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Uncanny Japan

SpectreVision Radio
Japanese Folklore
Buddhism
Japan
Folklore
Japanese Culture
Superstitions
Yokai
Lafcadio Hearn
Ryomen Sukuna
Taira No Masakado
Osechi-Ryori
Shinto
Japanese Language
Oiwa
Teru Teru Bōzu
Oshogatsu
Turbo Granny
Ame-Onna
Yotsuya Kaidan
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 monthlyEpisodes192Founded9 years ago
Number of ListenersCategories
HistorySociety & Culture

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Artwork for Uncanny Japan

Latest Episodes

Have you ever heard of the nodo-hotoke, or “throat Buddha”? In everyday Japanese, it usually refers to the Adam’s apple. But after death, especially in the context of cremation, the nodo-hotoke becomes something else entirely, the actual seat of your... more

After exploring animal spirit possession last episode, Thersa turns to the Japanese ways of staying safe, getting a little lucky, and maybe even finding love through ofuda and omamori, talismans and charms filled with divine power and everyday hope. ... more

What is tsukimono? In Japanese culture, it’s the unsettling idea of possession—when a human or animal spirit attaches itself to you and usually does harm.

In this episode of Uncanny Japan, I explore animal possession: foxes, dogs, snakes, and even h... more

A vengeful princess rides a giant toad into battle while a monstrous skeleton tears through castle walls — and these two legends are connected in ways you might not expect.

In this episode, I dig into the story of Takiyasha Hime, daughter of the inf... more

Key Facts

Accepts Sponsors
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Number of Listeners
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Host

Thersa Matsuura
Host and writer/folklorist specializing in obscure Japanese folklore, culture, and history; author of The Book of Japanese Folklore; long-time resident of Japan with deep research background.

Reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars from 1k ratings
  • Relaxing

    Very interesting and relaxing podcast. I like learning more from Japan folktales

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Barbuski
    Canada22 days ago
  • Love this podcast. Very soothing voice and GREAT content.

    I used to live near Lafcadio Hearn’s old home in Kumamoto (author of Kwaidan) and love the darker side of Japanese folklore and history. This podcast is so great to listen to in quiet times and evenings. Wishing the host all the best for navigating her life changes. Stay strong and keep putting your excellent work out there. Maybe the year of the Fire Horse might see the show go weekly.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Daveydavedave74
    United Kingdom2 months ago
  • Hey it’s kenta

    Where are you

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Goji 4x4
    Canada2 months ago
  • Hey it’s kenta

    The best way to make a podcast is by using the right tool to create the best content. its you!!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Goji 4x4
    Canada3 months ago
  • Too bad for the ads

    I’ve always loved this show, but the ads ruin it for me :( I’m going back and re-listening to the older episodes. EDIT: Soooo the old videos now have ads too :( I’m sad again

    Apple Podcasts
    2
    idontusuallywritereveiws
    United States4 months ago

Listeners Say

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

Calming, immersive, and richly researched; the host's voice and sound design create a soothing, immersive listening experience.
Listeners appreciate deep dives into folklore and history, often mentioning the calming delivery and high production quality.
Ads and pacing are a common point of critique for some listeners, but many still praise the content when not interrupted by sponsorships.

Chart Rankings

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

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
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Location
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Frequently Asked Questions About Uncanny Japan

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

This show explores obscure corners of Japanese history, folklore, and cultural curiosities through immersive sound design and soothing narration. Across episodes, the host weaves personal experience with deep dives into myths, spirits, haunted places, and seasonal traditions, often linking ancient beliefs to modern life. The format emphasizes atmospheric storytelling, historical context, and a calm, contemplative tone that makes folklore approachable for curious listeners who enjoy culturally rich narratives and aural immersion. A standout aspect is the host's dual role as writer and folklorist, which brings both narrative flair and scholarly context, along with frequent references to classical texts and traditional practices.

Listeners of... more

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Which podcasts are similar to Uncanny Japan?

These podcasts share a similar audience with Uncanny Japan:

1. Supernatural Japan
2. Lore
3. Unexplained
4. After Dark: Myths, Misdeeds & the Paranormal
5. Dark Histories

How many episodes of Uncanny Japan are there?

Uncanny Japan launched 9 years ago and published 192 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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