Futakuchi-onna

Futakuchi-onna (Japanese: 二口女, "two-mouthed woman") is a type of Yōkai or Japanese folklore creature. According to legend, a Futakuchi-onna is a woman who has a second mouth on the back of her head, beneath her hair. This second mouth is often capable of speaking and will eat voraciously, often more than a normal mouth. It is said to be a curse or the result of a woman's actions in life.

Origins

The origins of the Futakuchi-onna myth are not entirely clear, but it is believed to be a combination of various folklore and superstitions surrounding greed, starvation, and the consequences of not using one's mouth—for speech or consumption—properly. Some stories suggest that the second mouth is a punishment for a woman's refusal to eat or speak the truth, while others claim it appears on women who have starved their stepchildren, feeding themselves while neglecting the others.

Characteristics

A Futakuchi-onna appears as a normal woman from the front. The second mouth, hidden beneath her hair at the back of her head, is fully functional and often has a mind of its own. This mouth is capable of speaking and eating, usually demanding food if the front mouth does not eat enough. The folklore suggests that the hair of a Futakuchi-onna acts like tentacles, allowing her to manipulate utensils or food to feed the second mouth.

In Popular Culture

Futakuchi-onna has been featured in various forms of media, including manga, anime, and horror films. These portrayals often emphasize the horror aspects of the myth, showcasing the second mouth as a grotesque and uncontrollable entity. However, some interpretations explore the tragic elements of the Futakuchi-onna, focusing on the pain and suffering that leads to the manifestation of the second mouth.

See Also

• Yōkai
• Japanese mythology
• Urban legends of Japan