Name Meaning
Yanari (家鳴) means “house sounds,” referring to strange creaks, knocks, or shakes heard in buildings, attributed to yokai.
- Ya (家) = house
- Nari (鳴) = sound or ringing
Origin
- Stories of yanari appear in old Japanese households, especially wooden buildings.
- Associated with haunted locations or buildings with unhappy histories.
- Sometimes thought to emerge from disturbed spirits or restless energy.
Appearance
- Yanari are usually invisible, heard but not seen.
- In some tales, they manifest as small, imp-like creatures or spirits.
- Described as shadows or blurs when briefly visible.
Behavior & Myths
- Make loud, unexplained noises at night—pounding, creaking, thumping.
- Sometimes cause mild damage, like knocking over objects or shaking doors.
- May be pacified by rituals, offerings, or house repairs.
Symbolism
- Symbolize the anxiety or trauma held within a space.
- Used to explain natural creaking or seismic activity in a spiritual way.
- Reflects the idea that even homes have memory and spirit.
