Japanese bathrooms, in addition to their advanced technology, are also known as a stage for creepy urban legends. Ghostly figures inhabit these spaces and are part of the rich Japanese folklore. From goblins that clean dirt to vengeful spirits, these stories are passed down from generation to generation, perpetuating fear and curiosity. Let's explore some of the most famous ghost legends of bathrooms in Japan.
Table of Content
Aka-name: The Goblin Lambedor
The Aka-name, which can be translated as "Dirt Licker", is a peculiar creature from Japanese folklore. It is described as having a humanoid body, a grotesque face resembling that of a goblin, slimy hair, and a long, venomous tongue. Its purpose? To feed on the dirt accumulated in dirty bathrooms.
Although the idea of a "supernatural cleaner" may seem convenient, the Aka-name is not entirely harmless. If someone is licked by its venomous tongue, the result can be fatal. The legend serves as a chilling (and somewhat comical) reminder of the importance of keeping the bathroom clean.
Hanako: A Japanese "Bathroom Blonde"
The legend of Hanako is one of the best-known in Japan, especially among students. It is said that the spirit of a girl from the time of the Second World War haunts the third stall in the bathroom on the third floor of schools. To summon her, just knock three times on the door and ask, "Hanako, are you there?". If she responds or appears, prepare for a supernatural encounter.
Although it is considered harmless in most stories, some darker versions claim that Hanako can pull her victim into the toilet, drowning them. This legend bears similarities to the Brazilian "Loira do Banheiro," showing how myths from different cultures can have intriguing parallels.
Although Hanako-san is the most famous, some versions of the legend state that if you mock her or show disrespect, she may summon a more dangerous spirit. This spirit, often described as male and aggressive, attacks those who provoke Hanako or attempt to confront her.
Aka Manto: The Red Cape
Among bathroom ghosts, Aka Manto is one of the most terrifying. He appears wearing a red cloak and a white mask, approaching his victims with a fatal question: "Would you like a red cloak?" Responding "yes" means having your skin torn off and turned into a bloody cloak. Saying "no" can lead to other deadly consequences, depending on the version of the story.
The only sure way to escape from Aka Manto is by politely refusing: "No, thank you." This legend reflects the Japanese obsession with choices and consequences, turning something as simple as answering a question into a mortal dilemma.
Reiko Kashima: The Incomplete Spirit
Reiko Kashima is a tragic and vengeful figure. After being brutally attacked and left to die, she was hit by a train, resulting in the loss of her legs. Now, she haunts bathrooms, asking, "Where are my legs?". Answering correctly — "At Meishin Express Village" — is essential to avoid a terrible fate.
This legend also has connections with Teke-Teke, another mutilated spirit, but one that is not limited to bathrooms. Reiko Kashima, however, represents human fragility in the face of violence, transforming her story into a chilling warning about indifference and neglect.
We recommend reading: 15 Japanese monsters, myths and legends
Akai Kami, Aoi Kami: As Mortal Cores
This terrifying legend involves an apparently harmless choice: red or blue? After realizing he is out of toilet paper, a supernatural voice offers these options.
- Choose red: You will have your throat cut or your skin torn off.
- Choose blueYou will be strangled to death, turning your face blue-purple.
It is said that choosing any other color can trap the spirit or even lead the victim to the underworld. To escape unharmed, some versions suggest responding with "yellow," which means a bath of urine but ensures survival.
Shiro-uneri: The Ghost of the Cleaning Rag
The Shiro-uneri is a minor spirit that inhabits dirty bathrooms. It is described as an old, filthy cleaning cloth that came to life after years of neglect. It is said to appear to torment those who leave the bathroom in poor conditions, grotesquely rubbing against them. The story serves as a lesson to keep bathrooms clean.
Kanashibari no Toire: The Paralysis of the Bathroom
Some believe that certain bathrooms are cursed with the phenomenon of Kanashibari – sleep paralysis, but while the person is awake and vulnerable. Those who enter a cursed bathroom may feel stuck to the toilet, unable to move, while a malevolent presence whispers or appears in the mirror. This legend is often associated with ancient or abandoned places.
Other Lesser Legends
Kurokami no Onna: The Woman with Black Hair
This legend tells of a woman with long black hair who appears in the mirrors of public restrooms, especially in train stations. If you look directly at her, she may whisper disturbing secrets or ask for help to "find her child." Ignoring the request or trying to leave without answering may result in curses or fatal accidents.
Hidaruma: The Spirit of Fire
It is said that in some old bathrooms, especially in schools or temples, the Hidaruma, a fire spirit, can appear when candles are lit in the bathroom. He appears as a figure wrapped in flames and forces his victim to perform dangerous challenges. If they fail, he consumes their soul.
Zōri-baki no Rei: The Ghost of the Sandals
In traditional Japanese bathrooms, it is common to leave shoes outside and wear specific slippers for the area. There is a legend that says that if the slippers are placed haphazardly, a spirit known as Zōri-baki no Rei will appear to haunt the user. He is described as a hunched old man, with bright eyes and a sinister laugh, causing the person to lose balance while walking or to slip dangerously.
Benjo-gami: The God of the Bathroom
Although not exactly frightening, some legends speak of a protective spirit called Benjo-gami. He is a supernatural figure associated with prosperity and health but can become vengeful if the bathroom is mistreated or neglected. The legend suggests that keeping the bathroom clean and honoring Benjo-gami brings good luck.
The Trap of Infinite Toilet Paper
In some schools or old buildings, there is a legend that when trying to get toilet paper in a haunted bathroom, it never runs out, endlessly unrolling while a distant laugh echoes in the place. It is said that the only way to escape is to ignore the paper and leave without cleaning your hands or face.
These legends show how the Japanese can turn even the most common environments into sources of psychological terror. Bathrooms, with their privacy and vulnerability, become ideal settings for frightening folklore.