In Yoigoshi-hen, after the tragedies that had claimed over 2000 lives, Hinamizawa has, as "Sonozaki Mion" explains, ended up with "one leg in the land of the dead." Throughout the storyline there is evidence of lingering spirits. While inside the Saiguden, "Mion" is briefly visited by the smiling spirit of Furude Rika, who helpfully supplies her with a needed scroll. Both Yae and Otobe Akira are given chances to speak with people who have died, and these conversations helped encourage them to make significant changes to their lives.