Lantern Spirit
Chochin-obake
A haunted paper lantern spirit known for appearing suddenly in darkness with a glowing eye and tongue.
Mythology
Japanese Folk Tradition
Role
Lantern Yokai
Weapon
Fear and Surprise
Affiliation
Tsukumogami Spirits
Origin
Japanese Folklore
Era
Edo Period Folklore
Abilities
Object Animation
Night Appearance
Fear Inducement
Ghostly Glow
Symbolism
Darkness
Transformation
Fear
Living Objects
Themes
Fear of the dark
Objects becoming alive
Unexpected supernatural encounters
Philosophy
Interpretation
Often viewed as a playful but eerie symbol of the supernatural hidden within ordinary life.