Name Meaning
Ashimagari (足曲がり) literally means “leg entangler.” It is an invisible or semi-invisible yōkai known for causing travelers to stumble or trip on otherwise clear paths.
- Ashi (足) = Leg or foot
- Magari (曲がり) = Bending, twisting → “Twisted Leg”
Origin
- Common in rural legends throughout western Japan, especially in wooded or mountainous areas.
- Thought to be a spirit or phantom animal that passes between one's legs and causes stumbling.
Appearance
- Often invisible or manifests as a flash of movement or shadow.
- In some depictions, it resembles a fox, badger, or cat-like shape that darts between the legs.
- Associated with windy nights, foggy paths, or narrow foot trails.
Behavior
- Causes people to stumble or fall suddenly without explanation.
- Often interpreted as a trickster spirit, similar to tanuki or kitsune pranks.
- Can be avoided by stopping, bowing, or stepping aside to let it pass.
Symbolism
- Represents the dangers of traveling carelessly or alone in nature.
- Symbolizes the thin boundary between the physical world and the spirit realm.
- Reminds people to stay alert and respect the path and the unseen.
