百鬼夜行 · Night Parade of One Hundred Demons ANIMATED OBJECT
付喪神
付喪神
Tsukumogami
Type Animated object (tsukumogami)
Region Households throughout Japan
Appearance
Any household object that has reached 100 years of age and gained a spirit. Common forms include umbrellas (kasa-obake), lanterns (chōchin-obake), sandals, teapots, and biwa lutes — each sprouting eyes, mouths, and limbs.
Behavior
Objects discarded carelessly before their hundredth year become angry tsukumogami that band together in night parades. Well-cared-for objects become benevolent protectors. The most famous parade is the Hyakki Yagyō, the night procession of one hundred demons.
Countermeasure
Treat household objects with respect and dispose of them properly through ceremony. The Hari-kuyō festival gives rest to worn-out sewing needles. Regular cleaning and gratitude prevent objects from harboring grudges.
Tsukumogami Emaki (Muromachi period), Gazu Hyakki Yagyō (1776)