Tsuchinoko
Japan's most sought-after cryptid: a fat snake that squeaks, jumps, and may speak. Towns offer million-yen bounties. Ancient texts describe it. Hunters search forests yearly. No one has caught one.
The Tsuchinoko is Japan’s most famous cryptid—a short, fat snake with a wider middle than its head or tail. Ancient texts mention it, towns offer bounties for capture, and enthusiasts search for it yearly.
The Description
According to documented accounts:
The Tsuchinoko is described as:
- 30-80 cm long
- A thick middle body (like a beer bottle)
- Head and tail much narrower than body
- Scales similar to a snake
- Can jump up to 1 meter
- Moves by rolling or inchworm motion
- Makes squeaking or chirping sounds
- May be able to speak (in some accounts)
- Fond of alcohol (in folklore)
Historical Records
The creature appears in ancient texts:
- Mentioned in the Kojiki (712 AD)
- Described in Edo period literature
- Appears in ukiyo-e artwork
- Consistent descriptions over centuries
Modern Sightings
Reports continue:
- Sightings occur mainly in rural, mountainous areas
- Multiple witnesses have described encounters
- Some photographs exist (inconclusive)
- No specimens have been captured
The Bounties
Multiple Japanese towns offer rewards:
- Some bounties exceed 100 million yen ($900,000)
- Yoshii, Okayama offers 20 million yen
- These bounties have stood unclaimed for decades
- They draw hunters and tourists
Hunting Events
Towns hold Tsuchinoko hunts:
- Annual events in various villages
- Hundreds of participants search the mountains
- No captures have occurred
- The events promote tourism
Theories
Unknown Species: A real but undiscovered snake species.
Pregnant Snake: Snakes look thicker when carrying eggs.
Blue-Tongued Skink: Released pets could match descriptions.
Hoax or Misidentification: People see what they expect to see.
Surviving Relict: An ancient species that evolved differently in isolation.
Cultural Significance
The Tsuchinoko is part of Japanese culture:
- Appears in video games (including Pokémon’s Dunsparce)
- Featured in manga and anime
- Used in local tourism
- Subject of documentaries
Characteristics in Folklore
Unusual claimed behaviors:
- Swallowing its tail to roll like a hoop
- Speaking human words
- Snoring
- Having a love of sake (rice wine)
- Being able to tell lies
Scientific Interest
Herpetologists note:
- No snake matching the description is known
- The body shape is unusual for snakes
- The claimed abilities are implausible
- Yet the consistency of reports is interesting