Name Meaning
Overview
\n
Tsurube-otoshi (釣瓶落とし) translates to “falling bucket,” referencing the traditional water well pulley system—suggesting a sudden, deadly fall.
- Tsurube (釣瓶) = well bucket
- Otoshi (落とし) = to drop or fall
Origin
- Common in mountain and forest folklore throughout Japan.
- Often tied to regions with dense, dark woods or old sacred groves.
Appearance
- Usually depicted as a massive disembodied head or grotesque object.
- Sometimes appears as a fiery orb or cursed spirit disguised among tree branches.
Behavior & Myths
- Lurks in trees and drops down suddenly onto unaware travelers at night.
- Some stories say it devours people; others say it simply crushes them.
- Linked to haunted or cursed forest paths where few dare tread.
Symbolism
- Embodies sudden death and the unpredictability of nature.
- May serve as a cautionary tale to avoid traveling at night or disrespecting forest spirits.
