Bakezori: When Your Old Sandals Come Alive!

What on Earth are Bakezori, Anyway?

Ever left an old pair of shoes lying around for a bit too long? In Japan, those neglected sandals might just decide to develop a mind of their own. We’re talking about the utterly charming, slightly unsettling 化け草履, or as we know them, Bakezori. These chaps are a specific type of Tsukumogami, which are essentially ‘artefact spirits’ from Japanese folklore. Imagine your everyday objects, after about a hundred years of loyal service (or utter neglect!), suddenly sprouting arms, legs, and a rather cheeky disposition. That’s Bakezori for you.

The Humble Beginnings of Bakezori

The concept of tsukumogami, including Bakezori, has been kicking about in Japanese tradition for centuries. We can trace these haunting objects back to writings from the Heian period, which was roughly 794 to 1192. They became particularly popular in the 19th century. Legend has it that when traditional straw sandals, known as zōri, are mistreated or simply forgotten, they can transform. After a century of being unloved, these mundane items gain a spirit and become Bakezori. It’s all part of a broader belief that objects possess a soul and can develop their own consciousness when ignored.

The earliest known illustrations featuring a sandal yokai date back to a Muromachi period scroll. Anthropomorphic depictions of Bakezori, however, started appearing more frequently during the Edo period. So, next time you consider ditching those worn-out flip-flops, perhaps think twice. You wouldn’t want to create your own scuttling sandal spirit, would you?

Spotting a Lively Bakezori: Appearance & Antics

So, what does Bakezori look like when it decides to come alive? Well, picture a straw sandal. Now, give it two spindly arms and legs. Then, right in the middle, slap on a single, large eye. Sometimes, they’re even depicted wearing a comical expression or a tiny kimono. These animated sandals aren’t exactly shy. They’re known for running around the house at night. They cause all sorts of minor mischief and make quite a racket.

Their favourite party trick? A rather catchy, albeit repetitive, chant. As they scurry about, you might hear them singing: “Kararin! Kororin! Kankororin! Managu mittsu ni ha ninmai!” This translates roughly to “Eyes three and teeth two!” Some speculate this chant is actually a cheeky dig at their more robust cousins, the wooden geta clogs. Apparently, Bakezori think geta are too noisy! A bit ironic, considering Bakezori aren’t exactly known for their quietude.

More Than Just a Scuttling Sandal: Bakezori’s Lesson

While Bakezori might give you a bit of a fright, or at least a good annoyance, they’re generally considered harmless. They won’t exactly drag you under the bed. Their motivations often stem from boredom, frustration, or perhaps a smidgen of revenge for being neglected. Sometimes, they’ll even team up with other animated household items, other tsukumogami, or simply make a break for it and run away from home.

The stories of Bakezori, like many yokai tales, carry a subtle lesson. They embody the idea of respecting your belongings. They serve as a quaint, albeit spooky, reminder to use things sustainably and to avoid wasteful habits. It’s a playful expression of the animistic beliefs found in Shinto traditions, where spirits can reside in everyday objects. So, cherish your footwear, folks!

Bakezori in Pop Culture

These little sandal goblins haven’t just stayed in ancient scrolls. Bakezori have danced their way into modern Japanese culture, appearing in various forms. You can find them in films, manga, and even as cute plastic figures and stickers. They’ve even made appearances in popular video games, like the ‘Yokai Watch’ series, ensuring new generations get to experience their whimsical, albeit noisy, charm. The enduring appeal of Bakezori proves that even the most unassuming objects can inspire a bit of spooky fun.