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Japanese Myths, Folktales, Folklore and Language

Episodes

Kanto vs Kansai: How Japanese Regional Food Differs (Ep. 167)

What happens when an entire country can't agree on how to make the same dish? In this episode I talk about one of my favorite topics - the Kanto versus Kansai divide that splits Japan right down the middle.
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)

In this episode, I'll be taking you on a journey to visit the Golden Pavilion, Kinkaku-ji. I'll tell you about its real name, lightning strikes, arson attack, and some pretty weird monk spirits that show up in photos.
Golden Pavilion reflecting in a pond

Walking in Old Japan: The Gokaidō Historical Routes (Ep. 165)

In this episode, I'll be taking you on a stroll along the walking routes of Old Edo. There were five main ones, called go-kaidō - the five Edo routes, or the five historical roads of Japan. All five started at the exact same point on the Nihonbashi Bridge in then-Edo, now Tōkyō. Today, let's learn specifically about the two longer ones that led travelers to the old capital of Kyōto, the Tōkaidō and the Nakasendō.
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 and Daruma Dolls: Zen Buddhism Origins (Ep. 163)

This episode takes you on a journey that involves supernatural balance, a touch of kung fu fighting, cringeworthy acts of concentration, a lucky toy that heals disease and helps you achieve your dreams, and will end delightfully in a moment of sheer, utter unadulterated and quite literal zen.

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

Sumo wrestlers throw salt before matches. Funeral guests receive purifying salt packets. Tiny salt pyramids guard shop entrances. In Japan, this mineral connects to a 2,000-year-old deity who protected an entire region from tsunami waves and taught the nation how to extract salt from seaweed.
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: Japanese Urban Legend of the Highway Phantom (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.
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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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