Name Meaning
Kiyohime (清姫) means “Pure Princess,” but her story is far from innocent—she became a vengeful serpent demon after being rejected in love.
- Kiyohime = Pure (清) + Princess (姫)
Origin
- Appears in the famous tale of “Anchin and Kiyohime” from the Heian period.
- Associated with the Dōjō-ji temple in Wakayama Prefecture.
- Retold in Noh, Kabuki, and traditional Japanese literature.
Appearance
- Initially a beautiful young woman.
- Transforms into a monstrous white serpent in a fit of jealousy and grief.
- Sometimes depicted wrapped in fire as she burns through the bell of the temple.
Behavior & Myths
- She fell in love with the monk Anchin, who fled from her affections.
- In her rage, she pursued him to the temple and transformed into a serpent.
- Her fire-breathing form melted the bell Anchin hid in, killing him.
Symbolism
- Symbol of unrequited love turned to wrath.
- Represents passion, vengeance, and transformation.
- Used as a cautionary tale about deceit and emotional repression.
