Koromodako

What it is

The koromodako is a creature of Japanese maritime folklore classified as a yōkai, or supernatural being. It takes the shape of a small octopus but possesses the ability to expand rapidly. When it encounters a boat, it grows to a massive size, enveloping the vessel and its occupants in its body. This expansion allows it to sink ships and drown sailors in the sea. The creature is distinct from ordinary marine life, though it shares traits with certain real-world cephalopods.

Where it comes from

The lore surrounding the koromodako is localized in northern Kyoto Prefecture. Specific accounts point to Sodeshi village at the northern tip of the Tango Peninsula. Other sources describe the phenomenon occurring in promontory areas within the Yosa District or generally across Wakasa Bay. The name translates directly to "clothing octopus," reflecting its habit of covering objects like a garment.

How it is done

The creature initially appears as a tiny octopus, sometimes concealed inside a shell. As a boat approaches, it expands its body significantly. It can grow to the size of six tatami mats, covering an area of approximately 142 square feet. Once fully expanded, it wraps around the boat, sinking the vessel and drowning everyone on board through suffocation or submersion.

Tools and materials

The primary tool of the koromodako is its own body, which acts as a binding net or blanket. It is often associated with the common blanket octopus, known locally as murasaki-dako or purple octopus. This real animal has membranes between its tentacles that allow it to expand its surface area tenfold when threatened or displaying.

What it is for

The koromodako serves as a cautionary figure in coastal communities. It represents the dangers of the sea and the unpredictable nature of maritime travel. Sailors and fishermen in the region would view the creature as a threat to their safety and livelihood, fearing its sudden appearance and destructive power.

Who does it

There are no specific practitioners of the koromodako. It is a wild entity found in folklore rather than a spirit summoned by humans. Local residents and sailors in Kyoto Prefecture were the primary witnesses and storytellers who passed down these warnings about the creature.

Peoples and places

The legend is primarily held by people in northern Japan, specifically around Kyoto Prefecture. Similar creatures exist in other parts of Japan, such as the Futon kabuse in Aichi Prefecture, which also suffocates victims by covering them. The concept of expanding sea monsters appears across various cultures, linking this Japanese tale to broader maritime myths.

What people believe

In Japanese folk belief, yōkai are spirits or entities that inhabit the natural world. The koromodako embodies the fear of the unknown depths of the ocean. Its ability to change size reflects the mysterious and shifting nature of sea creatures. The tale reinforces respect for the sea's power and the potential hazards faced by those who travel upon it.

When it is done

It is encountered randomly at sea, particularly when boats approach the promontories and bays where the creature is said to dwell.

How scholars and sceptics see it

Scholars of Japanese folklore identify the koromodako as a regional variant of sea yōkai tales. Researchers note the connection between the myth and the biological characteristics of the common blanket octopus. The local name for this octopus, koromo-dako, suggests the myth may have originated from observations of the animal's defensive displays.

Compare and confuse

The koromodako is similar to the Futon kabuse of Aichi Prefecture, which covers victims to suffocate them. It is also compared to the Cuero of Brazilian folklore, a legendary hide-like creature. Both share themes of expansive, enveloping sea monsters that threaten human life.

Questions people ask about Koromodako

Good reading and sources

• Koromodako on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data