Tradition: Japanese Mythology
Alternative Names: Sarutsura Kozo, さるつら小僧, Monkey-Faced Boy
Category: Monkey
The Myth
Sarutsura Kozō is a mysterious yokai depicted in a type of supernatural creature card game produced during Japan’s Edo period. As its name suggests, it takes the form of a young boy with a monkey-like face. Its image appeared on a picture card accompanied by the phrase “Sarutsura Kozō of Saruhashi,” linking the creature to a place called Saruhashi.
The name Saruhashi probably refers to the bridge of that name spanning the Katsura River, also known as the Sagami River. However, it is uncertain whether Sarutsura Kozō was ever the subject of an actual local legend. The creature is primarily known through its depiction on the old yokai card, which later inspired the manga artist Shigeru Mizuki to create an illustration of another yokai called Kawazaru, or River Monkey.
Sources
“Kozou.” 新版TYZ 妖怪図鑑 (New TYZ Yokai Encyclopedia). https://tyz-yokai.blog.jp/archives/1049652018.html