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Artwork for Uncanny Japan

Uncanny Japan

SpectreVision Radio
Japanese Folklore
Ryomen Sukuna
Buddhism
Yokai
Teru Teru Bōzu
Joya No Kane
Jujutsu Kaisen
Teke Teke
Beto Beto-San
Starbucks
Japanese Ghost Stories
Japan
Folklore
Year Of the Dragon
Nami Kozō
Abe No Seimei
Kannon
Tengu
Kappa
Taoism

Uncanny Japan is a podcast about all the more obscure corners of old Japan, from strange superstitions, cultural curiosities, to creepy creatures. Here you can discover all the lesser known gems that author Thersa Matsuura digs up while doing research for her writing. Every episode is uniquely soothing, brought to life by immersive sound design or relaxing binaural soundscapes (ocean waves, autumn... more

PublishesTwice monthlyEpisodes181Founded9 years ago
Number of ListenersCategories
HistorySociety & Culture

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Artwork for Uncanny Japan

Latest Episodes

I finally got to go on a walk again after all the oppressive August heat. I live around rice fields, mostly. There are some houses, of course, along the main road, and then every so often, a knee-high stone tower or stele. These are called kōshintō. more

Japan's summer heat is inescapable, driving people to seek relief at the beach. But what if I told you there are supernatural dangers lurking along Japan's 14,125 islands that make rip currents seem harmless?

In this episode, I share what I discover... more

Uncanny Japan is a podcast about all the more obscure corners of old Japan, from strange superstitions, cultural curiosities, to creepy creatures. Here you can discover all the lesser known gems that author Thersa Matsuura digs up while doing researc... more

So, you've died in Japan. Let me help you navigate the underworld and if we can, avoid the nastiest hells.

What does Japanese Buddhism suggest happens after death? I found these traditional afterlife concepts fascinating - there's this whole intrica... more

Key Facts

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Host

Thersa Matsuura
Thersa Matsuura is a writer, folklorist, and host who shares captivating narratives centered around Japanese folklore, culture, and history. Drawing from over thirty-five years of living in Japan, she investigates lesser-known stories, superstitions, and unique cultural practices, which she presents with soothing narration and immersive sound design.

Reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars from 968 ratings
  • I used to love the original opening

    Oh no! You’ve got rid of your lovely, original opening sound montage! I mean the one with what sounded like traditional flute and drums (you can still hear it in your nekomata episode) and you giving an introduction and saying “hey hey”. Please bring it back — it was so restful and relaxing and so evocative! Now it’s just ads and a too quiet opening with no music. Such a shame.

    Apple Podcasts
    3
    Radionoush
    United Kingdom9 days ago
  • SpectreVision Partnership Ruined The Experience

    This was a wonderful podcast! Now, since partnering with SpectreVision there are loud, obnoxious ads placed right in the middle of the story. In fact, placed while Thersa was mid-sentence in the last episode! They’re also louder than the content. This takes me right out of the story and completely ruins the experience. It feels like this is what all podcasts are coming to…pay up on patreon or be blasted with horrible ads. I’m a bit surprised Thersa would allow her work to be ruined like this. Th... more

    Apple Podcasts
    2
    olethembones
    United States23 days ago
  • I love the podcast and the book of Japanese folklore

    I have read the book

    and love it 5/5. I love the podcast 5/5. I’d love an episode about the Jinmenken, I’ve been intrested in it for a while! Thanks, Teresa you’re the best!!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    tHi$pErsoN
    United States24 days ago
  • Uncanny Japan is an incredible podcast. Thersa Matsuura productions are remarkable in their depth and breadth of both obscure and familiar Japanese mythos. Her research is as fastidious as it is fascinating, her presentation proffered with humility and humor, and her perseverance rewarding to her fortunate listeners. Thersa Matsuura rocks and Uncanny Japan rolls. Kudos.

    Podchaser
    5
    shaneskiser
    3 months ago
  • Fav podcast ever

    i truly love uncanny japan, the depth of detail thersa's creativity in her own stories and the wave of serenity her voice has all make this so special. I constantly have struggles sleeping yet this is the only podcast i can listen to and enjoy, only once the episode has ended will i fall asleep. i love japanese folklore and searched it up one night trying to find a podcast and since i've discovered this one i've subscribed to the patreon saved up to buy the audiobooks of her other works and im s... more

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Isabella Rost
    Canada4 months ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

Some find the integration of ads disruptive to the narrative flow.
The content is soothing and provides rich insights into Japanese culture and folklore.
Many express a desire for longer episodes that maintain the quality of storytelling.
Listeners identify the storytelling as immersive and well-presented, enhancing the experience.

Chart Rankings

How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.

Apple Podcasts
#102
Ukraine/Society & Culture
Apple Podcasts
#195
Austria/Society & Culture

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

The All-powerful Five Elements and You (Ep. 141)
Q: If I were an element, what element would I be?
Listeners are invited to discover their elements based on their birth year endings, dividing them into categories such as earth, fire, water, metal, and wood.
Ryomen Sukuna: Awesome Saint or Japan-Destroying Demon? (Ep. 145)
Q: Is it a fair depiction to show Sukuna as so entirely evil and unredeemable?
The episode explores Sukuna's complex character, contrasting modern interpretations of his evilness with historical legends portraying him as a benevolent figure.

Audience Metrics

Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.

Listeners per Episode
Gender Skew
Location
Interests
Professions
Age Range
Household Income
Social Media Reach

Frequently Asked Questions About Uncanny Japan

What is Uncanny Japan about and what kind of topics does it cover?

Episodes focus on Japan's rich tapestry of folklore, history, and cultural practices that many may find obscure or lesser-known. Topics range from supernatural entities, local legends, and spiritual beliefs to customs surrounding death and afterlife, emphasizing the intricate relationship between culture and folklore. The host, drawing on extensive personal experience and research, presents each topic with soothing narration enhanced by immersive soundscapes, creating a calming atmosphere that distinguishes this podcast from others. Notable themes include the impact of folklore on modern life, the beauty and horror intertwined in Japanese myths, and the celebration of unique regional customs and culinary intricacies. This podcast not only e... more

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Which podcasts are similar to Uncanny Japan?

These podcasts share a similar audience with Uncanny Japan:

1. Kowabana: 'True' Japanese scary stories from around the internet
2. History of Japan
3. Weird Studies
4. Classic Ghost Stories
5. Sightseeing Japan

How many episodes of Uncanny Japan are there?

Uncanny Japan launched 9 years ago and published 181 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

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