Tradition: Japanese Mythology
Alternative Names: 泡喰鳥, あわくいどり, Bubble-Eating Bird
Category: Object
The Myth
Awakuidori is a satirical bird depicted in the late Edo-period caricature Amakara Watari: Awakuidori. Its body is assembled from objects representing wealth and possessions. Its beak and legs are made of coins, while its head and wings consist of gold coins. Its feathers are formed from various account books, and its body carries household belongings, including chests and trunks arranged aboard a boat. Wheels form its eyes and the base of its tail.
The bird’s name refers to the expression awa o kuu, meaning to be startled, panic, or become flustered. In the illustration, however, Awakuidori is trying to eat ears of millet represented by hole-punched coins, creating a visual pun. The bird is said to live in prosperous, bustling places when the world is peaceful, but to fly towards remote districts and the countryside during times of turmoil. It is highly perceptive of people’s intentions and travels in all directions, preying upon farmers and townspeople and causing them considerable trouble.
Awakuidori’s composition from coins, gold pieces, account books, and household possessions makes it a satire of wealthy people who panic during periods of social upheaval, rushing about while attempting to protect their fortunes. Rather than representing a conventional supernatural predator, the bird embodies the anxiety of the wealthy when disorder threatens their property and financial security.
Sources
“Awakui-dori.” 新版TYZ 妖怪図鑑 (New TYZ Yokai Encyclopedia). https://tyz-yokai.blog.jp/archives/1062371865.html