Itsumade: The Haunting Yokai Bird That Cries ‘Until When?
What is Itsumade?
Itsumade is a mysterious yokai from Japanese folklore, often described as a giant bird that flies through the night while repeatedly crying out, “Itsumade? Itsumade?” meaning “Until when?” This eerie creature is mentioned in the historical chronicle Taiheiki, where it was said to appear during times of war, plague, and great suffering.
Characteristics of Itsumade
Appearance
Itsumade is depicted as a monstrous bird with a sharp beak and large wings. Some descriptions portray it with elongated talons and eyes that glow like fire, giving it a terrifying presence in the night sky.
Crying Voice
The most distinctive trait of Itsumade is its haunting cry of “Itsumade?”—a phrase that translates to “Until when?” This cry was believed to be an omen of doom, filling the hearts of those who heard it with fear and despair.
Legends and History of Itsumade
Mentions in Taiheiki
The Taiheiki, a historical military chronicle from the Kamakura period, records an appearance of Itsumade during an outbreak of disease and ongoing conflicts. The bird’s cry was considered a bad omen, leading people to believe that it was a supernatural manifestation of the restless spirits of the dead.
Symbolism of Wandering Spirits
Many interpretations suggest that Itsumade represents the souls of those who died in battle or perished with unfulfilled regrets. Unable to pass on to the afterlife, these spirits took the form of a ghostly bird, crying out in endless sorrow.
Symbolism of Itsumade
Itsumade carries deep symbolic meanings in Japanese folklore:
- An Omen of War and Plague – A harbinger of disaster that appears before great suffering.
- A Manifestation of the Dead – A yokai born from the souls of the deceased.
- A Warning Against Human Suffering – A supernatural reflection of unresolved pain and injustice.
Itsumade in Modern Culture
Influence on Media and Literature
In modern fiction, Itsumade occasionally appears as an eerie, ghostly bird symbolizing misfortune. It is sometimes referenced in horror stories and fantasy settings as an omen of approaching doom.
Similar Legends Around the World
Similar creatures exist in different mythologies:
- Harpies (Greek Mythology) – Winged creatures that tormented humans.
- Griffons (European Mythology) – A mystical bird-lion hybrid often linked to divine power.
Unlike these mythical beings, Itsumade is more closely tied to the concept of wandering spirits and supernatural warnings.
