“More than any other city, Tokyo demonstrates that 'city' is a verb and not a noun.” – Toshiko Mori, 2020 (architect, quote from a lecture at Harvard University)

“If Japan is enigmatic, then Tokyo is the heart of that riddle, its rhythm and essence so utterly alluring that it demands to be explored.” – Michael Ryan, 2018 (writer and traveler, quote from the book "Tokyo: The Heart of the Enigma")

 

 

Tokyo – Fertile Ground for New Legends

 

Tokyo, with its impressive skyline, constant motion, and rich history, is a city that harbors countless secrets. As befitting such a large city, it possesses its own distinct folklore and mythology. Often passed down orally or through social media, Tokyo's urban myths have become an integral part of the urban landscape.

 

Tokyo is layers of history and modernity stacked upon one another, creating a highly inspiring environment for fantastical stories. Underground, there are extensive systems of tunnels and shelters built during the Cold War, which still exist in the urban consciousness. Shibuya, the world's busiest intersection, is crossed by hundreds of thousands of people every single day. However, legends persist that beneath this bustling, wildly alive city lies another underground city, inhabited by a community entirely isolated from the modern world. In the Tokyo district of Ginza, there is the Mitsukoshi store, which, according to urban legends, has a secret floor accessible only to the wealthiest clients, where the rarest goods from around the world are sold. Another example is Odaiba, an artificial island that was once a military fortress and is now a futuristic entertainment center, which has also become the source of numerous urban tales.

 

Often without realizing it, when watching a Japanese film or anime or reading manga, we are engaging with what originated as an urban myth in Tokyo, described as “an origami city, folded over and over until something was made of virtually nothing” (Christopher Barzak). Although the topic is vast, and Tokyo's legends could be numbered in the dozens or even hundreds, below I propose examining a selected ten – the most common or otherwise the most interesting.

 

List of discussed myths:

1. Kisaragi Station

2. Sunshine 60

3. Hachiko's Ghost

4. Teke Teke

5. Aka Manto

6. Tokyo Tower Ghost

7. Benzaiten's Curse in Inokashira Park

8. Aoyama Cemetery

9. Oiwa's Curse

10. Shirokiya Department Store Fire

 

 

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Kisaragi Station (如月駅)

Mysterious Lost Station

 

Location: Kisaragi Station is said to appear on the suburban train lines in Tokyo.

 

Myth Description

Kisaragi Station is a fictional train station that has become a popular urban legend in Japan. The story began on the Japanese internet forum 2channel in 2004, where a user with the pseudonym "Hasumi" described their experience traveling by train. It was a usual commuting route, but for some reason, that day the train stopped at no other stations. When it finally did stop – it was at a station named "Kisaragi," which was not on any map. Upon disembarking at the station, Hasumi discovered that the place was deserted, quiet, strange…. They tried unsuccessfully to find their way back, describing strange phenomena and a lack of contact with the outside world.

 

As the story developed, Hasumi became increasingly anxious, describing more and more disturbing events on the forum, such as encounters with very strange strangers and the inability to return to the normal world. The story ended abruptly when Hasumi stopped responding to messages, leaving forum users uncertain about their fate. The tale became a legend, and Kisaragi Station a symbol of lost places and mysterious journeys.

 

History and Significance

The legend of Kisaragi Station originates from a single post on the 2channel forum, which went viral first there, then on Twitter. The story attracted attention due to its mysteriousness and elements of horror, reflecting fears related to the unknown. The name "Kisaragi" (如月) literally means "February" in the traditional Japanese calendar.

 

Kisaragi Station has become a symbol of lost places and unexplored mysteries, gaining popularity not only in Japan but around the world. The story has inspired many other urban legends and horror stories, reminding us how easily one can get lost in a world that seems familiar.

 

In Pop Culture

The myth of Kisaragi Station appears in various forms in Japanese pop culture. In the video game "Kisaragi Station" (2020), players must uncover the secrets of the abandoned station and find their way back to reality, using narrative elements from the original legend.

The anime "Jujutsu Kaisen" (2020) references Kisaragi Station through mysterious places where the protagonists encounter supernatural phenomena. The manga "Kowabon" (2015) by Studio ILCA also uses themes of urban legends and mysterious places, reminiscent of the atmosphere of Kisaragi Station.

 

The film "Kisaragi Station" from 2022, directed by Jirô Nagae, tells a story based on this legend. The main character, Haruna Tsunematsu, played by Yuri Tsunematsu, is a folklore student who decides to make the legend of Kisaragi Station the subject of her thesis. Haruna embarks on a quest for truth, leading her to uncover dark and disturbing secrets related to the station. The film immerses viewers in an atmosphere of mystery and horror, using narrative elements known from the original internet legend. As Haruna delves into her research, she begins to experience strange and supernatural phenomena, making her journey increasingly dangerous and unpredictable.

 

"Kisaragi Station" from 2022 gained popularity, especially in areas near Hamamatsu, and also attracted attention thanks to a promotion in which Enshū Railways temporarily renamed Saginomiya Station to Kisaragi Station. This is why some people today believe that Kisaragi is actually Saginomiya.

 

 

 

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Teke Teke (テケテケ)

Girl Cut Half

 

Location: Subway stations and tunnels, less frequently: railway stations. Especially Akasaka-Mitsuke subway station, and sometimes Shibuya.

 

Myth Description

Teke Teke is a Japanese urban legend about the ghost of a girl who died under tragic circumstances. According to the tale, the girl was cut in half by an oncoming train, causing her to now haunt the areas around railway tracks, moving on her hands. Her name comes from the sound she makes while moving – "teke teke" (a Japanese onomatopoeia similar to the Polish "stuk stuk" or "szuru szuru").

 

The ghost appears unexpectedly, usually at night, and attacks her victims with a razor-sharp katana or claws, cutting them in half. It is said that those who see Teke Teke have only a few seconds to escape before the ghost reaches them with her deadly weapon. The terrifying part is that even if they escape, Teke Teke will reappear sooner or later to finish her task.

 

History and Significance

The legend of Teke Teke originates from Japanese folklore (she is a type of onryo – a vengeful spirit seeking revenge on the living), but its popularity increased in the 1960s and 1970s. This urban legend reflects deep fears related to social changes and urbanization in Japan. As the country modernized and expanded its infrastructure, such as railways, concerns about safety and death in railway accidents became more common. The etymology of the name "Teke Teke" is simple – it comes from the sound "teke teke," meant to mimic the noise made by the legless ghost moving. This onomatopoeic name further amplifies the fear, as the sound can be imagined as something approaching in the dark, something that cannot be easily seen but can be heard.

 

In Pop Culture

The myth of Teke Teke has appeared in various forms in Japanese pop culture, gaining popularity in both films and literature. An example is the film "Teke Teke" (2009) directed by Kōji Shiraishi, which tells the story of a group of students haunted by the ghost. The film adds new twists to the legend, showing how the ghost seeks revenge on the youth – viewers witness a series of brutal deaths.

 

Another example is the manga "Gakkou no Kaidan" (1995) by Toru Tsunemitsu, where Teke Teke appears as one of the ghosts haunting the school. In this adaptation, the ghost serves as a warning to students about risky places and improper behavior, which is typical for the educational aspects of urban legends.

 

The myth of Teke Teke also inspired characters in video games, such as "Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly" (2003), where she appears as one of many phenomena. In the game, the ghost haunts the protagonists, Mio and Mayu Amakura, as they explore a haunted village. Teke Teke, as in the legend, moves on her hands, seeking her victims.

Aka Manto [赤マント]

Ghost haunting toilets

 

Location: Toilets in schools in Tokyo (e.g., in Suginami ward) and, less frequently, public toilets, especially in older, less frequented buildings.

 

Myth Description

Aka Manto, which literally means "Red Cape," is a ghost that haunts school toilets, especially those that are rarely used or located at the end of corridors. According to the legend, this ghost appears in the last stall and asks its victims a question: "Do you want a red cape or a blue cape?" Depending on the answer, the victim meets different, usually tragic, fates. Choosing the red cape means having your throat brutally slashed (the blood soaking the victim's body makes it look like they are wearing a red cape). Choosing the blue cape results in strangulation, causing the victim's face to turn blue.

 

Some say the ghost offers other colors as well, but every answer leads to death. The only way to avoid this tragic fate is to refuse to make a decision or quickly escape from the toilet, which is not always possible. Aka Manto is often described as a man in a red cape, sometimes wearing a mask.

 

 

History and Significance

The legend of Aka Manto first appeared in the 1930s and gained popularity in Japanese schools, becoming part of school tales and scare stories. There are various versions of this story, but all share the common element of choosing between two deadly options.

The name "Aka Manto" (赤マント) consists of the kanji "aka" (赤) meaning "red" and "manto" (マント), a loanword from Spanish or Portuguese meaning "cape." This combination suggests both the color and the attire of the ghost.

 

In Pop Culture

In the film "Toire no Hanako-san" (1995) directed by Jōji Iida, Aka Manto is one of the ghosts haunting the school. He appears in several scenes, including one where the schoolgirls are in the toilet, the lights suddenly go out, revealing his terrifying silhouette. In another scene, the characters hear a mysterious voice coming from the last stall, and when they open the door, they see Aka Manto in a red cape, who asks them his question.

 

Another example is the video game "Akai Manto" (2019) created by Chilla's Art, in which the player takes on the role of a schoolgirl who must escape from the school haunted by Aka Manto. In the game, the ghost is depicted as a relentless pursuer who appears at random moments, forcing the player to make quick decisions and hide. The game adds new twists to the legend, showing different ways the ghost can attack and incorporating puzzle elements related to avoiding encounters with him.

 

 

 

Tokyo Tower Ghost [東京タワーの幽霊]

Ghost haunting Tokyo Tower

 

Location: Tokyo Tower is a television and observation tower located in the Minato ward of central Tokyo, between Shiba and Zojoji parks, near Akabanebashi metro station.

 

Myth Description

Tokyo Tower, one of the most recognizable structures in Japan's capital, is not only a tourist attraction but also the site of numerous ghost stories. According to the legend, the ghost appears most often on the higher floors of the tower, where tourists and workers have reported hearing strange sounds and seeing unexplained apparitions. The ghost is often described as a figure dressed in old-fashioned clothes, appearing and disappearing in the blink of an eye.

 

Some accounts say that the ghost is the spirit of a worker who died during the tower's construction. Other stories suggest it might be the ghost of someone who jumped from the tower. Regardless of its identity, the ghost brings with it a sense of melancholy and sadness, and its presence often evokes strong emotions in witnesses. Another myth about Tokyo Tower, which is probably not related to the ghost legend, says that if the light goes out exactly at midnight, a couple who is on the tower admiring the cityscape below will either live happily ever after or meet a sudden and tragic death (two versions of the legend).

 

History and Significance

Tokyo Tower was completed in 1958 and has since become a symbol of post-war Japan's revival. Standing 333 meters tall, the tower attracts millions of tourists annually who admire the cityscape. The construction of the tower was a massive undertaking and, like many large construction projects, there are rumors of fatal accidents among the workers. These stories quickly gained popularity and became part of urban folklore.

 

The etymology of the name is straightforward: "Tokyo Tower" (東京タワー) combines "Tokyo" (東京 - "Eastern Capital") and "Tower" (タワー), a loanword from English meaning "tower." The second part, "Yūrei" (幽霊), is the Japanese word for ghost or apparition, consisting of the kanji "yū" (幽) meaning "mysterious" or "dim" and "rei" (霊) meaning "spirit."

 

In Pop Culture

The myth of the Tokyo Tower Ghost appears in various forms in Japanese pop culture, although not always directly. Tokyo Tower is a backdrop in many films, manga, and anime.

The tower often serves as a setting for many horror and fantasy works in manga and anime. Examples include "Tokyo Babylon" (1991-1994) and "X/1999" (1992-2003) by Clamp, where the tower is the site of supernatural events, "Digimon Adventure" (1999), where the tower becomes a battleground against a monster, and "Shin Godzilla" (2016), where it is destroyed during Godzilla's attack. Other examples include "Tokyo Magnitude 8.0" (2009), where the tower is destroyed by an earthquake, and "Cardcaptor Sakura" (1998-2000), where Tokyo Tower is the site of many important events and battles with magical cards. The presence of the tower as a significant element of the urban landscape ensures that its legend lives on in the imagination of viewers.

 

 

 

Benzaiten's Curse in Inokashira Park [井の頭公園の弁財天の呪い]

Curse of the Goddess Benzaiten

 

Location: Benzaiten's Curse is said to affect Inokashira Park, located in the Musashino ward of Tokyo.

 

Myth Description

According to the story, couples who visit the park and pray to the goddess Benzaiten often experience breakups. Benzaiten, the goddess of music, art, and love, is said to be jealous of the happiness of couples, leading to the dissolution of their relationships. The park features a shrine dedicated to Benzaiten, and nearby is a picturesque lake where couples often go boating.

 

The legend says that Benzaiten, jealous of the love and happiness of visitors, casts a curse on them that causes conflicts and eventually breakups. This story makes many couples avoid visiting the park together, fearing that their relationship might be cursed. Benzaiten's Curse is strongly linked to local folklore and traditions, adding a mystical charm to this popular recreation spot.

 

History and Significance

Benzaiten's Curse has its roots in traditional Japanese beliefs about the goddess Benzaiten, one of the Seven Lucky Gods (Shichifukujin). Benzaiten is often depicted as a beautiful woman playing a biwa (a traditional Japanese stringed instrument), symbolizing her connection to music and art. Her shrines are found in many places in Japan, but the one in Inokashira Park is particularly famous because of the curse legend.

 

The name "Benzaiten" (弁財天) consists of the kanji "ben" (弁) meaning "eloquence," "zai" (財) meaning "wealth," and "ten" (天) meaning "heaven" or "goddess." Inokashira Park (井の頭公園) is a popular spot among Tokyo residents, offering tranquility and natural beauty in the heart of the city. Benzaiten's Curse adds an element of mystery to the park, influencing how people perceive the park and its shrine.

 

In Pop Culture

Benzaiten's Curse in Inokashira Park appears in various forms in Japanese pop culture, although often indirectly. In the anime "Great Teacher Onizuka" (1999-2000), Inokashira Park appears as a place where characters meet and experience various events.

 

The goddess Benzaiten appears in various forms in Japanese pop culture: in the anime "Naruto" (2002-2017), Benzaiten is inspired by the character Shion, a priestess with special powers who has some traits related to the goddess. The manga "Noragami" (2010-present) by Adachitoka features Benzaiten as one of many gods interacting with humans. In the film "Benten-sama no Nageki" (1962), Benzaiten is a central character whose cult and associated rituals are crucial to the plot. In such representations, Benzaiten is portrayed as an influential and mysterious goddess playing an important role in the lives of the characters and the storyline.

Sunshine 60 [サンシャイン60]

Haunted Skyscraper

 

Location: The Sunshine 60 skyscraper is located in the Ikebukuro district of Tokyo, within the Sunshine City complex.

 

Myth Description:

Sunshine 60 is an impressive skyscraper in the Sunshine City complex, known for its ghost stories and haunted houses. The building, once the tallest skyscraper in Asia, is said to have a terrifying history—it was built on the site of the former Sugamo Prison, where many war criminals were executed after World War II. Legend has it that the ghosts of these executed prisoners now haunt the skyscraper, especially at night, when strange sounds and unexplained phenomena occur.

 

Employees and visitors to Sunshine 60 claim to have heard inexplicable noises, seen apparitions, and felt sudden drops in temperature on certain floors of the building. The most terrifying stories involve ghosts appearing in the elevators, where people suddenly see reflections of figures in the mirrored walls, even though they are alone. These tales make some people avoid visiting the skyscraper after dark, fearing encounters with the haunting spirits.

History and Significance:

Sunshine 60 was completed in 1978 and for a time was the tallest building in Asia, with 60 floors. Its impressive height and modern architecture became symbols of Japan's technological progress. However, its past as the site of the former Sugamo Prison introduces an element of mystery and horror. The prison was known for executing many war criminals.

 

The name "Sunshine 60" (サンシャイン60) is a straightforward transliteration into katakana of the English word "sunshine" and the number 60, referring to the number of floors in the building. Despite its name, which evokes brightness and modernity, the building harbors dark stories that affect its perception among residents and tourists.

 

In Pop Culture:

The myth of Sunshine 60 appears in various forms in Japanese pop culture. In the anime "Durarara!!" (2010), Sunshine 60 is one of the key locations where many mysterious and supernatural events occur, highlighting its significance as a Tokyo icon. In the film "Gantz" (2011) directed by Shinsuke Sato, the Sunshine 60 skyscraper also plays an important role as the site of dramatic events and battles.

 

The manga "Ikebukuro West Gate Park" (2001) by Ira Ishida also features Sunshine 60 as a central point in the plot, where characters meet and experience various events, both realistic and supernatural. Through such representations, the legend of the haunted Sunshine 60 skyscraper lives in the imagination of viewers and readers, adding an extra layer of mystery to this well-known building.

 

 

 

Ghosts of Aoyama Cemetery [青山霊園の幽霊]

Haunted Graveyard

 

Location: Aoyama Cemetery is located in the Minato ward, in central Tokyo.

 

Myth Description:

Aoyama Cemetery, one of the oldest and most famous burial places in Tokyo, is the site of numerous ghost stories. According to legends, the spirits of the deceased who have not found peace haunt the cemetery, appearing particularly at night. Many witnesses claim to have seen apparitions floating above the graves, heard unexplained whispers and footsteps, and felt sudden changes in temperature while walking among the graves.

 

One of the most famous stories involves the ghost of a woman in a white kimono, who is said to appear at night, searching for her lost child. There are also stories of the ghosts of suicides haunting the cemetery, especially around the graves of famous historical figures. These tales make Aoyama Cemetery, although beautiful and peaceful by day, a place of fear after dark.

 

History and Significance:

Aoyama Cemetery was established in 1872 and is one of the first modern cemeteries in Japan. It is the final resting place for many important historical figures, politicians, artists, and foreigners, making it a significant place from a cultural and historical perspective. The history of the cemetery, combined with Japanese beliefs about ghosts (yūrei), creates a rich context for numerous stories.

 

The name "Aoyama" (青山) consists of the kanji "ao" (青) meaning "blue" or "green" and "yama" (山) meaning "mountain." "Reien" (霊園) means "cemetery" or "memorial park." This name was given by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, in honor of Haruhito Aoyama, one of his vassals who was granted this land. The word "ao" (青) (in this case, more likely green) may refer to the lush vegetation covering the area and the mystical properties attributed to the mountain in ancient times.

 

In Pop Culture:

The myth of ghosts in Aoyama Cemetery appears in various forms in Japanese pop culture. In the "Shin Megami Tensei" (Persona) game series, particularly in the third installment (2006), Aoyama Cemetery is a place where the protagonists must face ghosts and demons haunting the area. The game uses the cemetery's dark atmosphere to introduce supernatural and dramatic elements.

 

In the anime and manga "Jujutsu Kaisen" (2018-present) by Gege Akutami, Aoyama Cemetery is one of the locations where the characters fight cursed spirits. In the episodes related to the cemetery, Yuji Itadori and his companions must confront powerful curses.

Another example is the manga "Tokyo Babylon" (1991-1994) by Clamp, which often deals with supernatural themes and ghosts. In this series, cemeteries, including Aoyama, are places where the protagonists battle supernatural forces, adding depth and a dark atmosphere to the storyline.

 

 

 

Oiwa Shrine Curse [お岩の呪い]

Revenge of a Wronged Woman

 

Location: The Oiwa Shrine is located in the Yotsuya district of Tokyo, near the Myogyo-ji temple.

 

Myth Description:

The curse of the Oiwa Shrine is associated with the spirit of Oiwa, a figure from the Japanese revenge legend (Yotsuya Kaidan – we write about it here: ……………………………………. ). According to the story, Oiwa was betrayed and murdered (her face painfully disfigured) by her husband, Tamiya Iemon, a samurai who wanted to marry another woman. After Oiwa's death, her spirit began to haunt her husband and his new wife, driving them to madness and death. Oiwa's ghost is known for her terrifying, deformed face, which appears in mirrors and dark corners.

 

People believe that Oiwa's spirit is linked to the shrine in Yotsuya, and those who do not show her respect may be cursed. The curse includes misfortunes and bad luck that befall those who disregard the shrine or treat Oiwa's story with disrespect.

 

History and Significance:

The legend of Oiwa dates back to the 18th century and was popularized by the kabuki play "Yotsuya Kaidan" written by Tsuruya Nanboku IV in 1825. This story quickly became one of the most famous Japanese ghost tales, frequently adapted into various media forms. Oiwa is considered a classic example of an onryo, or vengeful spirit, who returns to seek revenge for the wrongs done to them.

 

The name "Oiwasan" (お岩さん) comes from the name "Oiwa" (お岩), where "o" (お) is an honorific prefix, and "iwa" (岩) means "rock" or "crag," which may symbolize the permanence of her revenge. The shrine in Yotsuya is a place where people offer prayers and make offerings to seek forgiveness and avoid her wrath.

 

In Pop Culture:

The myth of Oiwa appears in many forms in Japanese pop culture. The film "Kwaidan" (1964) directed by Masaki Kobayashi includes a segment based on the legend of Oiwa, depicting her tragic story and revenge. The anime "Ayakashi: Samurai Horror Tales" (2006) adapts the classic "Yotsuya Kaidan" story, presenting Oiwa's ghost in a modern form.

 

The manga "Oiwa-san" (1993) by Masaya Hokazono also invokes the character of Oiwa, expanding her story in a contemporary context. Through such portrayals, the legend of Oiwa and her curse remains alive in Japanese culture, inspiring new generations of creators and horror enthusiasts.

 

 

 

Ghost of Hachiko [ハチ公の幽霊]

The Loyal Dog Hachiko

 

Location: The ghost of Hachiko is said to appear near Shibuya Station in Tokyo, where his statue also stands.

 

Myth Description:

The legend of the ghost of Hachiko tells the story of a loyal Akita dog who waited every day for his deceased owner at Shibuya Station. After Hachiko's death in 1935, his ghost reportedly continues to appear around the station, especially in places where the dog used to wait for his master. A statue of Hachiko was erected in the spot where his apparition was most frequently seen.

 

Witnesses claim that Hachiko's ghost is seen as calm and loyal, bringing feelings of nostalgia and sadness. He appears especially at night, when the area is less crowded. Some people say that the ghost of Hachiko sometimes guides lost passengers to their destination, emphasizing his eternal loyalty and helpfulness.

 

History and Significance:

Hachiko, a dog born on November 10, 1923, in Akita, was taken in by Professor Hidesaburō Ueno, who commuted daily to work from Shibuya. After Ueno's sudden death in 1925, Hachiko continued to wait for his master at Shibuya Station every day for the next 9 years and 9 months. His loyalty attracted the attention of passengers and the press, making him a national symbol of fidelity. The statue of Hachiko at Shibuya Station symbolizes unwavering loyalty and dedication. Hachiko died on March 8, 1935, and his story continues to inspire and serve as an example of loyalty worldwide.

 

The name "Hachiko" (ハチ公) consists of "Hachi" (ハチ), meaning "eight" (from the number of puppies in his litter), and "ko" (公), which is a titular suffix. The statue of Hachiko is one of the most recognizable attractions in Tokyo, and his story is commemorated in both literature and films, reminding people of the values of loyalty and devotion.

 

In Pop Culture:

The myth of Hachiko's ghost appears in various forms in Japanese pop culture. The film "Hachiko Monogatari" (1987), directed by Seijirō Kōyama, portrays the story of the loyal dog in a touching manner, depicting his life and loyalty.

 

In the anime "Shibuya Hachiko-mae" (2003), the ghost of Hachiko appears as a protective figure, helping the characters in difficult moments. The manga "Nana" by Ai Yazawa also references the statue of Hachiko as a meeting place for the main characters, highlighting its significance as an important spot on the map of Tokyo.

 

 

 

Shirokiya Department Store Fire [白木屋の火災]

Tragic Fire and Its Aftermath

 

Location: The Shirokiya Department Store was located in the Nihonbashi district of Tokyo.

 

Myth Description:

The Shirokiya Department Store fire is one of the most tragic and memorable disasters in Tokyo's 20th-century history. On December 16, 1932, a massive fire broke out in the popular Shirokiya Department Store, causing significant damage and many fatalities. The store was prepared for Christmas, and a spark from the decorative lights on one of the trees ignited the flammable, plastic toys, causing a rapid spread of the fire. According to legend, this tragic story includes a detail about the store's female employees. The women working there, dressed in traditional kimonos, were reportedly reluctant to jump from the windows to lower floors because they feared their kimonos would flap open, exposing their underwear, which was considered a great disgrace.

 

As a result of these concerns, many women are said to have perished, choosing not to jump. This story is often cited as an example of the cultural norms and pressures of that time. Although the true reasons for the high number of casualties are more complex, the legend of women who chose death over humiliation has become part of the urban folklore.

 

History and Significance:

The Shirokiya Department Store fire occurred on December 16, 1932. This disaster resulted in the deaths of 14 people, with more than 60 injured. The causes of the fire are not entirely clear, but it is known that the fire spread quickly, causing panic among customers and staff. The legend of women choosing death in the flames over jumping out of the windows due to fear of "disgrace" reflects the strict social norms and customs prevalent in Japan at that time.

The name "Shirokiya" (白木屋) comes from the store's founder. The Shirokiya Department Store was one of the major commercial landmarks in Tokyo, and its fire had a significant impact on fire safety regulations that were later implemented in Japan.

 

In Pop Culture:

The myth of the Shirokiya Department Store fire appears in various forms in Japanese pop culture. In the anime "Showa Monogatari" (2011), which depicts life in Tokyo during the Showa era, references to such events help build the atmosphere and historical context.

According to urban legend, the Shirokiya Department Store fire changed the fashion customs of Japanese women, who abandoned traditional kimonos (as traditionally, no underwear was worn beneath them).

 

 

 

Conclusion

 

Tokyo, with its fascinating history and dynamic modern character, is a place that uniquely encourages the creation and spread of new urban legends. This distinctive mix that forms the fabric of this city makes it a rich source of urban tales, continuously inspiring new generations of creators—filmmakers, game developers, and manga artists.

 

Beyond the mentioned legends, Tokyo hides many other fascinating urban myths, which I strongly encourage readers to discover. Legends, such as those about dark subway tunnels, like the one about an elevator in a Shinjuku skyscraper that stops at unplanned and mysterious floors, remind us of the richness of Tokyo's urban tales. Or the story of the woman on Kanda Bridge, crying and searching for her child. Perhaps the tale of the old school in the Adachi district, supposedly haunted by the ghost of a student who died under mysterious circumstances, where footsteps and laughter can sometimes be heard in the empty corridors. Or the myth about Hibiya Park, where the ghosts of soldiers from World War II are said to be seen, walking through the gardens and green areas, reminding us of the city's dark historical moments. In Ueno Park, where during the full moon, the ghosts of former samurai are said to walk among the trees. The list goes on.

 

Tokyo is a priceless library of human ingenuity and imagination.