OBARIYON

Lore

Obariyon is an unusual yokai said to lurk deep within the forests, lying in wait along remote woodland trails for unwary travelers. Without warning, it leaps onto a person’s back, joyfully shouting, “Obariyon!”—often interpreted as “Carry me on your shoulders!”

Descriptions of this creature vary. Some claim it looks like an oversized child, while others say it resembles a rounded mass with arms and legs but no facial features. Because it typically attacks in darkness, few get a clear view of whatever has latched onto them. When Obariyon cries out its call, it clings to the traveler’s back and starts growing heavier and heavier with every step. In many tales, the victim inevitably topples under its weight.

However, some stories mention a more generous outcome—upon recovering, a traveler finds a pouch of clinking coins left as “payment” for the ride. Other versions describe a less pleasant custom, where the yokai bites into the unfortunate person’s head. Certainly not a memory anyone would cherish.