Akkorokamui

Akkorokamui is a gigantic octopus-like monster from Ainu folklore, similar to the Nordic kraken. According to the legends, this amazing creature lives deep in Uchiura Bay in Hokkaido. The Ainu people, who live in this area, have told stories about Akkorokamui for many years.

It is said that Akkorokamui's body can become very large — up to the size of one hectare, which is about 110,000 square feet or around 100 meters (330 feet) across. These stories show how people imagined huge and powerful sea monsters living in the deep waters. The legend of Akkorokamui continues to capture the imagination of many people today.

Nomenclature

In the Ainu language, the word at-koro-guru means "octopus," describing something with thin strands or tentacles. The name at-kor-kamuy translates to "kamuy which has strings (tentacles)." Sometimes, people write the monster's name in kanji as 大章魚, which usually means "giant octopus."

Another word for "octopus" in Ainu is atuina or atui-[i]nau, meaning "sea-inau." Stories about this sea monster have been shared for many years, with different titles like atui-na or akkorokamui. Some tell the tale as "Adoi-inau", the wood-nusa of the sea.

Legend

According to the legend of the Iburi region, the akkoro kamuy (also called atuina) is a giant octopus and the ruler of Funka Bay, also known as Uchiura Bay. Stories say this monster can grow as large as 1 chō, which is about 1 hectare or 110,000 square feet. It was thought to be so big that it could swallow a ship whole! Sailors were very careful when they saw groups of amberjacks, ready with a big hook to protect themselves.

There are different tales about how Akkorokamui came to be. One story says it was once a huge spider named yauskep that destroyed a village. With help from magical spirits and a sea god, the spider was turned into an octopus and sent to live in Funka Bay. Another tale tells of a goddess who lost her special belt in the sea after being injured by a bear; this belt then transformed into the giant octopus.

Rātoshikamui

A giant octopus called Rātoshikamui appears in Ainu stories. It was known as the strongest creature of the sea. It once faced off against a giant bird named huri kamui, which was the strongest on land. They met at the mouth of the Ishikari River and tried to prove who was stronger. The bird pecked at the octopus's tentacles, and the octopus tried to pull the bird into the water. Neither could win, and they ended up in a draw. This battle is said to be why the area near the river is called "Ishikari."

Similar creatures

In stories from Funka Bay, there is a giant sea creature called the atuy kakura, which looks like a huge sea cucumber. It is said to have transformed from a woman's clothing and can flip over fishing boats that come too close.

Another legend tells of the repun ekas, a sea monster known as the “old man of the deep sea.” According to the tale, this monster once swallowed eight whales. Two fishermen who were also swallowed managed to start a bonfire inside the monster, which made it spit them out.

In Shinto

The Ainu people's stories about Akkorokamui have influenced Shinto, where it is seen as a minor kami, or spirit. Though it can sometimes cause harm, Akkorokamui is also thought to have the power to heal and share wisdom. People show respect to Akkorokamui by giving offerings such as fish and crab, hoping for healing, especially for problems with limbs or skin.

Akkorokamui is believed to have the special ability to regrow lost limbs, similar to real octopuses. This ability is linked to its healing powers in Shinto beliefs. By honoring Akkorokamui, followers hope to receive healing and spiritual strength.

In popular culture

In the Bob's Burgers episode "Flu-ouise", some of Louise Belcher's toys are named after Japanese legendary creatures, including an octopus called Akkoro Kamui. These toys come to life in a fever dream Louise has, and Akkoro Kamui sounds like her mother, Linda. The character also appears in The Bob's Burgers Movie.