Tradition / Region: Japanese Mythology
Alternate Names: 墓の火 (Haka no hi)
Category: Flame
The Myth
Haka no hi are mysterious supernatural fires, or kaika, that spout forth from the base of graves.
The cause of Haka no hi is unknown. It is commonly believed to result from the failure of the grave’s owner to reach enlightenment and pass on to Nirvana. The flames are thought to be residual energy from worldly attachments, or feelings of grudge or resentment, coming from the remains interred in the grave.
Sources
“Hakanohi.” Yokai.com: The Database of Japanese Folklore. https://yokai.com/hakanohi/