Kidōmaru
Table of Contents
Kidōmaru
Kidōmaru (鬼童丸, 鬼同丸) is a type of yōkai, more specifically an Oni.
It has been depicted by various artists, including in the Konjaku Hyakki Shūi by Toriyama Sekien; though he merely calls him Kidō. Artistically in Sekien’s illustration, the scabbard is given a tiger-striped design; which coupled with the ox gives the impression of the ushi-tora; a direction with deep connection to the oni.
Story
The story around him states he was a legendary bandit who was often at odds with Minamoto no Raikō. Captured and beaten by Raikō’s warriors he manages to escaped, deciding how best to take his revenge.
He eventually decides to hide inside of a cow, which he had gutted so that he may ambush Raikō. However he is unsuccessful in his revenge and is ultimately killed.
Other Depictions
Art by Utagawa Kuniyoshi | Art by Utagawa Yoshitsuya |
External Links
- View the book online here: Konjaku Hyakki Shūi Online.
Footnotes
1. Yoda, H. and Alt, M. (2016) “Japandemonium: Illustrated: The Yokai Encyclopaedia of Toriyama Sekien.”. New York: Dover Publications, Inc.
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