This content is a collection of Japanese ghost stories from modern periods and cultures.
Some of these stories are well-known, some are not. If anything, the collection contains many modern ghost stories.
But basically, anyone can enjoy the horror of Japanese ghost stories. It is sure to be an interesting read for both children and adults.
What Is Modern KAIDAN?
"Kaidan" (怪談) in Japanese refers to traditional ghost stories or horror tales. The term itself is made of two kanji characters: 怪 (kai) meaning "mysterious" or "strange," and 談 (dan) meaning "talk" or "tale." So, you can think of it as "mysterious tales" or "strange stories."
About the Stories
A Brief History of Kaidan
These stories have been part of Japanese folklore for centuries, often passed down through generations. They are commonly set in the Edo period (1603-1868), a time when people believed deeply in the supernatural world. The stories are diverse and may feature various supernatural beings such as yurei (ghosts), yokai (monsters or spirits), and oni (demons).
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Why we need it?
They can serve various purposes. Some Kaidan are meant to teach moral lessons, while others might have been told to chill the spine during the hot summer months as it's believed that being scared can cool you down.
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The History
A well-known example of a Kaidan is the 'Yotsuya Kaidan' from the Edo period. This is the tale of a woman named Oiwa who was betrayed and murdered by her husband. However, she returns as a ghost to exact revenge.
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Culture
Remember, while Kaidan can be spooky and full of eerie elements, they are also an important part of Japanese culture, reflecting historical beliefs, moral teachings, and the creativity of the Japanese people in storytelling.
