TOFU-KOZO

Lore

Known as the “tofu boy,” Tofu-Kodzo is a yokai whose name translates to “child carrying tofu.” Outwardly, he resembles a near-normal child toting a tray with a square of tofu. Ancient records describe him as a small boy in traditional attire, vaguely reminiscent of a youthful Buddhist monk. Yet a few details betray his inhuman nature: an oversized head, sharp claws on his hands and feet, and occasionally a long tongue.

His eyes may appear oddly vacant, and in some stories, his skin is mottled with suspicious patches, implying a connection to disease. Tofu-Kodzo is frequently said to appear at night in rainy weather. Typically, he’s spotted carrying a plate on which rests a piece of tofu adorned with a scarlet momiji (Japanese maple) leaf. Tales hold that the crimson maple leaf acts as a charm to amplify yokai magic.