Yuki-Onna by Lafcadio Hearn

Legend of Yuki Ona, the Snow Woman

In this podcast episode, the legend of Yuki Ona, also known as Snow Woman, is explored. Yuki Ona is a mythical winter spirit from Japan who preys on those lost in severe winter storms. The story revolves around two woodcutters, Musaku and Minokichi, who find shelter in a ferryman's hut during a snowstorm. Minokichi awakens to see a mysterious white woman in the room, tending to Musaku. She then turns her attention to Minokichi, but spares his life due to his young age. However, she warns him not to disclose what he has witnessed. The next morning, Musaku is found dead, and Minokichi keeps the encounter with the woman a secret. Years later, Minokichi meets a girl named Oyuki and they marry, having ten children together. One night, Minokichi mentions the encounter to Oyuki, realizing that she resembles the white woman. Oyuki reveals herself as the Snow Woman, threatening Minokichi to take good care of their children, before disappearing forever.