The Legend of Anchin and Kiyohime: A Tale of Obsession and Fire
In the tapestry of Japanese folklore, few threads are as vibrant and terrifying as the story of Anchin and Kiyohime. It is a narrative that transcends a simple ghost story, delving deep into the human psyche, exploring themes of broken promises, obsessive love, and the destructive power of jealousy. For cultural travelers visiting the Wakayama Prefecture, the Dojoji Temple stands not just as a religious site, but as the stage for one of Japan’s most enduring tragedies.
Origins of the Tale
The legend of Anchin and Kiyohime is classified as a setsuwa—a Buddhist anecdote intended to teach a moral lesson. While Japan’s ancient creation myths are recorded in the Kojiki (712 CE) and Nihon Shoki (720 CE), this specific legend emerged later, during the Heian period.
The earliest written versions appear in the Dainihonkoku Hokkegenki (c. 1040) and the famous anthology Konjaku Monogatarishu (Tales of Times Now Past, c. 1120). Originally, the story served as a cautionary tale for monks against the dangers of lust and breaking celibacy, as well as a warning about the intensity of female attachment, a common trope in medieval Japanese Buddhism.
The Legend: A Promise Broken
The story takes place during the reign of Emperor Daigo (early 10th century). Anchin was a handsome young monk on a pilgrimage to the sacred sites of Kumano. On his journey, he sought lodging at a manor in the village of Manago, owned by the Shoji family. The family had a young daughter named Kiyohime.
Depending on the variation of the tale, either Kiyohime fell in love with Anchin at first sight, or Anchin jokingly told the young girl that he would marry her once he returned from his pilgrimage to placate her. Kiyohime, young and naive, took his words as a solemn vow. She waited patiently for his return.
However, upon his return journey, Anchin, regretting his flippant promise or fearing the breach of his vows, bypassed the manor to avoid her. When Kiyohime discovered his deception, her sorrow instantly transmuted into a blinding rage. She ran after him, barefoot and desperate.
Anchin fled toward the Hidaka River. He crossed by boat and pleaded with the ferryman not to let his pursuer follow. When Kiyohime arrived at the bank and saw Anchin escaping, her rage reached a supernatural breaking point. She dove into the water, and in her fury, she transformed into a massive, fire-breathing serpent (or dragon). She swam across the torrent, pursuing the terrified monk.
Seeking sanctuary, Anchin ran into the Dojoji Temple. The monks, seeing the serpent approaching, lowered the great temple bell (bonsho) over Anchin to hide and protect him. But the serpent Kiyohime smelled him inside. She coiled her massive body around the bronze bell. Driven by the heat of her passion and hatred, she breathed fire onto the metal, wrapping tighter and tighter. The bell grew white-hot, effectively roasting the monk alive inside. With her vengeance exacted, the serpent threw herself into the river and drowned.
Impact on Modern Culture
The story of Anchin and Kiyohime did not fade with the Heian period. It evolved into one of the most popular subjects in Japanese performing arts, known collectively as Dojoji-mono.
Noh and Kabuki Theater
The Noh play Dojoji and the Kabuki dance drama Kyoganoko Musume Dojoji (The Maiden at Dojoji Temple) are masterpieces of their respective genres. In these performances, the ghost of Kiyohime returns as a shirabyoshi dancer to curse the consecration of a new bell. The transformation from a beautiful woman into a vengeful demon is often depicted using the Hannya mask, representing a woman consumed by jealousy.
This cultural archetype of the “vengeful woman” remains a staple in Japanese horror and storytelling, influencing anime, manga, and films to this day.
Traveler’s Tips: Visiting Dojoji Temple
For those wishing to walk the path of this legend, a visit to Dojoji Temple in Hidakagawa, Wakayama Prefecture, is essential. It is the oldest temple in Wakayama, founded in 701.
- The E-toki Preaching: One of the unique experiences at Dojoji is the E-toki. Resident monks use illustrated picture scrolls (emakimono) to narrate the story of Anchin and Kiyohime to visitors. Even if you do not speak fluent Japanese, the dramatic delivery and visual aids make the story come alive.
- Kiyohime’s Grave: Nearby the temple, you can visit a mound said to be the grave of Kiyohime, adding a somber reality to the myth.
- Best Time to Visit: The temple is famous for its cherry blossoms in spring, but visiting in late April allows you to see the Anchin-Kiyohime Festival, where a parade features a large serpent prop winding through the streets.
Sources & Further Reading
To deepen your understanding of Japanese mythology and the context of this legend, consider exploring the following texts:
- Konjaku Monogatarishu (Tales of Times Now Past): The primary source for the medieval version of the Anchin and Kiyohime legend.
- Ugetsu Monogatari (Tales of Moonlight and Rain) by Ueda Akinari: While written later (1776), this collection captures the eerie atmosphere of Japanese supernatural folklore.
- Traditional Background: For foundational knowledge of Japanese mythology preceding these Buddhist tales, the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki remain the essential historical chronicles.