The Snow Woman

An apprentice who becomes the old master’s successor in carving the Kannon statue. He is loyal and focused on perfecting the sculpture, drawing inspiration from Yuki as his muse. He grapples with keeping the Snow Woman’s secret, which tests his honesty and devotion to family and art.

A Snow Woman whose presence heals and harms. She transforms to cure a fever and to protect her loved ones, yet she is feared as a demon by villagers and priests. Her struggle between compassion and her frozen power drives the central conflict and shapes Yosaku’s fate.

A powerful feudal lord who asserts control through violence and authority. He beats the widow, accuses Yosaku of theft, and attempts to harm Yuki, epitomizing tyrannical rule. His cruelty culminates in a death that underscores the dangers of unchecked power.

An expert sculptor who competes with Yosaku to craft the Kannon statue. He presents a golden statue to the high priest, who critiques it for lacking a compassionate soul. He serves as a rival that tests Yosaku’s artistry and moral resolve.

The widow of the old master, who on her deathbed asks Yuki to marry Yosaku. Her long-standing care for the master’s memory anchors the community’s expectations and propels the narrative’s moral choices.

A shamaness presiding over religious rites who distrusts Yuki and attempts to burn her. She embodies superstition and ritual authority, often clashing with the Snow Woman and driving conflict within the temple sphere.

The couple’s son, whose birth and cries anchor the human stakes of the tale. His presence represents the future life that Yuki and Yosaku strive to protect, even as danger looms.