Zashikiwarashi: The Fortune Spirit of Japan

Zashikiwarashi, also known as the parlor child, is a spirit that brings good fortune to the house it resides in. This folklore creature is often depicted as a young boy spirit, around twelve or thirteen years old. The story of Zashikiwarashi originates from the town of Tono in Japan. According to legend, there was a merchant family in Tono who discovered the presence of a Zashikiwarashi living in their storehouse. It was said that if chaff from the rice was scattered on the floor of the storehouse, later people could see the footprints of where the small child had walked. As long as the Zashikiwarashi resided in their house, the family's fortunes were prosperous. However, tragedy struck when the Zashikiwarashi abandoned the house. The family's fortunes gradually declined, and they never experienced good fortune again. This legend has been passed down through generations, and many believe in the power of the Zashikiwarashi to bring luck and prosperity. The story of Zashikiwarashi has been popularized in various forms of media, including books and movies. One notable source is the book "Folk Legends from Tono: Japan's Spirits, Deities, and Phantastic Creatures" by Kunio Yanagita and Sasaki Kizen. This book delves into the rich folklore of Japan and explores the different supernatural beings that inhabit the country. In conclusion, the story of Zashikiwarashi is a fascinating tale of a fortune spirit that brings prosperity to those it resides with. While it may be just a legend, it holds a special place in Japanese folklore and continues to captivate the imagination of people to this day.