Bakezōri (化け草履)

Name Meaning

Overview

Bakezōri (化け草履) means “ghost sandal” or “transformed zōri.” It is a type of **tsukumogami**, an object that comes to life after being neglected for many years.

• Bake = to transform, ghost
• Zōri = traditional Japanese straw sandal

Origin

• Comes from tsukumogami folklore, where tools and objects gain spirits after 100 years.
• Rooted in Edo-period tales of haunted household items.
• Represents the spirits of forgotten things seeking attention.

Appearance

• Looks like an animated straw sandal with two arms, two legs, and a single eye.
• Often shown leaping around joyfully or mischievously.
• May wear a comical expression or tiny kimono.

Behavior & Myths

• Chants “kararin! kororin!” while running around the house at night.
• Does no real harm but causes annoyance and noise.
• Appears when zōri are discarded carelessly or forgotten.

Symbolism

• Embodies the idea of respecting belongings, even old or worn-out ones.
• Acts as a reminder to value household objects and not waste them.
• A playful expression of animistic beliefs in Shinto traditions.