Tradition: Japanese Mythology
Alternative Names: Morubi, Moribi
Category: Flame
The Myth
Aburakae, meaning Oil Return, is a mysterious supernatural fire associated with Konyo in Itami City, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. It appears on dark nights in early summer and on cold winter nights, particularly around Konyo Pond. The strange flame is known for its peculiar sounds and its unusual journey through the surrounding landscape.
The Aburakae is said to emerge from the grave of Senso, located south of Konyo Pond, before travelling along the banks of Konyo Pond and Mizugaike Pond. It then follows the Tenjin River toward Nakayama-dera Temple. As it moves, the fire flashes with a repeated “pa-pa-pa-pa” sound, accompanied by a voice calling “ocha-ocha-ocha-ocha.” It advances rapidly without turning back, producing a further sound described as “tobo-tobo-tobo-tobo.”
The true nature of the Aburakae remains uncertain, and several explanations have been offered for its appearance. One tradition claims that it is the restless soul of someone who stole oil from Nakayama-dera Temple and now returns as a supernatural flame. Other accounts identify it as a fox wedding taking place on the northern bank of Konyo Pond, or as a fire kindled by a wolf near Senso’s grave. These different explanations surround the Aburakae with mystery, linking its strange journey to stolen oil, supernatural gatherings, and animals associated with the uncanny.
Sources
“Aburakae.” 新版TYZ 妖怪図鑑 (New TYZ Yokai Encyclopedia). https://tyz-yokai.blog.jp/archives/1010654248.html