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Japanese Myths, Folktales, Folklore and Language

Episodes

Mt. Fuji: A Fire Resistant Princess and a Sword Licking Mystic (Ep. 168)

Explore the fascinating legends surrounding Japan's most iconic mountain. Discover the extraordinary myth of Konohana Sakuya Hime, the stunningly beautiful goddess of Mt. Fuji who gave birth amid flames, and the bizarre tale of En no Gyōja, a mountain ascetic with supernatural powers who could hop between mountain peaks and lick swords. Beyond the folklore, learn practical information about climbing Fuji-san, why Hakone offers some of the best views, and cultural insights about Japan's most sacred peak.
A colorful illustration featuring a traditional Japanese pagoda in the foreground, surrounded by cherry blossom trees, with Mt. Fuji in the background under a sunset sky. The text overlays read 'Explore! Small Group Adventures' and 'Mt. Fuji: A Fire Resistant Princess & a Sword Licking Mystic, Ep. 168.'

A Kanto Vs Kansai Culinary Journey (Ep. 167)

In this episode of Uncanny Japan, Thersa Matsuura explores the culinary rivalry between Kanto (Tokyo region) and Kansai (Osaka/Kyoto area). Discover the fascinating differences in flavors, preparation methods, and cultural attitudes that shape Japan's regional cuisines - from miso soup bases to tempura batters, unagi cutting techniques, and the contrasting takes on beloved dishes like okonomiyaki and tamagoyaki.
A promotional image for a travel show episode featuring a scenic background of cherry blossoms and a red pagoda, with the text 'Explore! Small Group Adventures Ep. 167' and a map highlighting the Kanto and Kansai regions of Japan, discussing the theme 'Kanto vs Kansai: Which Food is Best'.

The Golden Pavilion Has Weird Ghosts (Ep. 166)

Learn the history of Kyoto's Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), from its origins as a villa to its multiple destructions and rebuilds. Hear about its architectural features, the tragic 1950 arson, and peculiar ghost stories involving monks in loincloths captured in visitors' photographs.
A promotional image featuring the Golden Pavilion, set against a scenic backdrop with mountains and a lake, with bold text that says 'Explore! Small Group Adventures Ep. 166'.

Walking in Old Japan (Ep. 165)

Explore the world of old Japan's walking routes, from the bustling Tokaido to the mountainous Nakasendo, and discover how these historical highways shaped Japanese society during the Edo period.
A graphic featuring a traditional Japanese pagoda with a sunset background, an illustration of a traveler carrying goods, and the text 'Explore! Small Group Adventures' along with 'Walking Routes in Old Japan, Ep. 165.' A map of Japan with marked routes is also included.

Fudomyō: The Unshakable One and Fire Ceremonies (Ep. 164)

Meet Fudomyō, the fierce-looking but benevolent Buddhist deity who, despite his intimidating appearance with wild eyes and fangs, exists to help humanity. Learn about this Wisdom King's symbolic elements and the powerful Goma fire ceremony where his purifying flames burn away worldly desires and suffering.
A scenic image of a traditional Japanese pagoda surrounded by cherry blossoms, with text promoting 'Explore! Small Group Adventures' and highlighting 'Goma Fire Ritual,' featuring an illustration of a deity holding a sword and sitting amidst flames.

Bodhidharma Zazen (Ep. 163)

Zen: from Baby to How to Meditate Hey hey, my name is Thersa Matsuura, author of The Book of Japanese Folklore  and podcaster here at Uncanny Japan, my little space where I tell you about the more obscure nooks and crannies of Japanese culture. Today’s show is part of a really fun mini-series that has […]

The Salt God and the Magic of Salt (Ep. 162)

Have you ever watched a sumo match? On top of a square, packed-earth platform called a dohyo stand two giant wrestlers (called rikishi). They’re wearing nothing but a mawashi — a thirty-foot long, two foot wide thick silk loincloth and have their hair waxed with fragrant binzuke into a beautiful chonmage. Before they enter the […]
A whimsical illustration of a character with pointed ears and colorful clothing, sitting cross-legged in front of a traditional Japanese torii gate. The background features greenery and stone structures, with text overlay reading 'The God of Salt' and 'Episode 62.'

Turbo Granny and Her Fast-Footed Friends (Ep. 161)

Turbo Granny is a Japanese urban legend about a fleet-footed old woman, but did you know she has friends?
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About The Uncanny Japan Podcast

Speculative fiction writer, long-term resident of Japan and Bram Stoker Award finalist Thersa Matsuura explores all that is weird from old Japan—strange superstitions, folktales, cultural oddities, and interesting language quirks. These are little treasures she digs up while doing research for her writing.

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