The Japanese monster known for having many eyes is the Mokumokuren.
Understanding the Mokumokuren
The Mokumokuren (目目連) is a unique and unsettling yokai, a class of supernatural monsters, spirits, and demons in Japanese folklore. Its name itself is highly descriptive, literally meaning "many eyes" or "continuous eyes," perfectly reflecting its startling appearance.
Etymology and Appearance
The name Mokumokuren vividly describes its nature. This yokai manifests as numerous disembodied eyes that peer out from torn paper screens (shōji) or cracks in walls, giving the unsettling impression that the very structure of a neglected house is watching you. Each eye is distinct, often depicted in various sizes and expressions, adding to the eerie effect.
Lore and Manifestation
Mokumokuren are traditionally considered inhabitants of haunted or neglected houses. They tend to appear in places that have fallen into disrepair, particularly in damaged paper screens, creating a sense of being constantly observed. While not typically aggressive or dangerous, their perpetual gaze can be unnerving and is often seen as a sign that a home has been left unkempt.
Origin and Cultural Significance
The creation of the Mokumokuren is famously attributed to Toriyama Sekien, an influential 18th-century ukiyo-e artist and scholar. Sekien compiled several illustrated encyclopedias of yokai, such as the renowned Gazu Hyakki Yagyō (The Illustrated Night Parade of a Hundred Demons). Through his work, these creatures became integral to Japanese popular culture and folklore.
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Name Meaning | "Many eyes" or "continuous eyes" |
| Type | Yokai (supernatural spirit/monster) |
| Appearance | Numerous eyes peering from torn shōji screens or cracks in walls |
| Habitat | Neglected or haunted houses |
| Primary Creator | Toriyama Sekien |
| Removal Method | Patching up the holes or repairing the damaged wall/screen |
Removing a Mokumokuren
According to folklore, the only effective way to remove a Mokumokuren from a home is through practical action:
- Repair Damage: The most straightforward solution is to patch up the holes in the shōji screens or repair the cracks in the walls where the eyes are manifesting.
- Maintain Your Home: By restoring the integrity and cleanliness of the house, the neglect that allowed the Mokumokuren to appear is addressed, causing the spirit to vanish.
This "solution" highlights a common theme in yokai lore, where supernatural problems can often be resolved through mundane means, emphasizing the importance of diligence and care in one's environment.
For further exploration of Japanese folklore and its fascinating creatures, you can delve into resources on Yokai.
