31) Japan - 15. Okurinu

Literally translated as 'escorting dog,' it is a dog yokai passed down in various parts of Japan. It is also called 'Yamainu' (mountain dog), and depending on the region, it can be a wolf instead of a dog, in which case it is called 'Okuriokami' (escorting wolf). It follows you when you walk on a mountain path in the middle of the night. If you fall, it will attack and kill you, but if you pretend to rest after falling, it won't attack. In some regions, if you beg for your life or speak to it calmly, it will actually protect you from wild animals. After safely exiting the mountain path, if you express gratitude or say goodbye, it is said that you will never meet it again. There are also traditions that it leaves if you wash your feet upon returning home, or if you give it food or a straw sandal. The following is a story from the Folktales of Chiisagata District. A woman, nearing her due date, was going to her parents' home alone when she gave birth on the mountain path. As night fell, Okurinu gathered, but instead of attacking, they protected the mother and child from wolves. Soon after, one of them brought the husband. The husband, reunited with his wife and child, treated the Okurinu to red bean rice.