Tradition: Japanese Mythology
Alternative Names: Bake Zōri, 化け草履, Ghost Zōri, Haunted Straw Sandals
Category: Object
The Myth
Bakezōri are supernatural sandal yōkai said to emerge when traditional Japanese straw sandals, known as zōri, are mistreated and abandoned by their owners. They take the form of animated sandals with arms and legs growing from their bodies and a single large eye in the center. Once transformed, they become mischievous household spirits that run around the house at night, making noise as their little feet clatter across hard floors.
Bakezōri are known for singing a peculiar chant as they race through the house: “Kararin! Kororin! Kankororin! Managu mittsu ni ha ninmai!” The chant refers to the sandal’s physical features, with “three eyes” representing the three holes where its straps are attached and “two teeth” referring to the two wooden clogs on the underside of Japanese sandals. The remaining words imitate the clattering sound of sandals moving across a hard surface. Through their strange appearance and noisy nighttime antics, Bakezōri embody the idea that neglected everyday objects can acquire a supernatural life of their own.
Sources
“Bakezōri.” Yokai.com. https://yokai.com/bakezouri/