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Gashadokuro - Starving Skeleton
A giant skeleton, 15 times human size, formed from the bones of those who died of starvation. It roams at midnight, biting off heads. You can only hear its teeth chattering before it strikes.
Ancient - Present
Japan
200+ witnesses
The Gashadokuro is a giant skeleton from Japanese folklore, formed from the bones of people who died of starvation or in battle without burial.
The Legend
According to documented folklore:
The Gashadokuro:
- Is a giant skeleton (15x human size)
- Formed from unburied dead
- Roams after midnight
- Bites off heads
- Makes a rattling “gachi gachi” sound
Origin
It forms from:
- Those who died of starvation
- Unburied battlefield dead
- Those who died with intense anger
- Their bones combine into one giant
Description
The creature:
- Towers over houses
- Is made of many skeletons
- Glows with ghostly fire
- Has chattering teeth
- Is nearly indestructible
The Attack
The Gashadokuro:
- Appears after midnight
- Grabs victims
- Bites off their heads
- Drinks their blood
- Vanishes before dawn
Warning Signs
Before it attacks:
- A ringing in your ears
- The sound of chattering teeth
- Unusual silence
- By then, it may be too late
Protection
Little can stop it:
- It will eventually fade
- When the grudge dissipates
- Shinto charms may help
- Running is advised