Konaki-Jijii (子泣き爺)

Name Meaning

Overview

Konaki-Jijii (子泣き爺) translates to "old man who cries like a child." This yokai lures victims by crying and then crushing them under its weight.

• Ko (子) = child
• Naki (泣き) = crying
• Jijii (爺) = old man

Origin

• Originates in the Shikoku region and is known in various yokai encyclopedias like the “Gazu Hyakki Yagyō.”
• Inspired by folktales warning of deception and the supernatural in rural settings.
• Popularized by manga and anime, including “GeGeGe no Kitarō.”

Appearance

• Usually appears as a small crying child or an old man with childlike features.
• May wear a tattered kimono or appear ghostly pale.
• Transforms in weight once picked up.

Behavior & Myths

• Cries to attract the attention of passersby.
• Once lifted, it becomes impossibly heavy—crushing the victim to death.
• Acts as a cautionary tale about helping strangers in the wild.

Symbolism

• Represents deceptive appearances and supernatural punishment.
• Embodies rural fears of child spirits and isolated environments.
• Sometimes portrayed as a protective figure in modern media.