Articles about Folklore

Kevin Henrique · Jan 15, 2018

A tiny cloth doll that asks the sky for sunshine in Japan — and a children's song with a surprisingly grim ending.

Kevin Henrique · Jan 15, 2017

A woodland canid, a yokai that borrows kettles, and the smiling statue outside the izakaya.

Kevin Henrique · Jan 15, 2017

The red tumbler that stares until you finish what you promised

Kevin Henrique · Feb 22, 2016

The paper umbrella that hops on one geta — a yōkai more famous in pictures than in local legends

Kevin Henrique · Jan 15, 2016

Death spirits of Japanese legend, village warnings, and the anime versions that made 死神 famous worldwide.

Kevin Henrique · Jan 15, 2016

Short pom-pom tail, calico luck, and a talkative companion from Japanese art to modern homes.

Kevin Henrique · Jan 15, 2016

From hidden spirits and hell wardens to Setsubun masks and modern anime — the many faces of the Japanese oni.

Kevin Henrique · Jan 15, 2016

Prove your guts on a hot Japanese night—and know when the dare should stop.

Kevin Henrique · Jan 15, 2016

From Hanako-san’s third stall to Aka Manto’s deadly choice — the toilet folklore Japan never stopped telling.

Kevin Henrique · Jan 15, 2015

Japan's folklore is full of strange, scary and fascinating figures.