Curious about the legend of a bloodcurdling old hag? This is Hanakawado. This area holds a tale dating back to around 630 AD when Senso-ji Temple was built. Hanakawado Park is east of Senso-ji Temple’s Nitenmon Gate in Asakusa.
Back then, a pond called Ubagaike was here. A terrifying old hag lived nearby. Asakusa in the 7th century was far more rustic than it is today. The capital was in Nara. Tokyo was less populated. Roads were essential for travel. Travelers needed places to stay. They often slept outside or sought shelter at temples or homes.
A road to Oshu ran through Hanakawado. This area was desolate. An old woman and her daughter lived in a rundown house. Travelers would ask to stay the night if they were near Hanakawado. The old woman always welcomed them. She offered supper and a bed. The travelers were grateful for a safe place to sleep. They quickly fell asleep, exhausted from their journey.
But her kindness was a facade. She was a demon hag. With her daughter’s reluctant help, she murdered travelers in their sleep. She stole their money and valuables. The daughter repeatedly begged her mother to stop but to no avail. Countless people died in Hanakawado.
One day, a boy arrived at the hag’s house. The daughter pleaded with her mother not to kill him. But the hag wouldn’t listen. She smiled, offering him food, a bed, and urging him to sleep. The boy obeyed. Once he was asleep, the hag killed him. But something went wrong.
What happened next? That is the rest of the legend of Hanakawado’s old hag. Today, Hanakawado is also known for other things. You can find a good gibier restaurant here. Also, the apartment ASAKUSA-HANAKAWADO offers accommodation with amenities. It is near the Nitenmon and Hozomon Gates. You can also easily reach other popular attractions such as the Asakusa Fujiasama Shrine.