Gion's Zashiki-warashi: A sign of good fortune lurking in the depths of the light
Gion's Zashiki-warashi: A sign of good fortune lurking in the depths of the lights
Nights in Gion are quiet and somehow charming. The light of the lanterns illuminating the cobblestone streets, the footsteps of the maiko, the distant sound of the sanshin... All of these things evoke a sense of timelessness that evokes memories.
In the inner living room of such a house in Gion, even though no one should be there, you might suddenly hear laughter. A small shadow runs behind the shoji screen. The futon has been moved. There's something strange about the sweets.
Zashiki-warashi: A child-like monster that brings good fortune
Zashiki-warashi is a house-attached monster found in the Tohoku region. It is said that those who see it are blessed with good fortune, and that the house where it lived is said to be haunted. There is also a rumor that the zashiki-warashi that appears in the townhouses of Gion takes the form of a girl around 5 or 6 years old wearing a red kosode.
She may be the incarnation of someone who was born, played, and quietly disappeared in this town. Gion's zashiki-warashi not only bring good fortune, but also protect the memories of this town.
A Tale of a Tea Shop: The Day the Zashiki-warashi Left
It is said that for many years a zashiki-warashi called "Zashiko-chan" lived in a long-established teahouse. When she appeared, the number of customers increased, the geisha's dancing became more brilliant, and business flourished.
However, one year, the restaurant was renovated and the inner room was demolished, and all traces of Zashiko-chan disappeared. After that, the restaurant gradually lost customers, and Tyler closed down.
This story serves as a reminder to the people of Gion who can see, "cherish what you don't have."
Summary: Good fortune shines quietly
The Zashiki-warashi of Gion are not flashy or conspicuous. They stand quietly and silently in the depths of the light. Whether or not we notice their presence depends on the stillness of our hearts.