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Japanese Myths, Folktales, Folklore and Language

Episodes

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.
Golden Pavilion reflecting in a pond

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.
Uncanny Japan logo with a traveler carrying a his wares.

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.
Uncanny Japan logo with Fudomyo deity illustration

Bodhidharma Zazen (Ep. 163)

Learn about an ancient blue-eyed Buddhist monk, modern Zen meditation, legendary tales, supernatural feats, and tips for beginning your own meditation practice.

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?
An animated elderly woman in a purple outfit runs alongside a speeding gray car, with vibrant trees blurred in the background. The text 'Turbo Granny Ep. 161' is displayed in a playful font.

Story Time: “Go-Away Monkey” (Ep. 159)

Okappa, a young woman living in a town ravaged by disease, encounters a traveling performer, Hanshiro, and his monkey, Fukumimi.
monkey wearing kimono wearing chain on ankle, large tengu mask
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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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