Uncanny Japan - Japanese Folklore, Folktales, Myths and Language

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.

https://www.uncannyjapan.com/

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episode 136: The Dreaded Northern Pillow (kitamakura) and Fan Death


Is sleeping with your head facing north a practice that'll bring you bad luck and invite death or is it good luck, welcoming a restful night's sleep and money? [This description contains Amazon affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a...


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 November 15, 2023  20m
 
 

episode 137: A Delightful Dive into Meiji Era Yokai News


Today I’m going to do something a little different, again. I’m going to give you some real yōkai and paranormal news. Not current news, but stories that were actually published in newspapers during the late 1800s — and not in tabloids either,...


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 December 1, 2023  16m
 
 

episode 138: Shochikubai: Pine, Bamboo, Plum and Samurai Shade


Shochikubai means "pine, bamboo, plum" and are considered the three winter friends. You'll find them in New Year decorations as well as another interesting and surprising place. I'll tell more on today's show. [This description contains Amazon...


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 December 15, 2023  15m