The Demon of Togakushi: Taira no Koremochi's Autumn Encounter
- Re.JapBook
- Jan 27
- 1 min read
From Tsukioka Yoshitoshi's "New Forms of Thirty-six Ghosts" Series
The Imperial Command
This dramatic print depicts the legendary tale of Taira no Koremochi, a warrior of the mid-Heian period, who received an imperial mandate to vanquish a demon haunting Mount Togakushi in Shinano Province (modern-day Nagano).
The Autumn Deception
While viewing autumn foliage deep in the mountain, Koremochi and his retinue encountered a group of mysteriously beautiful women who invited them to join their banquet. These enchanting figures were, in truth, the demon of Togakushi and her attendants, who planned to take Koremochi's life after intoxicating him with sake.
The Divine Intervention
As Koremochi fell into a deep slumber, lulled by wine and bewitching dances, a white fox appeared in his dreams. This messenger of Hachiman Daibosatsu (the god of warriors) revealed the women's true nature and bestowed upon him a sacred sword.
The Final Battle
Awakening from his enchanted sleep, Koremochi drew the divine blade and engaged in fierce combat with the demon, who revealed her true form as Princess Momiji (Maple Princess). Through the power of his faith and the sacred sword, he emerged victorious in this supernatural confrontation.
Artistic Interpretation
Yoshitoshi captures the moment of divine revelation, with Koremochi sleeping among the autumn leaves, suggesting both the beauty and danger of this supernatural encounter. The composition brilliantly merges the natural splendor of fall foliage with the lurking presence of supernatural malevolence.
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