Hyottoko| 火男 (ひょっとこ)

A Comic Spirit of Fire, Fortune, and Festival Play

Meaning of the Name

The name Hyottoko (ひょっとこ) is commonly understood to derive from two Japanese words: hi (fire) and otoko (man). This reflects the traditional image of Hyottoko blowing fire through a bamboo pipe, explaining his iconic puckered mouth.

Description of the Character

Hyottoko is a recognizable comic figure with a round face, skewed mouth, uneven eyes, and a dotted headscarf. His features are believed to be inspired by the Usobuki mask of Kyōgen theater.

Origin Stories and Regional Variations

The Gold-Belly Boy of Iwate: A boy who could produce gold from his belly button; his mask was placed near the hearth for prosperity.
The Fire-Blowing Spirit: A spirit or minor deity of fire, symbolized by the bamboo pipe and skewed mouth.
The Lucky Village Fool: A good-natured fool whose humorous face became a charm for happiness.
The Festival Clown: A comic performer whose exaggerated expressions became iconic in festivals.

Characteristics and Symbolism

Comical innocence
Good fortune and prosperity
Fire and hearth symbolism
Playful, off-balance movement
Partnership with Okame/Otafuku

Hyottoko in Dance and Festival Culture

Hyottoko appears in dengaku and other traditional performances, often as a comic dancer with exaggerated gestures. His dance traditions date to the Edo period and continue in regional festivals today.

Quick Reference

Category	Summary
Name Meaning	“Fire Man” — from hi (fire) + otoko (man)
Visual Traits	Skewed mouth, uneven eyes, dotted headscarf
Theatrical Influence	Inspired by Kyōgen’s Usobuki mask
Origin Legends	Gold-belly boy; fire spirit; lucky fool
Festival Role	Comic dancer in dengaku
Symbolism	Humor, luck, fire, household protection