Supernatural Japan

Send a text In this mini-episode, we’re stepping into the world of tsukumogami in Japan, a household object that has come to life after a hundred years! Our focus? The ever-charming and mischievous Karakasa-obake, or as some call it, the umbrella yokai." Yokai are a big part of Japanese folklore and mythology, and you will learn about one of the cuter members of the yokai pantheon.  Support the po...

Send a text In this episode of Supernatural Japan, we plunge into the freezing waters of the Antarctic to uncover the mystery of a cryptid that has left internet users and conspiracy theorists questioning reality. Is there something massive, pale, and human-like lurking beneath the waves? This is the legend of the Ningen (ニンゲン). A Japanese paranormal mystery far away from Japan!  Support the p...

Send a text In this episode, we look at Osorezan 恐山, or Mount Fear, as it’s ominously known. Located at the northern tip of Honshu, Osorezan is more than just a mountain. It’s believed to be one of Japan’s entrances to the underworld—a sacred, haunted land where souls pass on… or linger. The Supernatural Japan Podcast uncovers Osorezan’s history, religious significance, eerie legends, and linger...

Send a text In this chilling episode of Supernatural Japan, we explore the haunting true story of the Hakkōda Mountains Incident, where 199 Japanese soldiers perished in a deadly blizzard during a 1902 military exercise. As we recount the tragic march and the soldiers’ struggle against freezing temperatures and disorientation, we delve into eerie reports of ghostly figures, phantom footsteps, and...

Send a text Today, we’re diving into the world of lucky animals—creatures believed to bring fortune, protection, and prosperity in Japanese culture. From the wise owl to the mystical fox, these animals are more than just symbols; they are deeply woven into Shinto and Buddhist beliefs, folklore, and even modern superstitions. In this episode, we will focus on the Swallow or Tsubame and the Owl, Fuk...

Send a text Teke Teke テケテケ is a Japanese urban legend about the ghost of a Japanese school girl hunting those she can find. She was hit by a train and severed in half. She became an onryo, or a vengeful spirit. She lurks in urban areas and roams train stations at night. Since she no longer has a lower body, she travels on her hands, dragging her upper torso and making a scratching or "teke tek...

Send a text The story of Oiran Buchi, also known as "The Courtesan’s Bridge," is a chilling legend from Japan, specifically associated with a region in Yamanashi Prefecture. However, its eerie reputation has reached far and wide, including being recounted in places like Sapporo. The tale is a haunting reminder of betrayal, greed, and tragedy.  Support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/busankev...

Send a text In this episode of the Supernatural Japan Podcast, we explore the mystical Awashima Shrine in Wakayama, Japan—a sacred site renowned for its unique connection to dolls and fertility. Known as the resting place for old or unwanted dolls, the shrine is steeped in spiritual lore and rituals to comfort these inanimate objects believed to harbor souls. Tune in as we uncover the stories and...

Send a text In this bite-sized episode, we look at the Dorotabō (泥田坊, "muddy rice field monk"), who is a type of yokai from Japanese folklore. It is believed to be the restless spirit of a farmer who, in life, worked tirelessly to cultivate and care for his rice fields. After his death, if the land is neglected or mismanaged by its new owners, the Dorotabō rises from the muddy fields to haunt t...

Send a text In this episode, we delve into the chilling Japanese urban legend of Kuchisake-ona. We explore the origins of this tale, which tells of a vengeful spirit who approaches individuals, particularly children, asking, "Am I pretty?" Depending on the response, the encounter can lead to dire consequences. This episode also examines various aspects of the legend, including its historical roots...

Send a text The Hibagon (ヒバゴン) is the Japanese equivalent of the North American Bigfoot. Many believe that it inhabits the areas around Mount Hiba in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. In this episode, we talk to Canadian author Kyle Brink. He has been researching Hibagon for many years and is based in Hiroshima Prefecture. He is the author of the book, “Hibagon: Japanese Bigfoot.” If you are a fan...

Send a text The Akaname (垢嘗め) is a yokai from Japanese folklore with a rather unique and unsettling role—it is known as the "filth licker." Its name translates to "scum licker" or "grime licker," and it is said to haunt dirty bathrooms, bathhouses, and other unclean spaces. Learn about this bizarre creature in this Supernatural Japan “mini-episode.” Learn about the folklore of Japan and stories...

Send a text Nestled in Yokoamicho Park in Tokyo, Japan, stands the Ireido Memorial Hall, a sacred space dedicated to the tens of thousands who perished in the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 as well as the Tokyo Air aids of WW2. Thousands of people died in the very location that is Yokoamicho Park in 1923.  Now, it is said to be the site of ghostly figures, mysterious smoke, cries and whispers in t...

Send a text The Tanuki, or Japanese raccoon dog, is a unique creature in Japanese culture, blending real-world zoology with centuries of rich folklore. Its mythical counterpart is a shapeshifting trickster and a symbol of good fortune in Japanese mythology. Learn more about this famous Yokai from Japan, an animal with supernatural powers and a unique sense of humor.  Follow the podcast:  Instagram...

Send a text In this episode, we examine the well-known and terrifying tale of the Inunaki Village in Fukuoka, Prefecture in Japan. Was there a mysterious village locked in time where its residents terrorize any unfortunate soul who stumbles across it? Tales of murder, kidnapping, zombie-like people, and more are packed into this story. We look at the famous Japanese urban legend that inspired the...

Send a text Japanese Yokai are supernatural creatures or spirits in Japanese folklore and mythology.  In this podcast episode, we look at the most iconic Japanese Yokai, the Kappa. Kappa are mischievous and sometimes dangerous, known for pulling people into rivers. Learn a little about their origins and the troubles they can cause.  Support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/busankevin LIKE and...

Send a text During the final days of World War 2, the city of Osaka suffered greatly from Allied bombing. Many industrial complexes along Osaka’s Yodo River were targeted. On one fateful day, more than a thousand factory workers, women, and children lost their lives after evacuating to Shirokiya Park during a bombing raid. It is said that to this very day, their spirits remain in that park. Suppor...

Send a text The Hachioji Castle ruins are located near Tokyo, Japan in Hachioji City. In 1590, this was the site of a brutal battle that saw the Hojo Call fall to the powerful forces of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. To avoid capture, the families of the defenders brutally took their own lives. Today, this popular tourist site is said to be one of Japan’s most haunted. If yu're interested in possibly having...

Send a text In this episode we visit the port city of Kobe, Japan. In the heart of the city, in Sannomiya, is Ikuta Shrine. It’s stood there formore than a thousand years and has gone through many changes and at times, some tragic events. Visitors to Ikuta Shrine have reported seeing the ghostly figure of a woman in white near the shrine, particularly at night. Despite the ghostly legend, Ikuta Sh...

Send a text When we think of famous cryptids, Bigfoot, Yeti, and chupacabra come to mind, but Japan has its fair share of mysterious creatures. The first recorded sightings of o mysterious sea serpent-like creature, dubbed Mossie, date back to the early 1970s. Much like Scotland’s Loch Ness Monster, Mossie is often described as a serpentine creature with humps that emerge from the deep, dark water...

Send a text In this Halloween week episode, we chat with Japan-based writer Phillip Jackson. He talks about his new books, Paranormal Japan as well as Tengu and Other Stories. Phillip shares some tales from his latest book including ones about the Gifu Poltergeist and the haunted Sendagaya Tunnel in Tokyo. Kevin and Phillip also discuss other Japanese folklore as well as some of their favorite spo...

Send a text Tokyo’s iconic Sunshine 60 Building サンシャイン60, is a landmark familiar to anyone who’s visited the city. It was once the tallest skyscraper in Asia and is still considered, by many, to be the most haunted skyscraper in the world. It was constructed on land that has a dark past. The site of many dark crimes and executions. During the day it may seem like a bustling business area and...

Send a text It’s “Spooky Season” and we’re back! The Halloween holiday has its roots in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain (SAH-win), a pagan religious celebration. It's hugely popular in America and Canada, but its popularity in Japan has grown steadily over the past few decades. From the festivals, parades and zombie chases at Tokyo Disneyland and  Universal Studios Japan, to children's Hall...

Send a text International educator and podcaster, Kevin O’Shea brings you some interesting takes on a long life living abroad in Asia. The Just Asia Podcast profiles fascinating expats living across Asia doing amazing things. He talks to people in Japan, South Korea, China, Malaysia and more. Listen to their stories and be inspired by the lives they lead.  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.co...

Send a text In Episode 9, host Kevin O’Shea takes a look at an animal that appears in Japanese mythology. Crows are fascinating creatures that exhibit high levels of intelligence. They appear in legends around the world and Japan is no exception. Crows or Karasu カラス may get a bad wrap from some, but for others, they are creatures to be revered. Support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/busa...