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The oldest and strongest emotion of mankind is fear, and the oldest and strongest kind of fear is fear of the unknown.

— H.P. Lovecraft

Folklore & History

Japanese Folklore

Japanese Folk Lore - Ghost of the Violet Well

In the wild province of Yamato, or very near to its borders, is a beautiful mountain known as Yoshino yama. It is not only known…

Aug 6, 2020
Japanese Folklore

Hannya - 般若 -はんにゃ

In Japanese folklore the female demon (oni) Hannya figures prominently. Often depicted in traditional Noh and Bunraku plays using a wooden mask of a fierce and grimacing horned demon, this malicious…

Jul 22, 2020
Japanese Folklore

The Vampire Cat of Nabeshima - Old Tales of Japan

Just when you thought it was safe to pet the kitty!!Here's a classic Japanese tale dating back to the Hizen daimyo of the Sengoku Era (1568-1615). It…

Jul 22, 2020
Japanese History

Shotoku's Seventeen-Article Constitution - Jushichijo Kenpo

Of all the names within early Japanese history, Prince Shotoku (574-622) shines far more brightly than any of the rest. He was the offspring of…

Jul 22, 2020
Japanese Folklore

Kwaidan - Yuki-Onna (Snow Woman)

The sad and haunting tale of Yuki Onna consists of all the requisite elements of a truly classic traditional ghost story. The ferocity of the Yuki Onna who can…

Jul 22, 2020
Japanese Folklore

Kaidan: Traditional Japanese Ghost Tales and Japanese Horror Film

This article was originally published in Otaku Magazine, volume 4, July 2008.Fans of contemporary Japanese horror, whether in film or manga, have likely run across…

Jul 22, 2020

About SaruDama

SaruDama is a passion project dedicated to Japanese horror cinema, folklore, and dark cultural history. We review the most haunting films, uncover ancient legends, and explore the traditions that continue to terrify audiences worldwide.

Supported by Gamblino Japan-101
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