Okiku is a character from Japanese folklore, often associated with the famous ghost story known as "Banchō Sarayashiki." She is depicted as a young woman who was wrongfully accused of theft and subsequently killed. After her death, her spirit is said to haunt the place where she lived, seeking revenge and justice. The tale of Okiku has inspired various adaptations in literature, theater, and film, including Kabuki performances and horror movies. Her story highlights themes of betrayal, injustice, and the supernatural, making her a significant figure in Japanese ghost stories and cultural narratives.