In the West, horror is typically associated with the Halloween season, but in Japan, summer is the prime time for spooky stories. As the heat intensifies, so does the thrill of ghostly tales. Japanese television airs specials featuring supernatural phenomena and chilling stories, horror films hit the big screens, haunted houses attract thrill-seekers, and summer camps or school trips often include ghost storytelling and test-of-courage activities known as kimodameshi.
What is Kimodameshi?
Let’s start with Kimodameshi!
A Childhood Summer Tradition
Kimodameshi, or “test of courage,” is a summer event that has been enjoyed by children for generations. Whether organized by schools, local communities, or among friends, participants venture into dark and eerie locations, often accompanied by ghostly pranks set up by organizers.
When I was a child, kimodameshi was a regular part of local events. After nightfall, we would split into groups and walk around the nearby shrine. Adults were stationed along the way, setting up spooky tricks, making the experience thrilling. Some kids even cried because it was too scary! With a cemetery nearby, it felt like a truly authentic test of courage.
Visiting Haunted Places
As people grow older, some seek out haunted locations known as shinrei supotto (spiritual hotspots) for an adrenaline rush. These places, often abandoned buildings or shrines, are rumored to be inhabited by spirits and are said to bring supernatural encounters.
Shinrei supotto (haunted spots) can be found all over Japan. Classic locations include old tunnels, deserted mountains, abandoned schools, and former hospitals. However, please be careful not to enter restricted areas.
Japan’s Oldest Kimodameshi
The earliest recorded kimodameshi dates back to the Heian period, when Emperor Kazan challenged the three sons of Fujiwara no Kaneie, including Fujiwara no Michinaga, to test their courage by entering a haunted mansion believed to be inhabited by demons.
The Traditional Hyakumonogatari Kaidankai
The Samurai’s Test of Fear
One of Japan’s most iconic ghostly traditions is the Hyakumonogatari Kaidankai, or “One Hundred Ghost Stories Gathering.” During the Sengoku period, samurai used this eerie storytelling game to test their bravery.
The Edo-Era Popularization
In the Edo period, this tradition evolved into a form of entertainment. Participants would light 100 candles and tell a ghost story, extinguishing a candle after each tale. It was believed that completing all 100 stories would summon an actual spirit.
Even as adults, sharing scary stories and personal horror experiences is always exciting!
The History of Summer Kaidan Culture in Japan
Summer = Kaidan!
Since when?
I’m not sure.
Let’s read this article!
The Influence of Kabuki Theater
Ghost stories became a staple of summer entertainment in the Edo period, thanks to Kabuki theater. Plays such as Tōkaidō Yotsuya Kaidan, which tells the tragic tale of a vengeful spirit, were performed as “cooling dramas” to send shivers down audiences’ spines.
The Connection to Obon
The Obon festival, held in mid-August, is a time when spirits of the deceased are believed to return. Families honor their ancestors, but there is also a lingering belief that restless spirits and vengeful ghosts may return as well, reinforcing the association between summer and ghostly tales.
Modern-Day Summer Horror Attractions
Let’s learn about modern horror attractions!
Haunted Houses
Today, haunted houses (obakeyashiki) are a staple of summer attractions in Japan. They range from child-friendly spooky fun to intensely terrifying experiences designed for adults.
Horror Movie Nights at Home
For those who prefer to enjoy horror from the comfort of home, summer is the perfect time for horror movie marathons. Classic Japanese horror films such as The Ring or Ju-on (The Grudge) are guaranteed to bring chills.
Q&A
- QWhy is summer associated with ghost stories in Japan?
- A
Summer in Japan is linked to ghost stories due to historical traditions like Obon, when spirits are believed to return, and the popularity of Kabuki ghost plays in the Edo period. The chilling effect of fear is also thought to provide psychological relief from the summer heat.
- QWhat is the scariest ghost story in Japan?
- A
One of the most famous and terrifying ghost stories is Tōkaidō Yotsuya Kaidan, which tells the tragic tale of Oiwa, a woman betrayed and murdered by her husband, who returns as a vengeful spirit. It has been adapted into numerous plays and films over the centuries.
- QIs kimodameshi still popular today?
- A
Yes, kimodameshi remains a popular summer activity, especially among students. While traditional setups with haunted locations still exist, modern versions include themed haunted house attractions and even virtual reality horror experiences.
- QWhat are some must-watch Japanese horror movies for summer?
- A
If you want a good scare, check out classics like リング The Ringu (1998), 呪怨Ju-on (2000), 回路 Kairo (2001) and 着信アリ Chakushin ari (2004). These films showcase Japan’s unique take on psychological horror and supernatural elements.
- QWhere can I experience haunted attractions in Japan?
- A
Many theme parks in Japan offer haunted house experiences, such as Fuji-Q Highland’s Super Scary Labyrinth of Fear and Tokyo Dome City’s Onryou Zashiki. Additionally, some historical sites and abandoned places are rumored to be genuinely haunted.
Final Thouths
Summer and ghost stories go hand in hand in Japan, offering a unique cultural experience unlike any other. Whether through kimodameshi, haunted attractions, or horror films, there are countless ways to enjoy a spine-tingling summer in Japan. If you ever find yourself in Japan during the warmer months, why not immerse yourself in this thrilling tradition?
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