The Yōkai of GeGeGe no Kitarō: A Podcast on Japanese Folklore and Anime

The Yōkai of GeGeGe no Kitarō: A Podcast on Japanese Folklore and Anime

Author: CTDev August 30, 2025 Duration: 19:38

In this podcast, we take a closer look at the supernatural world of the classic anime, GeGeGe no Kitarō. We explore the concept of yōkai—the spirits and monsters of Japanese folklore—as they are presented in the series. We'll discuss their origins in traditional beliefs, how their stories were adapted by creator Shigeru Mizuki, and the ways these ancient tales are used to comment on modern society, nature, and humanity. Join us as we examine the journey of these fascinating creatures from folklore to the animated screen.



Ever wonder where the most compelling characters in your favorite stories truly come from? Kami and Canon-Anime and Manga Lore and Japanese Folklore traces the threads connecting contemporary animation and graphic novels back to their ancient origins. Each episode unpacks a specific myth, legendary creature, or historical archetype-like the cunning yokai or revered kami-and then follows its evolution directly into modern plotlines and character designs. You’ll hear specific examples from popular series, breaking down how a centuries-old folktale about a fox spirit might inform a pivotal manga arc, or how the ethos of a samurai legend echoes in a protagonist’s journey. This isn't just a surface-level comparison; it's a detailed exploration of cultural storytelling that gives these modern works their profound depth and resonance. Created by CTDev, the podcast is built for anyone who loves the rich worlds of anime and manga but has felt curious about the deeper foundations beneath them. The conversation moves seamlessly from the epic to the intimate, offering a new lens through which to appreciate both the old stories and the new. Tune in to discover the hidden mythology woven into the frames and pages you already love, and you might just find your next favorite series waiting in the past.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Kami and Canon - Anime and Manga Lore and Japanese Folklore
Podcast Episodes
The Phantom Curse of the Mibu Temple Bell [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 15:57
In this episode, we investigate the story known as "The Curse of the Mibu Temple Bell." Through our research, we discovered that this specific tale does not exist as a single, traditional Japanese legend. Instead, this p…
The Dark Origins of Issun-boshi, the One-Inch Samurai [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:33
In this episode of our podcast, we explore the famous Japanese folktale of Issun-bōshi, the One-Inch Boy. Many know this story as an inspiring tale of a tiny hero who bravely rescues a princess and becomes a full-sized s…