HANNYA

HANNYA

A woman turned demon by jealousy, with iron horns and a terrifying face.
Type: Large fiend (shapechanger), chaotic evil Habitat: Villages Region: Japan

Lore

Hannya is a female demon of jealousy that takes shape out of the emotions of a rejected woman. The best-known story is the legend of Kiyohime and the bell of Dojo-ji. It tells of Kiyohime, daughter of a wealthy headman, who fell in love with a young monk named Anchin. Fearing temptation, Anchin tried to bypass her home during his pilgrimage. When Kiyohime discovered this betrayal, her wrath turned her into a snake-like demon during the pursuit.

Anchin fled to Dojo-ji Temple and hid beneath a massive bronze bell. Kiyohime found him, coiled around the bell, and with fiery breath melted the metal, killing her beloved inside. This legend became the cornerstone of the Noh drama “Dojo-ji,” where the enraged woman is famously depicted with the horned, fanged Hannya mask, representing the ultimate transformation of jealousy into demonic power.

Stat block

Armor Class

16 (natural armor)

Hit Points

70 (8d10 + 24)

Speed

40 ft., climb 20 ft., swim 30 ft.

Saving Throws

Dex +6, Con +6, Wis +5, Cha +7

Skills

Deception +7, Insight +5, Perception +5, Stealth +6

Damage Vulnerabilities

cold

Damage Resistances

fire; bludgeoning, piercing, and slashing from non-magical attacks

Damage Immunities

poison

Condition Immunities

charmed, frightened, poisoned

Senses

darkvision 60 ft., tremorsense 30 ft., passive Perception 15

Languages

Common, Abyssal, Celestial; telepathy 120 ft.

Challenge

4 (1,100 XP)

🎭 🐍 🔔
Find this creature’s full lore and stat block in the book