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Japanese Myths, Folktales, Folklore and Language

Episodes

A Cursed Severed Head: Taira no Masakado (Ep. 175)

Discover the legendary tale of Taira no Masakado, Japan's first samurai and one of the Three Great Vengeful Spirits. This episode explores the rise and fall of a 10th-century warrior met a tragic end that spawned centuries of supernatural revenge. From his heroic rebellion across eight provinces to his legendary flying severed head that terrorized ancient Japan, learn why Masakado's spirit continues to be honored (and feared) in modern Tokyo.
Illustration of Taira no Masakado with bold features and red accents

Saiō ga Uma: The Old Man’s Horse (Ep. 174)

Have you ever heard the proverb: Saio ga Uma? In English, it’s often called “The Old Man’s Horse” or “The old man on the Frontier who lost his horse.” It is thought to have arrived in Japan from China during the Nara or Heian Eras. There are many different versions, but let me tell you mine...
Mythical horse with green hair in a Japanese setting

Myth Tales Vol. 2: The Wonderfully Unhinged Susanoo (Ep. 173)

This second installment of Myth Tales dives into the wild, chaotic life of Susanoo — Japan's tempestuous god of storms and sea. From being birthed out of a sneeze to slaying a monstrous eight-headed dragon, Susanoo’s mythos is as thrilling as it is unhinged. If you like gods with a flair for drama and destruction (and a redemption arc to boot), you’ll love this episode.
Susano'o holding a sacred tree in a mountainous setting

Tsuyu: The Dreaded Fifth Season in Japan (Ep. 172)

Don't let anyone tell you Japan has four distinct seasons. You'll hear that a lot. But it's not true. Japan actually has five seasons. Everyone forgets...
Rainy scene with hydrangeas, kimono-clad figure, and karakasa kozo yokai.

Tōdaiki: The Truly Horrific Tale of the Candlestick Demon (Ep. 171)

Two tales of travel that went awry. The first is the gruesome story of "Tōdaik" ("The Candlestick Demon") and the second a sillier legend of "Minister Kibi's Adventures in China".
Demon with candlestick head in Japanese setting

Story Time: “Readings from the Dream Book” by Lafcadio Hearn (Ep. 170)

Terrie reads Lafcadio Hearn's metaphysical story "Readings from a Dream-book," a collection of ethereal fragments that explore the nature of consciousness, mortality, and cosmic existence.
Skeletal figure in water with big wave 'Uncanny Japan Ep. 170' text

Harnessing the Power of the Dragon God: Ryūjin (Ep. 169)

Join Thersa on a journey aboard a magical sea turtle down to the underwater palace of Ryūjin, the Japanese Dragon God. Explore the the Ryūgūjō Castle, meet its mythical inhabitants, and delve into the powerful lore surrounding this deity. Discover Ryūjin's abilities to control tides, grant wishes, and ward off evil, and learn practical ways you might connect with the spirit of the Dragon God, from ancient prayers to modern talismans.
Close-up of Ryūjin, the Japanese dragon god, with striking red eyes and intricate scales.

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.
Mount Fuji with a old fashioned tanuki in a Japanese-inspired design
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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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