Japan Earthquake, Mt. Fuji Mysteries, Evil Dragons & Dog Man Legends

Earthquakes hit central Japan on New Year’s Day 2024. As the world continues to pray for the Japanese people, Edge of Wonder decided to honor the rich cultural history of legends and supernatural events that go far back into Japan’s past. From cryptids like the evil dragon of Lake Ashinoko to mysterious encounters on Mt. Fuji, from myths and monsters to traditional folklore, there’s a lot to be amazed about when it comes to the island nation. Join Ben and Rob as they discuss the Colonel Sanders Curse, whether “dog men” have been spotted in Japan, and the true history of geisha performers that western societies have misunderstood. Let’s highlight all the positive, strange, and interesting facts most foreigners never knew about Japanese history.

In this episode: Intense weather is definitely part of Japan’s history—and so are their legends. Have you ever heard of the Colonel Sanders Curse? Why is Kentucky Fried Chicken wielding power over the Japanese people? Legends and stories are deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, but their deep traditions also go far back into history. Just take the geisha performers, who you might not know rub elbows with some of the most elite members of society. Dive deeper into some of the country’s strangest legends. Mt. Fuji, for one, is one of the most interesting places on Earth, with stories of a fire goddess, a suicide forest (Aokigahara, or the Sea of Trees), hauntings, and more that will really make you wonder what’s going on near that famous volcano.