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Category: Japanese Culture 

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...
A colorful illustration titled 'Uncanny Japan' featuring hydrangeas in blue and pink hues in the background. In the foreground, a person in traditional attire is playfully blowing on a flute, while a whimsical character with an umbrella and a playful facial expression is depicted next to them.

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 digitally edited image featuring the Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) reflecting in a pond, surrounded by lush green trees in a serene outdoor setting. The text overlays include 'Ep. 166', 'Uncanny Japan', and 'The Golden Pavilion'.

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 traditional Japanese traveler carrying a large backpack on a stick, depicted in a colorful illustration, set against a background of an old map with marked walking routes and place names.

Moshi Moshi! You’re About to Meet Some Demons! (Ep. 154)

Two fascinating phrases in Japanese that have very creepy origins. What are you really doing when you answer the phone "moshi moshi" anyway?
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Chopsticks: Godly Tools or Death Bringers? ( Ep. 151)

Discover the intricacies of Japanese chopstick etiquette and lore. Learn about godly chopsticks, taboos that can bring death, and the concept of 'wa' (harmony) in Japanese culture. Avoid social faux pas and deepen your understanding of this seemingly simple yet complex utensil.
Hands holding and stretching mochi over a decorative plate placed on a sketchbook with pen drawings of people and food.

Bug News: Body Parasites or Ghosts (Mushi no Shirase)? (Ep. 148)

Have you ever had a premonition or a foreboding feeling that turned out to be true? Was it a parasitic insect living in your belly or a ghost trying to tell you something?
Illustration of a traditional East Asian scholar holding a scroll, flanked by mythical creatures in a forest setting.

Ryomen Sukuna: Awesome Saint or Japan-Destroying Demon? (Ep. 145)

The two-faced, eight-limbed giant named Ryomen Sukuna has been around since very early Japan, still is he a Buddhism-protecting hero or a cursed demon who tried to destroy Japan?
Drawing of a two-faced creature with long hair sitting in a circle, with Chinese characters on the left and right sides.
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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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