This is the interpretation introduced to the world by Lafcadio Hearn, which most strongly inherits the lineage of the Chinese 'Hitouban', presented as a gruesome and ferocious 'nukekubi' (flying head). It completely breaks away from the comical image of the 'neck-stretching ghost' popularized in Edo-period sideshows, positioning it as a terrifying monster that devours human flesh and insects.

In this version, the Rokurokubi disguises itself as a perfectly normal human during the day. However, at night, when it falls asleep, only the head detaches from the torso and flies through the air to attack prey. Hidden at the base of the neck are red streaks or eerie scars resembling 'Sanskrit characters' indicating the severance. The body is completely defenseless while the head is away, and if the body is moved to another location during this time, or if the severed surface of the neck is hidden, the returning head will be unable to recombine with the flesh and will fall to the ground and die.

Its nature is extremely cruel and deeply vindictive; upon finding prey, it bares its teeth and attacks in swarms. However, at the same time, it possesses the aspect of a pitiful victim burdened with 'deep karma' whose head slips out night after night regardless of their own will. It is the manifestation of magical and psychological horror, where the 'bestiality' and 'uncontrollable repressed passions' lurking within humans escape the cage of the flesh to materialize as physical violence.