bokeage and grated daikon). official site
  • Cafe & Gibier (Miyoshi) — Cafe & Gibier, located at the Roadside Station Oboke, serves a variety of local dishes, including gibier (wild game) burgers. The cafe offers terrace seating with views of the Yoshino River and Oboke Gorge. official site
  • Oboke Gorge Center Restaurant (Miyoshi) — The Oboke Gorge Center features a restaurant serving local river fish dishes and Iya soba (buckwheat noodles). Tokushima specialties like Naruto-kintoki sweet potato treats are also available. details
Locator map of Japan: Miyoshi, Tokushima
Legend site: Miyoshi, Tokushima — Source: Map of Japan with highlight on 36 Tokushima prefecture.svg; Map: Lincun, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Related on JAPAN ESSENCE: Hunting for Konaki-Jijii: Exploring Tokushima’s Oboke Gorge Yokai Path | The True Legend of Nurikabe: Fukuoka’s Invisible Wall Yokai

Sources

To explore further, visit Onigawara Experience for hands-on onigawara experiences in Japan and Oni Kobo (鬼工房) for onigawara demon-tile art and charms.

About the author

JAPAN ESSENCE Editorial Team
Our mission is to bring you Japan’s legends, myths, festivals and living traditions, through both historical fact and the stories passed down over generations.

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